Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're in the market for a crib, you'll want one that meets the highest safety standards, as defined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll want to find one that's suitable for your space and budget.
Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib constructed from eco-friendly wood, a convertible crib which grows with the baby into a daybed and toddler bed, and a Delta Children crib that comes in a variety of appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is among the most important aspects of a quality crib. Whether you are shopping for your first crib or replacing one that is old, make sure the mattress and bedding meet the safety standards of the government. Avoid bumper pads and positioners, as well as other items which raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These items have been associated with SIDS and other the risk of suffocation among infants.
If you are looking to ensure the safety of your baby pick a crib that has the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals indicate that the crib was inspected by a third party and is in compliance with the highest standards of safety. Mattresses with soft surfaces can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be not more than two and three-quarter inches apart in order to prevent the infant's head getting caught between them. Also, ensure that the corner posts aren't more than 1/16 inch high to prevent a baby's clothes from catching on them.
If you're thinking of buying a used crib, be sure that it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also recommended to purchase a crib with lead-free paint. This is because teething babies can chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
Lastly, if purchasing a convertible crib make sure that the conversion kit is in line with CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to be transformed into a full-size or toddler mattress. They're not always simple to put together and may require professional installation.
In addition to these features, a good crib should have sturdy sides and slats. These are strong enough to stop the crib from crashing or shifting in the course of time. It should also have a strong enough bottom drawer to hold clothes and toys. The drawer must also be able to close and lock in a secure way so that your child is unable to pull out the contents. It should also be able support the weight of heavy blankets or quilts without sagging.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, so choosing one that fits your decor style can be a jolly task. There are a myriad of cribs available, with modern and sleek options to classic-looking models. Some cribs come with slats that are different heights, and include toddler conversion kits once your child is ready to move on. Other things to consider are the mattress's height and crib size.
Cribs are typically made from wood, but not all cribs are the same. Some cribs are made of hardwood, which has a higher density and comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves during the winter. Some cribs are made of softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreens. Both have their benefits however, if you're looking for a crib that can last for many years it is best to select the hardwood option.
A crib that is well-constructed is designed to provide safety and comfort. It should not have sharp corners or other potential hazards that could trap a little one's fingers or legs. It should have a large enough opening that allows you to change the sheets easily. It is also crucial to ensure that the crib is securely anchored in its room and is not placed close to any windows or other dangers that could be posed.
If you are looking for a new crib it is essential to be aware of the safety standards recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a variety of aspects that include the dimensions of your crib as well as the type of mattress you choose.
Some cribs are more stringent than others, but the majority of them are in line with or exceed the standards. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of sustainable-sourced hardwood and non-toxic finishes. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA requirements, CFR and ASTM for spindle support, quality of construction chemical and heavy metal content as well as ASTM requirements.
It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs we looked at, but if you're looking for a modern and stylish crib for your baby that can last for a long time, this is an excellent choice. It's also more sturdy than other cribs we have reviewed. It also takes up more space in your bedroom compared to some of the smaller cribs we've considered. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it may not be the ideal choice for a smaller nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made from materials that are durable and safe, which means they won't break or splinter over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can sleep in peace. Whether you choose foam or innerspring it must be in compliance with CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It must also be firm as soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you decide to purchase a mattress made of foam, look for one that has CertiPUR certification. This means that the foam is produced free of PBDEs, ozone depleters and TCEP flame retardants. It should also have no metal coils or other dangerous chemicals. Another alternative is natural latex which is an extremely durable and long-lasting material which is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is an excellent example of a top-quality wooden crib. It features four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they grow. Its classic design will fit in with any decor for your nursery and its non-toxic construction will ensure that your child's environment is healthy and safe.
If they have signs that they are damaged or are not being properly assembled or maintained, it is time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts which can trap the baby's head or legs and arms, chipped paints that can expose them to harmful substances, splinters and other construction elements that are unsafe, like slats that are not properly spaced or drop sides. Additionally, items that are decorative such as wedges, bumpers and other ornamental pieces are not recommended, as they can pose health risks to babies.
Romina is a family-owned firm that manufactures beautiful, safe and eco-friendly wooden bassets, cradles, and cribs. Their furniture is handmade in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that's sustainably harvested. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are stronger than glues or nails, and they utilize heated wood. Their products can be found in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They can also be purchased on the internet. They offer a variety of paint and stain choices and hardware options.
Cost
It is important to take into consideration your budget when purchasing a crib. However, the right crib can add a lot of value to your nursery and save you money in the long term. A sturdy crib is durable, easy to assemble and looks beautiful in the nursery. It is important to buy a crib that adheres with Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Registering your crib with the CPSC will enable you to get recall notifications much earlier than if you did not register your crib.
Many factors go into deciding which crib is right for your child, including the style and cost. Some of these factors are personal preference, such as whether to use flat panels or slats, while others are more practical and essential for crib sizes and the mattress's height. There are a variety of cribs. Some are compact and fit into tiny spaces while others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
The best cribs are made to be more flexible than others. This lets parents use them for a longer period of time, and to develop with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be transformed into an midi crib or bassinet. It can also be turned into an midi toddler's crib or a large daybed. Its small width makes it easy to move, while its circular shape creates a womb-like environment for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are excellent options. Both cribs are minimalist, sleek designs that compliment any nursery decor. They are made of sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little mouths and hands, reducing the risk of SIDS. The cribs come with four levels of mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs are easy to assemble, taking about an hour or less from beginning to the end. The cribs come with a user's manual, as well as the necessary tools. There is no need to purchase the cribs separately. The cribs we examined were compliant with the CPSC's safety guidelines however some included more components than others, so be certain to read the instructions carefully before attempting assembly.