Shopping For Good Cribs
When you are looking for a crib, you will want to ensure that it complies with the strict safety standards established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want a crib that fits into your space and budget.
Our top picks include modern, minimal crib made with sustainable wood; a convertible crib that grows with baby into a toddler daybed and bed and a plethora of options from Delta Children that comes in various appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important characteristics of a quality crib. If you are looking for your first crib or replacing one that is old ensure that the mattress and bedding meets government safety standards. Also, stay clear of bumper pads and sleep positioners as well as other items that lift your child up or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These items have been associated with SIDS and suffocation injuries among infants.
If you want to ensure the safety of your baby select a crib that bears the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals show that the crib has been inspected by a third party and has passed the strictest safety standards. Soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be spaced at least 2 and 3/8 inches apart to prevent an infant's head from getting stuck between them. Make sure that the corner posts don't exceed 1/16 inch in height, to avoid a baby's clothing catching on the posts.
If you're thinking about purchasing a used crib, make sure it's not involved in any accidents or recalls. It is also recommended to purchase a crib that has paint that is free of lead. This is because babies who are teething may chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
If you do opt to buy a convertible crib, ensure whether the conversion kits are compliant with CPSC standards. These kits let you convert the crib into an adult bed or a full-size bed. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may need professional installation.
A quality crib should have slats and sides that are strong enough to stop the crib from slipping or collapsing in the course of time. It should also have a strong enough drawer bottom to support toys and clothes. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to keep your child from taking out the contents. It should also be able take the weight of large blankets or quilts without sagging.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, therefore finding one that fits your decor style can be a jolly task. There are a myriad of cribs to choose from, including modern, sleek models to classic designs. The slats are usually of various heights and some are equipped with toddler conversion kits to help you when your baby is ready to go up. The crib's size and mattress height are also important features to consider.
Cribs are usually made from wood, but they are not all created equal. Some are constructed from hardwood, which is heavier and is derived from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter. Other cribs are made of softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both options have advantages but if your goal is to buy a crib that will last for several children hardwood is the ideal choice.
cots and tots that is well-designed for safety and comfort. It should have no sharp edges or other dangers that could entrap little ones fingers or legs. It should have a large enough opening that allows you to change the sheets easily. It is also essential that the crib be properly fixed to its space and not placed close to windows or other potential dangers.
When you are in the market for a new crib it is essential to be aware of safety standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are geared towards preventing SIDS, and they take into account a variety of factors including the size of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
Some cribs are more stringent than others, but most of them are in line with or surpass the standards. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of sustainable hardwood that is sourced from sustainable sources and has non-toxic finishes. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for quality of construction as well as spindle load support and chemical and heavy metal content.
It's more expensive than a few of the other cribs we looked at but it's an excellent choice if you want a modern and stylish crib that will last through several siblings. It is also more substantial than the other cribs we have looked at. It will also take up more space in your bedroom in comparison to the smaller ones we have looked at. It's got more exposed hardware than other cribs, which means it's not suitable for a minimalist nursery.
Materials
A crib should be built with 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 rest comfortably. Whether you choose foam or innerspring it must be in compliance with CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It must also be firm since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you opt for a foam mattress, look for one that has CertiPUR certification. This means that the foam is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and fire retardants. It should not contain any metal coils, or any other harmful chemicals. Another alternative is natural latex which is known as an extremely durable and long-lasting substance that's free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is an excellent example of a top-quality crib made of wood. It has four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be made into a toddler bed or day bed, and then to a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will blend in with any nursery decor, and its non-toxic construction will ensure that your child's environment is healthy and safe.
Old cribs need to be replaced if they are showing signs of wear or have not been properly assembled or maintained. This includes decorative cutouts that can keep the baby's head from being trapped, legs, chips in paints that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and other construction elements that are unsafe, such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. In addition, wedges, bumpers, and other decorative items should be avoided because they could pose a risk for a baby's health.
Romina is an eco-friendly beautiful, safe and beautiful family-owned business that produces wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Amish craftsmen from Ohio produce their furniture from sustainably harvested solid wood. They use mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than glues or nails, and they make use of kiln dried wood. Their products are available in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They can also be purchased online. They have a variety of different paint and stain options, as well as various hardware options.
Cost
It is important to take into consideration your budget when purchasing a crib. But, the right crib can add value to your nursery and help you save money in the long run. In addition to being sturdy A good crib will be easy to assemble and look great in the nursery. It is also important to purchase cribs that conform to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. It is recommended that you register your crib with the CPSC and this will enable you to receive recall notifications earlier than you normally.
Style and cost are just two of the many aspects that go into choosing the right crib for your child. Some of these are personal preference, such as whether to choose flat panels or slats while others are more practical and important like crib size and mattress height. There are various types of cribs, ranging from compact cribs that can be tucked away in smaller spaces to larger ones that transform into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the best cribs on the market are designed to be more adaptable than others which allows parents to get a lot of use out of them and grow with their children. For example the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, mid-sized crib, a toddler bed, or even a full-size toddler or daybed, making it perfect for families that are growing. Its narrow width and wheels allow it to move around in, while its unique circular shape creates a womb-like environment for babies.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are also good options. Both cribs feature minimalist, sleek designs that are perfect for any nursery decor. These cribs are made from sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for babies with small hands and mouths. This reduces the risk of SIDS. The cribs have four levels of adjustable mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be put together in a matter of hours or less. The cribs come with a manual for assembly, as well as the necessary tools. You don't need to purchase cribs separately. The cribs we reviewed all met the CPSC's safety requirements however some had more components than others, so be certain to read the instructions carefully before beginning the assembly.