Shopping For Good Cribs
When you are looking for a crib, you will want to ensure that it meets the standards of safety that are 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 minimalist crib made from sustainable wood and a convertible crib that can grow with baby into a toddler bed and daybed as well as a multi-functional crib from Delta Children that comes in several visually appealing colorways.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important aspects of a good crib. If you are buying a brand new crib or replacing one that's older make sure that the mattress and bedding meet government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads and positioners, as well as other products that elevate your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked with suffocation injuries in infants.
If you want 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 has been evaluated by a third-party and meets the highest safety requirements. Mattresses with soft surfaces can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be spaced at least 2 and 3/8 inches apart, to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Also, ensure that the posts at the corners are not more than 1/16 inches high to prevent a baby's clothes from catching on them.
If you are considering buying a used crib make sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also consider buying a crib that has paint that is free of lead. This is because infants who are teething can chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
In the end, if you choose to purchase a convertible crib, ensure whether the conversion kits are compliant with CPSC standards. These kits allow you to transform the crib into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They're not always easy to assemble and may require professional installation.
In addition to these attributes, a great crib should have sturdy sides and slats, which are strong enough to prevent the crib from falling over or shifting in the course of time. It should also have a strong enough bottom that can hold clothing and toys. The drawer should also be able to close and lock tightly so that your baby cannot remove the contents. It should also be able to hold the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sliding.
Design
Finding a crib that fits your style of decorating is a great way to have fun. There are many cribs, from sleek contemporary designs to classic styles. Some cribs come with slats that are different heights and come with toddler conversion kits once your child is ready to move to the next level. Other features to consider include the mattress's height and crib size.
Cribs are typically made of wood, but not all cribs are made of wood. Some cribs are constructed of hardwood which has a greater density and comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves during winter. Others are made from softwood that is lighter and comes from evergreens. Both options have advantages but if your goal is to purchase an affordable crib that will last for many children hardwood is the ideal option.
A good crib is built for comfort and safety. It shouldn't have sharp corners or other hazards that could trap a child's fingers or leg. It must also have a large enough opening that allows for easy sheet swaps. It is also essential that the crib is secured to its place and not positioned near windows or other potential dangers.
If you're in the market for cribs, it's crucial to be aware of the safety guidelines that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a variety of factors that include the dimensions of your crib as well as the mattress you choose to use.
Some cribs are more rigorous than others, but most of them meet or exceed the standards. For instance the Evolur Newbury crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made from sustainably-sourced wood with non-toxic paints. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for quality of construction and spindle load support and heavy and chemical content.
It's more expensive than the other cribs we looked at However, if you're searching for a stylish modern crib for your baby that can last for a long time it's an excellent choice. It's also a little more substantial than some of the cribs we looked at, and it will make more space in your room than the smaller cribs we looked at. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, meaning it may not be the best fit for a smaller nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made with durable and safe materials that will not cause harm or splinter over time. It should be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. If you choose to use foam or innersprings, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It should also be firm, since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you opt for a foam mattress, look for one with CertiPUR-US certification. This means that the foam is manufactured without PBDEs, ozone depleters, and TCEP flame retardants. It must also be free of metal coils or any other hazardous chemicals. Another alternative is natural latex which is an extremely durable and long-lasting substance that is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent model of a wooden crib that is made to last. It features four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, daybed and a full-sized bed, to meet the needs of your child as they grow. Its classic design can fit into any nursery decor, and its non-toxic construction will ensure your baby's environment is healthy and safe.
If they have signs that they are worn out or not being maintained or assembled correctly It is the right time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts that could trap the baby's head, arms or legs and chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances; splinters; and unsafe construction details such as poorly spaced slats and drop sides. In addition, wedges, bumpers and other ornamental items must be avoided as they also pose dangers to a baby's health.
Romina is a family-owned firm that manufactures beautiful, safe, and eco-friendly wooden bassinets cribs, cradles and cribs. Amish craftsmen from Ohio create their furniture using sustainable wood. They make use of mortise-and-tenon joints which are stronger than glues or nails, and they employ kiln dried wood. Their products are available in specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy them online. good cribs offer a number of paint and stain options, in addition to a variety of hardware.
Cost
It is essential to consider your budget when purchasing a crib. A crib that is well-designed will enhance the value of your nursery and will save money over time. A quality crib is sturdy and easy to set up and looks stunning in the nursery. It is crucial to choose an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Registering your crib with CPSC will permit you to receive recall notices much sooner than you would otherwise.
Many factors influence which crib is right for your child, including the style and cost. Some of these are personal preference, like whether to use slats or flat panels, while others are more practical and crucial for crib sizes and the mattress's height. There are also different types of cribs, from small cribs that can be tucked away in smaller spaces to larger ones that convert into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the most popular cribs on the market are designed to be more adaptable than others which allows parents to get plenty of use out of them and to grow with their children. For instance the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, a mid-sized crib, a toddler bed, or even a full-size toddler or daybed, making it perfect for growing families. Its slim width allows it to be moved easily, while its circular shape creates a womb-like space for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are good alternatives. Both have sleek minimalist designs that are perfect for any nursery decor. They are made of sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for small hands and mouths, reducing the risk of SIDS. They also have four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted that allow you to raise the mattress higher as your baby grows.
Modern cribs are easy to assemble, taking about an hour or less from start to finish. The cribs come with an instruction manual along with the tools needed. You don't need to purchase them separately. The cribs we examined conformed to the safety standards of the CPSC However, some cribs had more parts than others, so make certain to read the instructions carefully before beginning assembly.