Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're shopping for a crib, you'll need one that is safe and meets the highest standards, which are outlined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want a crib that is compatible with your space and your budget.
Our top picks are a contemporary minimalist crib constructed from eco-friendly wood and a convertible crib that grows with the baby into the toddler bed and daybed as well as a Delta Children crib that comes in a range of attractive colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a quality crib is its security. If you are purchasing the crib for the first time or replacing one that is old make sure that the mattress and bedding meet government safety standards. Also, avoid using bumper pads, sleep positioners and other products that raise your child up or create a slanted sleeping surface. These items have been linked to SIDS and 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 show that the crib was inspected by a third-party, and that it has met the highest standards of safety. Additionally the mattress should be firm, as soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be no more than two and three-quarter inches apart to prevent the infant's head getting stuck between them. Make sure the corner posts do not exceed 1/16 inch in height to ensure that baby's clothing doesn't get caught on the posts.
Additionally, if you are considering purchasing a used crib, ensure that it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also consider buying cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is because teething infants can chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
If you do choose to purchase a convertible crib, make sure whether the conversion kits are compliant with CPSC standards. These kits permit you to convert the crib into an adult bed or a full-size bed. They're not always simple to put together and may require professional installation.
In addition to these features, a quality crib should have sturdy sides and slats, which are strong enough to keep the crib from crashing or shifting in the course of time. It should also have a strong enough drawer bottom to support toys and clothes. Furthermore, the drawer must close and lock securely to keep your baby from pulling out the contents. Additionally it must be able to support the weight of a bulky quilt or blanket without sliding.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, so finding one that fits your decor style can be a jolly task. There are a myriad of cribs to choose from, with modern and sleek options to classic-looking designs. Some cribs have slats of different heights and come with toddler conversion kits once your child is ready to move on. The mattress's height and the crib's size are other important aspects to consider.
Cribs are generally made from wood, though not all are created equally. Some are made of hardwood, which is heavier and is derived from deciduous trees which lose their leaves in winter. Others are made of softwood which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both have their benefits however, if you're looking for a crib that can last for many years it is recommended to choose the hardwood option.
A crib that is well-designed to be safe and comfortable. It should not have sharp edges or other hazards that could trap the fingers of a child or legs. It must also have a large enough opening that allows for easy sheet swaps. It is also crucial to make sure the crib is securely anchored in its room, and not placed close to windows or other potential dangers.
When you are shopping for a new crib it is crucial to be aware of the safety guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a variety of factors such as the size of the crib and the type of mattress you choose.
Some cribs are more rigorous than others, but the majority of them meet or surpass the standards. For example, the Evolur Newbury crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made from sustainably sourced wood and non-toxic paints. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for quality of construction as well as spindle load support and heavy metal and chemical content.
It's a bit more costly than other cribs that we examined however if you're looking for a modern and stylish crib for your baby that will last multiple generations, this is an excellent choice. It is also more substantial than other cribs we've reviewed. It also takes up more space in your bedroom compared to some of the smaller ones we have examined. It has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it may not be suitable for a minimalist nursery.
Materials
A crib should be built from materials that are durable and safe, so they won't split or break over time. It must also be easy to clean so that your baby can sleep peacefully. Whether you choose innerspring or foam, it should meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should be firm as well since soft mattresses could increase SIDS risk. If you opt for a mattress made of foam, look for one that has CertiPUR-US certification. This means that the foam is produced without PBDEs, ozone depleters and TCEP flame retardants. It should also have no metal coils or any other hazardous chemicals. Natural latex is an alternative. It is a strong and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great model of a wooden crib that is built to last. It has four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted to a toddler bed or a day bed, and then to an adult-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design can fit in with any decor for your nursery and its non-toxic construction will ensure that your baby's environment is healthy and safe.
Old cribs should be replaced when they show signs of wear or aren't properly maintained or assembled. They include cutouts with decorative designs that can entrap a baby's head, arms, or legs and chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances; splinters; and unsafe construction details like poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Also, wedges, bumpers, and other decorative items should be avoided because they also pose dangers to a baby's health.
Romina is an eco-friendly family-owned, safe and beautiful company that makes wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Their furniture is handcrafted in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that is sustainable harvested. see post use mortise and Tenon joints, which are more durable than glues or nails, and they use kiln-dried wood. The products are available in specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also purchase these products online. They have a variety of different stain and paint options, as well as various hardware options.
Cost
It is crucial to take into consideration your budget when buying a crib. But, the right crib can add value to your nursery and save you money in the long term. Apart from being durable A good crib will be easy to put together and will look beautiful in the nursery. It is essential to purchase an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Registering your crib with the CPSC will enable you to receive recall notices much sooner than if you did not register your crib.
Many factors go into deciding the best crib for your child, including the style and cost. Some of these factors such as the use of slats over flat panels, are solely personal preferences, while other, such as the crib size and mattress' height, are more practical. There are also different types of cribs, 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 most popular cribs on the market are designed to be more adaptable than others which allows parents to get a lot of use from them and to grow with their children. For example, the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet midi crib, a midi toddler bed, or even a full-size toddler daybed, which makes it the ideal choice for families with growing children. Its narrow width allows it to be moved easily and its circular shape creates a womb like environment for babies.
Other cribs that are worth considering include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both have sleek, minimalist designs that complement any nursery decor. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for small mouths and hands, reducing the risk of SIDS. These cribs come with four adjustable levels of mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs are easy to put together, taking around an hour or less from beginning to the end. The cribs come with a user's manual, as well as the tools needed. There is no need to purchase the cribs separately. All cribs that we reviewed conformed to the CPSC safety requirements. However there were some cribs with more components than others. Be sure to read the instructions prior to beginning the assembly.