Shopping For Good Cribs
When you are looking for a crib, you will want to ensure that it meets the high safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to find one that fits your space and budget.
Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib constructed from sustainable wood, a convertible crib which grows with the baby into a daybed and toddler bed, and a Delta Children crib that comes in a range of appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important aspects of a crib that is worth buying is its security. Whether you are shopping for your first crib or replacing an older crib ensure that the mattress and other bedding items meet the standards set by the government. Avoid bumper pads, positioners, and other objects that raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These items are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked with suffocation injuries in infants.
To ensure your baby's safety, look for a crib that has the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals show that the crib has been tested by a third-party and is in compliance with the highest safety standards. In addition the mattress should be firm, as mattresses with soft surfaces increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be no more than two and three-quarter inches apart in order to prevent the infant's head getting stuck between them. Also, ensure that the posts at the corners are not more than 1/16 inch high to prevent a baby's clothes from catching on them.
If you are thinking of purchasing a used crib, make sure that it hasn't been involved in any accidents or recalls. It is also crucial to buy a new crib that is made of lead-free paint. This is because teething babies can chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
If you are considering buying a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits let you transform the crib into a full-size toddler bed or a bed. They're not always easy to assemble and may require professional installation.
A good crib must be built with sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to prevent the crib from slipping or collapsing in the course of time. It must also have a drawer bottom that is strong enough to hold toys and clothing. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to stop your child from ripping out the contents. It should also be able hold the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sliding.
Design
Finding a crib that is in line with your style of decor is a great way to have fun. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, ranging from sleek modern options to classic designs. The slats are usually of various heights and some include toddler conversion kits in case your baby is ready to move up. The mattress's height and the crib's size are also important factors to take into consideration.
Cribs are generally made from wood, though they are not all created to be the same. Some are made from hardwood, which is denser and comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter. Others are made from softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have advantages however if your objective is to purchase a crib that will last for a number of children hardwood is the best option.
A good crib is built for comfort and safety. It should not have sharp corners or other potential dangers that could entrap the fingers of a child or legs. It should also have a large enough opening to allow for easy sheet swaps. It is also essential to ensure that the crib is properly anchored within its space, and not placed near any windows or other dangers that could be posed.
When you are in the market for a new crib, it is important to be aware of the safety standards recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to prevent SIDS and cover a range of factors that include the size of the crib and the type mattress you use.
The majority of cribs we looked at meet or exceed these standards, but some are more strict than others. The Evolur Newbury crib, for example, is GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of sustainably-sourced hardwood with non-toxic finishes. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA requirements, CFR and ASTM for build quality, spindle support chemical and heavy metal content, and ASTM specifications.
It's more expensive than a few cribs we looked at but it's an excellent option for those looking for a modern and stylish crib that will last through several siblings. It's also a bit more substantial than the cribs we looked at and will take up more square footage in your room than the smaller cribs we reviewed. It's got more exposed hardware than other cribs which means it's not suitable for an open-plan nursery.
Materials
A crib should be built from materials that are durable and safe, so they won't splinter or damage 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 also be firm, because soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. Find a mattress that is CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and TCEP fire retardants. It should not contain any metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is another option. It is a tough and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent example of a wood crib that is built to last. It has four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted into a toddler bed, day bed or a full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they develop. Its classic design can fit in with any nursery decor, and its non-toxic construction will ensure that your child's environment is healthy and safe.
Old cribs should be replaced when they are showing signs of wear or aren't properly assembled or maintained. These include decorative cutouts that could trap a baby's head, arms or legs or legs; chipped paint that may expose them to harmful substances, splinters and unsafe construction details, such as inadequately spaced slats and drop sides. Also, decorative items like wedges, bumpers and other pieces of decor should be avoided, because they could pose health hazards to infants.
Romina is a family-owned company that manufactures beautiful, safe and eco-friendly wooden bassinets as well as cribs, cradles, and cradles. Their furniture is handcrafted in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that is sustainable harvested. They make use of mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than glues or nails and they make use of kiln dried wood. Their products are available at many specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They are also available online. They provide a range of paint and stain options, along with a variety of hardware.
Cost
It is essential to think about your budget when buying a crib. However, the right crib can add significant value to your nursery and save you money in the long term. In addition to being durable the best crib will be easy to put together and will look beautiful in the nursery. It is also essential to purchase cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with the CPSC will allow you to receive recall notices earlier than if you did not register your crib.
The style and price are just two of the many factors that influence the selection of the best crib for your child. A few of these factors are personal preference, like whether to choose flat panels or slats while others are more practical and crucial for crib sizes and mattress height. There are also different types of cribs, from small cribs that can be tucked away in smaller spaces to larger ones that can transform into toddler beds and full-size beds.
The best cribs are designed to be more adaptable than others. This allows parents to make use of them for a longer amount of time, and to develop with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, can be converted into a bassinet or midi crib. It can also be transformed into a midi toddler's bed or a daybed that is full-sized. cot beds makes it easy to move and its circular shape creates a womb like environment for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are excellent alternatives. Both cribs are sleek, minimalistic designs that are perfect for any decor for the nursery. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little mouths and hands, reducing the chance of SIDS. These cribs come with four levels of mattress support, so you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
Most modern cribs can be put together within an hour or less. They also come with a thorough instruction manual and all the required tools, meaning you don't have to purchase them separately. All cribs we tested met the CPSC safety standards. However certain cribs had more components than others. Be sure to carefully go through the instructions prior to attempting the assembly.