Shopping For Good Cribs
When shopping for a crib you should make sure 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 is compatible with your space and budget.
Our top picks are a modern minimalist crib constructed from wood that is sustainable, a convertible crib which can be transformed with the baby into the toddler bed and daybed, and a Delta Children crib that comes with a variety of attractive colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a crib that is worth buying is its safety. If you're buying a brand new crib or replacing one that is old, ensure the mattress and bedding meet government safety standards. Also, stay clear of bumper pads, sleep positioners and other objects that can lift your child up or create a slanted sleeping surface. These items are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked with suffocation injuries in infants.
If you are looking to ensure the safety of your child select a crib that bears the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals indicate that the crib has been tested by a third party and has passed the strictest 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 head of a baby from getting stuck between them. Also, ensure that the corner posts aren't more than 1/16 inches high to prevent a baby's clothes from getting caught on them.
If you're thinking of buying a used crib, be sure it hasn't been involved in any accidents or recalls. You should also buy a crib with lead-free paint. This is because teething infants can chew on the rails, which can cause lead poisoning.
In the end, if you opt to buy a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kits meet CPSC standards. These kits permit the crib to convert into a full-size or toddler mattress. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may require a professional to install.
In addition to these features, a quality crib should also have sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from crashing or shifting with time. It should have a thick enough bottom drawer to hold toys and clothes. The drawer should also be able to close and lock tightly so that your child cannot pull out the contents. In addition, it should be able to hold the weight of a bulky blanket or quilt without sliding.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so choosing one that is in line with your decor style can be a fun task. There are many different cribs to choose from, ranging with modern and sleek options to classic designs. Some cribs feature slats of different heights and come with toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to go on. The crib's size and mattress height are other important aspects to consider.
Cribs are generally made from wood, however not all are created equal. Some cribs are made from hardwood, which has a higher density and is derived from deciduous trees, which lose their leaves during the winter. Some cribs are made of softwood that is lighter and comes from evergreens. Both have their benefits, but if you're looking for a crib that will last for many years it is recommended to choose a hardwood crib.
good cribs is built to provide safety and comfort. It shouldn't have sharp corners or other potential hazards which could entrap a child's fingers or leg. It should also have a large enough opening for easy sheet swaps. It is also essential to make sure the crib is properly anchored within its space and not close to windows or other dangers that could be posed.
If you're in the market for a crib, you need to be aware of the safety guidelines that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are designed to assist in preventing SIDS and cover a range of aspects including the size of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
The majority of cribs we looked at have met or exceeded these standards However, some cribs are more stringent than others. The Evolur Newbury crib is, for instance, GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of sustainably-sourced hardwood with non-toxic finishes. It also meets or surpasses the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for quality of construction as well as spindle load support and heavy metal and chemical content.
It's more expensive than some of the other cribs we examined however it's a great option for those looking for a modern and stylish crib that can last many siblings. It is also more substantial than the other cribs we have reviewed. It also takes up more space in your bedroom compared to some of the smaller cribs we've examined. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it may not be the ideal fit for a smaller nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made of sturdy and safe materials that won't damage or break down over time. It should be easy to clean so that your child can sleep comfortably. Whether you opt for foam or innersprings, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It should be firm as well, as soft mattresses can increase SIDS risk. If you decide to purchase a mattress made of foam, look for one that has CertiPUR certification. This means that the foam is made without PBDEs, ozone depleters, and TCEP flame retardants. It shouldn't contain metal coils or any other harmful chemicals. Another option is natural latex, which is an extremely durable and long-lasting material that is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is a great example of a premium wood crib. It has four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed, day bed or a full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they develop. Its classic design will fit in with 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 aren't being properly assembled or maintained, it is time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts that could trap a baby's head, arms or legs and chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances; splinters and construction elements that are unsafe such as poorly spaced slats and drop sides. In addition, wedges, bumpers and other items of decoration should be avoided because they can also pose risks for a baby's health.
Romina is a family-owned business that makes safe, beautiful and eco-friendly wooden bassets as well as cribs, cradles, and cradles. Amish craftsmen in Ohio produce their furniture from sustainable wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than glues or nails and they use kiln-dried wood. Their products are available in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. You can also buy the items on the internet. They provide a range of different paint and stain options, as well as an array of hardware.
Cost
Cribs are costly and it is crucial to think about your budget prior to buying one. A crib that is well-designed will add value to your nursery and can save money over time. Apart from being durable, a good crib will be easy to assemble and look great in the nursery. It is also important to select a crib that adheres to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with CPSC will permit you to receive recall notices much sooner than if you did not register your crib.
There are many factors that influence the best crib for your child, including the design and price. Certain of these aspects, like the use of slats over flat panels, are just personal preference, while other, such as the size of the crib and the mattress's height are more practical. There are a variety of cribs, ranging from compact models that can fit in smaller spaces to larger ones that can transform into toddler beds and full-size beds.
The best cribs are designed to be more versatile than others. This allows parents to use them for a longer amount of time and also to grow with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, can be converted into a bassinet or midi-crib. It can also be turned into an midi toddler's crib or a large daybed. Its small width allows it to be easily moved, while its circular shape creates a womb-like environment for babies.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are excellent alternatives. Both cribs are modern, minimalist designs that compliment any decor in the nursery. The cribs are constructed of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for children's hands and mouths. This reduces the risk of SIDS. The cribs also come with four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted that allow you to raise the mattress up as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs are simple to put together, taking around an hour or less from start to completion. The cribs come with an instruction manual, as well as the tools required. You don't need to purchase cribs separately. All cribs we tested were in compliance with CPSC safety requirements. However, some cribs had more components than others. Be sure to read the instructions prior to beginning assembly.