Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're in the market for a crib, you'll need one that meets high safety standards, as defined 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 include modern minimalist crib made from sustainable wood; a convertible crib that transforms with baby into a toddler bed and daybed and a plethora of options from Delta Children that comes in various appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a quality crib is its security. Whether you are shopping for your first crib or replacing one that is old, make sure the mattress and other bedding meets government safety standards. Also, avoid bumper pads, sleep positioners and other products that raise your child up or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These items have been linked to SIDS and the risk of suffocation among 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 signify that the crib has been inspected by a third party and has passed the strictest safety requirements. In addition, the mattress should be firm, since mattresses that are soft increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be spaced between 2 and 3/8 inches apart to prevent the head of a baby from getting stuck between them. Also, check that the corner posts aren't more than 1/16 inch high to stop a baby's clothing from getting caught on them.
In addition, if you're thinking of purchasing a used crib, make sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also recommended to purchase a crib that has paint that is free of lead. This is because teething babies can chew the rails and cause lead poisoning.
Also, if you purchase a convertible crib make sure that the conversion kit is in line with CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to be converted into a toddler or full-size mattress. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may need professional installation.
A good crib must have strong sides and slats that are strong enough to prevent the crib from slipping or collapsing in the course of time. It should have a sturdy enough bottom drawer to hold clothing and toys. Furthermore, the drawer must close and lock securely to prevent your child from taking out the contents. Furthermore, it should be able to withstand the weight of a heavy quilt or blanket without falling.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, therefore finding one that matches your decorating style can be a rewarding task. There are many different cribs to choose from, from sleek modern options to classic-looking designs. Some cribs feature slats of different heights, and include toddler conversion kits once your child is ready to go to the next level. Mattress height and crib size are also important factors to consider.
Cribs are typically made of wood, but not all cribs are made of wood. Some are made of hardwood, which is heavier and is derived from deciduous trees which lose their leaves in winter, while others are made of softwood which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both options have advantages, but if your goal is to buy a crib that can last for a number of children, hardwood is the best option.
A quality crib is built to provide safety and comfort. It shouldn't have sharp corners or other hazards that could entrap a child's fingers or leg. It should also have a wide enough opening to allow for easy sheet swaps. It is also important that the crib be properly anchored to its room and not placed near windows or other potential dangers.
When you are in the market for a new crib it is crucial to be aware of safety standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to assist in preventing SIDS, and they cover a variety of factors including the dimensions of the crib and the type of mattress you use.
Certain cribs are more strict than others, but the majority of them meet or exceed the standards. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is GreenGuard Gold-certified and is made from sustainable-sourced hardwood and non-toxic finishes. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA requirements, CFR and ASTM for spindle support, quality of construction, chemical and heavy metal content, and ASTM requirements.
It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs we looked at however if you're looking for a modern and stylish crib for your baby that can last for many generations it's an excellent option. It's also more sturdy than other cribs that we have looked at. 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, meaning it might not be the ideal fit for a minimal nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed using materials that are strong and safe, so they won't splinter or damage over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can sleep comfortably. No matter if you choose foam or innerspring it must be in compliance with CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should also be firm since soft mattresses could increase SIDS risk. Find a mattress that is CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is manufactured free of PBDEs, ozone depleters, and TCEP flame retardants. It should also have no metal coils or any other hazardous chemicals. Another alternative is natural latex which is known as an extremely durable and long-lasting material which is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great example of a wood crib that is built to last. It has four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also 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 will blend in with any nursery decor and its non-toxic materials will ensure your baby's safety and healthy environment.
If they have signs that they are damaged or are not being maintained or assembled correctly it is time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts that could keep the baby's head from being trapped, legs and arms, chipped paints that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters, and unsafe construction details such as slats not evenly spaced or drop sides. Also, decorative items such as bumpers, wedges and other pieces of decor should be avoided as they could pose health hazards to infants.
Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned business that produces wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Amish craftsmen in Ohio make their furniture using sustainably harvested solid wood. such a good point use mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than glues or nails, and they make use of kiln dried wood. Their products can be found in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. You can also purchase the items online. They offer a variety of stain and paint choices, as well as different hardware options.
Cost
It is crucial to take into consideration your budget when purchasing a crib. But, the right crib can add significant value to your nursery and help you save money over the long haul. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to set up and looks beautiful in the nursery. It is important to buy an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Registering your crib with the CPSC will allow you to receive recall notices earlier than you would otherwise.
There are many factors that influence the crib that is best for your child, including the design and price. A few of these factors are personal preference, like whether to choose slats or flat panels, while others are more practical and important, such as crib size and mattress height. There are also different types of cribs, from compact models that can fit in smaller spaces to larger ones that can transform into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs available are designed to be more adaptable than others and allow parents to get a lot of use from the crib and develop 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 daybed, making it ideal for families that are growing. Its slim width makes it easy to move and its circular design creates a womb like environment for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are good alternatives. Both cribs feature sleek, minimalistic designs that will complement any decor in the nursery. These cribs are made of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for small hands and mouths. This reduces the chance of SIDS. The cribs also come with four adjustable mattress support levels which allows you to move the mattress up as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs can be put together in a matter of hours or less. They also come with a detailed instruction manual and the necessary tools, so you don't have to purchase the cribs separately. All cribs we tested met the CPSC safety standards. However there were some cribs with more parts than others. Be sure to read the instructions prior to beginning the assembly.