Shopping For Good Cribs
When shopping for a crib you should make sure that it meets the high safety standards established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll want to find one that is suitable for your budget and space.
Our top picks include modern minimalist crib made from sustainable wood; a convertible crib that grows as a toddler into a daybed and bed; and a versatile option from Delta Children that comes in several visually appealing colorways.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important aspects of a quality crib. If you're buying the crib for the first time or replacing one that is old make sure the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Also, avoid using bumper pads, sleep positioners and other items that lift your infant up or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These items have been linked to SIDS and suffocation injuries in infants.
If you are looking to ensure the safety of your baby 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 was inspected by a third party and meets the highest standards of safety. Mattresses that are soft can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats need to be at least two and three quarter inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Check that the posts on the corners do not exceed 1/16 inches in height to ensure that baby's clothing doesn't get caught on the posts.
In addition, if you're contemplating purchasing a used crib, check that it has not been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also buy cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is because infants who are teething can chew on the rails, which can cause lead poisoning.
If you do choose to purchase a convertible crib, ensure whether the conversion kits are compliant with CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to be transformed into a toddler or full-size mattress. However, they're not always simple to construct and may require professional installation.
A good crib must be built with sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from shifting or collapsing over time. It should also have a bottom for the drawer that is sturdy enough to support toys and clothing. The drawer should also be able to close and lock securely so that your baby cannot take the contents. It should also be able to support the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sliding.
Design
Finding a crib that matches your style of decorating can be fun. There are many cribs that range from sleek modern designs to classic styles. Some cribs feature slats of different heights and come with toddler conversion kits once your child is ready to go onto the next stage. Other things to consider are the mattress's height and crib size.
Cribs are typically constructed from wood, however not all cribs are created equal. Some are made of hardwood, which is denser and is sourced from deciduous trees which lose their leaves in winter. Others are made from softwood, which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both options have advantages but if your goal is to buy a crib that will last for many children, hardwood is the best choice.
A quality crib is built to provide safety and comfort. It should not have sharp corners or any other potential hazards which could cause injury to the child's fingers or legs. It must also have a large enough opening for easy sheet swaps. It is also crucial that the crib is properly secured to its place and not placed near windows or other potential dangers.
If you are looking for a new crib, it is essential to be aware of the safety guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a range of factors that include the size of the crib and the type of mattress you choose.
Certain cribs are more strict than others, but the majority of them are in line with or surpass the standards. For example the Evolur Newbury crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made of sustainably-sourced wood using non-toxic paints. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for build quality and spindle load support and chemical and heavy metal content.
It's more expensive than many of the other cribs we reviewed but it's an excellent option for those looking for a stylish modern crib that will last through several siblings. It's also more substantial than the other cribs we reviewed and will have more space in your space than some of the smaller cribs we looked at. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, meaning it might not be the best fit for a small nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed from sturdy and safe materials that will not cause harm or break down over time. great crib must also be easy to clean, so that your child can sleep peacefully. Whether you choose foam or innerspring, it should meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should also be firm since soft mattresses could increase SIDS risk. Look for a foam mattress that has CertiPUR US certification. This means the mattress is free of ozone-depleting chemicals, PBDEs and TCEP fire retardants. It should also have no metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is another option. It is a strong and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is an excellent example of a premium wooden crib. It comes with four mattress-level levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed and a full-sized bed, to accommodate your child's needs as they grow. Its classic design will blend into 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 properly assembled or maintained, it is time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts that can hold the baby's head in place or legs and arms, chipped paints that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and dangerous construction details such as slats not evenly spaced or drop sides. Additionally, bumpers, wedges and other ornamental items are not recommended as they also pose dangers to a baby's health.
Romina is an eco-friendly family-owned, safe and beautiful business that manufactures wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Amish craftsmen from Ohio make their furniture using sustainably harvested solid wood. They use mortise and Tenon joints, which are stronger than glues or nails and they use kiln-dried wood. good cribs are available in many specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy them on the internet. They offer a variety of stain and paint choices as well as a variety of hardware options.
Cost
It is important to consider your budget when purchasing a crib. But, the right crib can add a lot of value to your nursery and save you money over the long haul. In addition to being durable the best crib will be simple to put together and will look beautiful in the nursery. It is also important to purchase cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with CPSC will permit you to get recall notices earlier than you would otherwise.
Many factors influence the best crib for your child, including the design and price. Some of these are personal preference, such as whether to choose slats or flat panels, while others are more practical and essential, such as crib size and mattress height. There are also different types of cribs, ranging from compact models that can fit in smaller spaces to larger ones that can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs are made to be more flexible than others. This allows parents to use cribs for a longer period of time and to grow with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, can be converted into a bassinet or midi-crib. It can also be converted into a midi toddler's bed or a full-size daybed. Its small width and wheels make it simple to move around, and its unique circular shape allows for the illusion of a womb for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are also good options. Both feature sleek minimalist designs that will fit in with any decor for the nursery. They are made of sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little mouths and hands, reducing the risk of SIDS. The cribs come with four levels of mattress support, so you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be assembled within an hour or less. The cribs come with a manual for assembly along with the tools required. It is not necessary to purchase the cribs separately. All cribs we examined conformed to the CPSC safety requirements. However certain cribs had more components than others. Be sure to read the instructions before attempting assembly.