Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're looking for a crib, you'll want 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 need to choose a crib that is suitable for your budget and space.
Our top picks include a modern, minimal crib made with sustainable wood A convertible crib that transforms with baby into a toddler daybed and bed; and a versatile option from Delta Children that comes in many appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a crib that is worth buying is its security. When you are buying your first crib or replacing an older one ensure that the mattress and other bedding meets government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads and positioners, as well as other items which elevate your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects have been associated with SIDS and other suffocation injuries among infants.
To ensure your baby's safety, look for cribs that have the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals indicate that the crib has been tested by a third party and meets the highest standards of safety. Additionally the mattress should be firm as mattresses that are soft increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be spaced no more than 2 and 3/8 inches apart, to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Make sure the posts on the corners do not exceed 1/16 inch in height to ensure that baby's clothing doesn't get caught on them.
In addition, if you're considering buying a used crib check that it has not been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also recommended to purchase a crib with lead-free paint. This is due to the fact that babies who are teething may chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
Also, if you purchase a convertible crib make sure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits allow you to convert the crib into an adult bed or a full-size bed. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may require a professional to install.
In addition to these features, a good crib should also have sturdy sides and slats. These are strong enough to stop the crib from collapsing or shifting in the course of time. It should have a thick enough bottom that can hold toys and clothes. Additionally, the drawer should close and lock securely to keep your baby from pulling out the contents. In addition, it must be able to support the weight of a large blanket or quilt without sagging.
Design
The crib is the center of any nursery, so choosing one that is in line with your decor style can be a jolly task. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, ranging from sleek modern options to classic-looking models. The slats tend to be different in height and some are equipped with toddler conversion kits in case your baby is ready to go up. The crib's size and mattress height are also important factors to take into consideration.
Cribs are typically made of wood, though not all are created to be the same. Some are made from hardwood, which is more dense and is derived from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the winter. Others are made from softwood, which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both options have their advantages, but if your goal is to buy an affordable crib that will last for many children hardwood is the best option.
A crib that is well-designed to ensure safety and comfort. It should not have sharp corners or other potential hazards that could catch a little one's fingers or legs. It should also have a wide enough opening that allows you to change the sheets easily. It's also important to make sure the crib is securely anchored within its space and not near any windows or other possible dangers.
If you're looking to buy a crib, you need to be aware of the safety standards that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. These standards are focused on preventing SIDS and take into account a variety of factors including the dimensions of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
Certain cribs are more strict than others, but the majority of them are in line with or exceed the standards. The Evolur Newbury crib, for example, is GreenGuard Gold-certified and is made from sustainable hardwood that is sourced from sustainable sources and has non-toxic finishes. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA requirements, CFR and ASTM for spindle support, build quality as well as heavy and chemical content, and ASTM requirements.
It's more expensive than some cribs we reviewed however it's a great option if you're looking for an elegant modern crib that will last through many siblings. It's also larger than the cribs we examined, and it will take up more square footage in your room than the smaller cribs we looked at. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it may not be the best fit for a minimal nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed from sturdy and safe materials that will not cause harm or break over time. It should also be easy to clean so that your baby can sleep peacefully. Whether you opt for foam or innerspring mattresses, the mattress must meet CPSC safety standards. It must also be firm since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you opt for a mattress made of foam, look for one with CertiPUR-US certification. This means that the foam is made free of PBDEs, ozone depleters and TCEP flame retardants. It should also have no metal coils or other dangerous chemicals. Another option is natural latex, which is a durable and long-lasting material that's free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent model of a wooden crib that is built to last. It has four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be made into an infant bed or a day bed, and then to an adult-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design can fit into any nursery decor and its non-toxic design will ensure that your baby's environment is safe and healthy.
If they exhibit signs of being damaged or are not being properly assembled or maintained It is the right time to replace them. These include decorative cutouts that could trap the baby's head, arms or legs and chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances; splinters; and construction elements that are unsafe like poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Also, decorative items such as wedges, bumpers and other pieces of decor should be avoided, because they could pose health hazards to infants.
Romina is a family-owned business that produces beautiful, safe and eco-friendly wooden bassinets cribs, cradles and cribs. Their furniture is handcrafted in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that's sustainable harvested. They make use of 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 buy these products on the internet. They have a variety of different stain and paint options, along with an array of hardware.
Cost
It is crucial to think about your budget when buying a crib. However, the right crib can add significant value to your nursery and help you save money in the long run. In addition to being durable the best crib is easy to assemble and look great in the nursery. It is important to buy an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. It is recommended to register your crib with the CPSC, which will allow you to receive recall notifications earlier than you would otherwise.
Many factors go into deciding which crib is right for your child, including style and cost. Certain of these aspects such as the use of slats versus flat panels, are purely personal preferences, while others, such as the crib size and the mattress's height, are more practical. There are a variety of cribs. Some are small and can fit in small spaces, while others can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs are made to be more flexible than others. This lets parents make use of cribs for a longer period of time, and to develop with their child. For instance the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, a 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 and wheels make it easy to move around, and its unique circular shape creates an womb-like space for babies.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are excellent options. Both cribs have modern, minimalist designs that compliment any decor in the nursery. These cribs are made of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for babies with small mouths and hands. This reduces the chance of SIDS. The cribs also come with four adjustable levels of mattress support, so you can move the mattress up as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs are simple to put together, taking around an hour or less from start to the end. They also come with an extensive instruction manual as well as the required tools, meaning you don't have to buy them separately. All cribs we examined met the CPSC safety requirements. However there were some cribs with more components than others. Be sure to carefully go through the instructions prior to attempting assembly.