Shopping For Good Cribs
When you are looking for a crib, you'll want to ensure that it meets the high safety standards established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that fits into your space and your budget.
Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib constructed from eco-friendly wood tots and cots a convertible crib that expands with the baby to an adult daybed and a Delta Children crib that comes in a variety of appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important aspects of a crib that is worth buying is its security. When you are buying your first crib or replacing an older one, make sure the mattress and bedding meet the safety standards of the government. Avoid bumper pads or positioners as well as other objects that can raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked to suffocation-related injuries in infants.
To ensure your baby's safety ensure your baby's safety, choose cribs that bear 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 has passed the strictest safety standards. Additionally the mattress should be firm as mattresses with soft surfaces increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be spaced at least 2 and 3/8 inches apart to prevent an infant's head from getting stuck between them. Also, check that the posts at the corners are not more than 1/16 inches high to stop a baby's clothing from catching on them.
If you're thinking about buying a used crib, be sure that it hasn't been involved in any accidents or recalls. It is also recommended to purchase cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is because teething babies can chew on the rails and lead poisoning can result.
If you do decide to purchase a convertible crib, check that the conversion kits comply with CPSC standards. These kits permit the crib to be transformed into a toddler or full-size mattress. They're not always easy to assemble and may require a professional to install.
In addition to these attributes, a great crib should have sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from crashing or shifting with time. It should also have a bottom for the drawer that is strong enough to hold toys and clothing. The drawer should also be able to close and lock securely so that your child is unable to pull out the contents. Furthermore it must be able to support the weight of a bulky quilt or blanket without falling.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, so choosing one that fits your decor style can be a fun task. There are a variety of cribs, ranging from sleek modern designs to classic styles. 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 other important aspects to consider.
Cribs are generally made from wood, but not all cribs are made of wood. Some are constructed from hardwood, which is denser and is sourced from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in winter, while others are made of softwood which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both have advantages however, if you're looking for a crib that can last for a long time it is best to select the hardwood option.
A quality crib is built to ensure safety and comfort. It shouldn't have sharp corners or other potential hazards which could trap the child's fingers or legs. It should have a large enough opening to change the sheets easily. It's also important to make sure the crib is properly anchored to its place and not close to windows or other potential 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. The standards are geared towards preventing SIDS, and they take into account a variety of factors including the size of the crib as well as the type of mattress you use.
Most of the cribs we looked at are in compliance with these standards or even exceed them however some are more stringent than others. The Evolur Newbury crib is, for instance, GreenGuard Gold-certified and is made from sustainable hardwood that is sourced from sustainable sources and has 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 chemical and heavy metal content.
It's more expensive than some cribs we examined, but it's a great option if you're looking for a stylish modern crib that will last through multiple siblings. It is also more substantial than other cribs we have looked at. It will also take up more space in your bedroom in comparison to the smaller ones we have examined. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, meaning it might not be the best fit for a minimal nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made of sturdy and safe materials that will not cause harm or splinter over time. It should be easy to clean, so that your child can sleep comfortably. No matter if you choose foam or innerspring, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It must also be firm as soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you choose the foam mattress, search for one that has CertiPUR certification. This means the foam is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and fire retardants. It should not contain metal coils or any other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is an alternative. It is a tough, long-lasting and chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden cots 4 tots in 1 crib is a great model of a wooden crib that is built to last. It has four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they develop. Its classic design will blend into any nursery decor and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safety and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced if they are showing signs of wear or aren't correctly assembled or maintained. They include cutouts with decorative designs that can entrap a baby cots on sale's head, arms, or legs and chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and unsafe construction details like poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Also, wedges, bumpers and other items of decoration must be avoided as they could pose a risk to the health of a baby.
Romina is a family-owned business that makes safe, beautiful and eco-friendly wooden bassets, cradles, and cribs. The furniture is made in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that is sustainable harvested. They use mortise and Tenon joints, which are stronger than glues or nails, and they use kiln-dried wood. Their products can be found in specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also purchase them online. They have a variety of paint and stain options, as well as a variety of hardware.
Cost
It is important to consider your budget when buying a crib. But, the right crib can add a lot of value to your nursery and help you save money in the long term. A quality crib is sturdy and easy to set up and looks stunning in the nursery. It is also important to select cribs that conform to 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.
Many factors go into deciding the crib that is best for your child, including the design and price. Certain aspects such as the use of slats or flat panels, are just personal preference, while other like the size of the crib and mattress' height, are more practical. There are also different types of cribs, from small models that can fit in smaller spaces to larger ones that can convert into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the most popular cribs available are designed to be more adaptable than others, allowing parents to get plenty of use out of them and grow with their children. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be turned into an midi crib or bassinet. It can also be turned into a midi toddler's bed, or a full-size daybed. Its small width and wheels allow it to move around, and Affordable cots its unique circular shape helps create an womb-like space for babies.
Other good cribs include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both feature sleek minimalist designs that are perfect for any nursery decor. These cribs are made of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for small mouths and hands. This lowers the risk of SIDS. The cribs come with four adjustable levels of mattress support, meaning 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, as well as the tools needed. It is not necessary to purchase them separately. All cribs we tested met the CPSC safety requirements. However certain cribs had more components than others. Be sure to go through the instructions prior to attempting the assembly.