Shopping For Good Cribs
When looking for a crib you will want to ensure that it meets the high safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that is compatible with your space and your budget.
Our top picks are a modern, minimalist crib made from sustainable wood, a convertible crib which grows with the baby into an adult daybed and a Delta Children crib that comes with a variety of visually appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is among the most important features of a crib that is safe. If you are buying the crib for the first time or replacing one that's older, ensure the mattress and bedding meet government safety standards. Also, stay clear of bumper pads or sleep positioners, as well as other items that lift your child up or create an angled sleeping surface. These items are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked with suffocation injuries in infants.
If you want to ensure the safety of your child pick a crib that has the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals show that the crib has been tested by a third-party, and that it is in compliance with the highest standards of safety. In addition, the mattress should be firm as mattresses that are soft increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be spaced at least 2 and 3/8 inches apart to avoid the head of a baby from getting stuck between them. Also, make sure that the corner posts are no higher than 1/16 inch to prevent a baby's clothes from getting caught on them.
In addition, if you're thinking of buying a used crib make sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also crucial to buy a crib that is made of lead-free paint. This is due to the fact that babies who are teething can chew the rails and lead poisoning can result.
Lastly, if purchasing a convertible crib, make sure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits let you transform the crib into a full-size toddler bed or a bed. However, they aren't always simple to put together and may require professional installation.
In addition to these features, a good crib should also have sturdy sides and slats, which are strong enough to prevent the crib from falling over or shifting in the course of time. It must also have a drawer bottom that is sturdy enough to support clothing and toys. The drawer should also be able to close and lock securely so that your child is unable to remove the contents. Furthermore it should be able to hold the weight of a large quilt or blanket without falling.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, therefore finding one that fits your decor style can be a fun task. There are many cribs, from sleek modern designs to classic styles. The slats are usually different in height, and some come with toddler conversion kits for when your baby is ready to go up. Other things to consider are mattress height, and crib size.
Cribs are usually made from wood, but not all cribs are created equal. Some cribs are made from hardwood which has a greater density and is derived from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in the winter. Some cribs are made of softwood that is lighter and comes from evergreens. Both options have advantages but if your goal is to buy an affordable crib that will last for a number of children, hardwood is the best choice.
A crib that is well-designed to be safe and comfortable. It should have no sharp corners or other potential dangers that could entrap the fingers of a child or legs. It should also have a wide enough opening to allow changing of sheets easily. It is also essential to ensure that the crib is securely anchored in its room 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. These standards are focused on the prevention of SIDS and cover a variety of factors including the size of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
The majority of cribs we reviewed are in compliance with these standards or even exceed them, but some are more strict than others. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is certified by GREENGUARD Gold and is made of sustainably-sourced hardwood with 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 as well as ASTM requirements.
It's more expensive than a few cribs we examined, but it's a great choice if you want an elegant modern crib that can last several siblings. It's also a bit more substantial than some of the cribs we examined and will take up more square footage in your space than some of the smaller cribs we reviewed. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it might not be the ideal fit for a small nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed from materials that are durable and safe, so they won't split or break over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can sleep comfortably. Whether you choose innerspring or foam, it should meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should also be firm, since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you opt for a mattress made of foam, look for one that has CertiPUR certification. This means that the foam is produced free of PBDEs, ozone depleters and TCEP flame retardants. It should not contain any metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is an alternative. It is a durable and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great model of a wooden crib that is built to last. It comes with four mattress-level levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, daybed and a full-sized bed, to meet the needs of your child as they develop.
Baby beds will blend into any nursery decor and its non-toxic design will ensure that your baby's environment is healthy and safe.
If they exhibit signs of being worn out or not being properly maintained or assembled It is the right time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts that could trap the baby's head, arms or legs or legs; chipped paint that may expose them to harmful substances; splinters and construction elements that are unsafe, such as inadequately spaced slats and drop sides. In addition, wedges, bumpers, and other decorative items are not recommended as they could pose a risk to a baby's health.
Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned company that makes wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Their furniture is handmade in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that's sustainably harvested. They use mortise and tenon joints, which are stronger than nails or glues, and they make use of kiln dried wood. Their products are available in many specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy them online. They offer a variety of stain and paint choices as well as a variety of hardware options.
Cost
Cribs are expensive, so it is important to think about your budget prior to purchasing one. The best crib can add value to your nursery, and you will save money over time. In addition to being sturdy the best crib will be easy to put together and look stunning in the nursery. It is important to buy an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. It is recommended that you register your crib with the CPSC that will permit you to receive recall notifications earlier than you would normally.
Cost and style are only two of the many elements that influence the selection of the right crib for your child. A few of these factors are personal preference, like whether to choose flat panels or slats while others are more practical and crucial, such as crib size and the mattress's height. There are various types of cribs, ranging from compact models that can fit in smaller spaces to larger ones that can convert into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs available are designed to be more flexible than others which allows 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, and even a full-size toddler daybed, making it perfect for families that are growing. Its small width makes it easy to move, while its circular shape creates a womb-like space for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are also good alternatives. Both cribs feature modern, minimalist designs that will complement any decor in the nursery. These cribs are made of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for children's hands and mouths. This reduces the chance of SIDS. The cribs have four levels of adjustable mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
Most modern cribs can be erected in an hour or less. They also come with an extensive instruction manual as well as the necessary tools, so you don't have to buy the cribs separately.
Baby beds that we reviewed met the CPSC safety standards. However there were some cribs with more components than others. Be sure to carefully read the instructions before attempting the assembly.