Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're looking for a crib, you'll want one that meets high safety standards, which are outlined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to find one that is suitable for your space and budget.
Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib that is made of sustainable wood and a convertible crib that grows as a toddler into a bed and daybed; 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 good crib. If you are purchasing a brand new crib or replacing one that is older, ensure the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads or positioners as well as other products that raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These items have been associated with SIDS and other suffocation injuries among infants.
To ensure the safety of your baby ensure your baby's safety, choose a crib that has the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals indicate that the crib was tested by a third-party, and that it has met the highest standards of safety. Mattresses that are soft can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats need to be no more than two and three quarter inches apart in order to prevent the baby's head from getting trapped between them. Also, check that the posts at the corners are not higher than 1/16 inch to stop a baby's clothing from getting caught on them.
Additionally, if you are considering buying a used crib, check that it has not been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also important to purchase 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 cause lead poisoning.
If you do decide to purchase a convertible crib, make sure that the conversion kits meet CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to convert into a toddler or full-size mattress. However, crib sets 're not always easy to assemble and may require a professional to install.
A quality crib should have slats and sides that are strong enough to prevent the crib from shifting or collapsing with time. It should have a sturdy enough bottom drawer to hold toys and clothes. The drawer must also be able to close and lock in a secure way so that your child is unable to remove the contents. Additionally, it should be able to hold the weight of a bulky blanket or quilt without sagging.
Design
Finding a crib that fits your style of decorating is a great way to have fun. There are a myriad of cribs available, with modern and sleek options to classic designs. The slats are often of different heights and some include toddler conversion kits in case your baby is ready to move up. Mattress height and crib size are also important features to consider.
Cribs are typically made from wood, but not all cribs are made of wood. crib sets are made from hardwood, which is more dense and is derived from deciduous trees which lose their leaves in the winter. Others are made of softwood which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both have their benefits, but if you're looking for a crib that will last through several children, it's best to choose a hardwood option.
A crib that is well-constructed is designed for comfort and safety. It shouldn't have sharp corners or any other hazards that could trap children's fingers or their legs. It should have a wide enough opening to change the sheets easily. It is also crucial to make sure the crib is properly anchored to its place and not close to any windows or other possible dangers.
If you're shopping for 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 designed to avoid SIDS and cover a range of aspects such as the size of the crib and the type mattress you use.
Most of the cribs we looked at have met or exceeded these standards However, some cribs are more stringent than others. The Evolur Newbury crib, for example, is GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of 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, spindle load support, and heavy and chemical content.
It's more expensive than a few of the other cribs we looked at but it's an excellent option if you're looking for a modern and stylish crib that will last several siblings. It's also a bit more substantial than some of the cribs we examined and will make more space in your bedroom than some of the smaller cribs we looked at. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, meaning it may not be the ideal choice for a minimal nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made of sturdy and safe materials that won't cause damage or break over time. It must also be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. No matter if you choose innerspring or foam mattress, it must meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should also be firm, because soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. If you opt for the foam mattress, search for one that has CertiPUR-US certification. This means that the foam is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs, and TCEP fire retardants. It must also be free of metal coils or other dangerous chemicals. Another alternative is natural latex which is known as a durable and long-lasting material that is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent example of a wood crib that is made to last. It comes with four mattress levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be transformed into a toddler bed or day bed, and later a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design blends into any nursery decor, and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safety and healthy environment.
If they show signs that they are worn out or not being properly maintained or assembled It is the right time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts that can trap a baby's head, arms or legs; chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances; splinters and other construction details that could be dangerous like poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Additionally, bumpers, wedges and other ornamental items are not recommended as they also pose dangers to the health of a baby.
Romina is a family-owned company that makes safe, beautiful and eco-friendly wooden bassets, cradles, and cribs. Amish craftsmen in Ohio create their furniture using sustainable wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are stronger than glues or nails, and they employ the kiln-dried wood. Their products are available at many specialty stores across the US and Canada. They are also available on the internet. They have a wide range of paint and stain choices, as well as different hardware options.
Cost
Cribs are expensive It is therefore important to consider your budget before buying one. The best crib will enhance the value of your nursery and will save money over time. In addition to being durable the best crib will be simple to assemble and look great in the nursery. It is crucial to choose a crib that is compliant with 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 the crib that is best for your child, including style and cost. A few of these factors are personal preference, such as whether to use flat panels or slats while others are more practical and crucial for crib sizes and mattress height. There are also different types of cribs, from compact models that can fit in smaller spaces to larger ones that transform into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the most popular cribs available are designed to be more flexible than others and allow parents to get a lot of use from them and to grow with their children. For instance, the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet midi crib, a midi toddler bed, and even a full-size toddler daybed, making it ideal for families that are growing. Its small width and wheels make it easy to move around in, while its unique circular shape creates a womb-like environment for babies.
Other cribs that are worth considering include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both cribs are sleek, minimalistic 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. These cribs come with four levels of adjustable mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
Most modern cribs can be assembled within an hour or less. They also come with a detailed instruction manual as well as the essential tools, so you don't have to purchase them separately. The cribs we examined conformed to the safety standards of the CPSC, but some included more components than others, so make sure to read the directions carefully before attempting the assembly.