Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're shopping for a crib, you'll want one that meets the highest safety standards, as defined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that fits in your space and budget.
Our top picks are a contemporary minimalist crib made of wood that is sustainable, a convertible crib which grows with the baby into a daybed and toddler bed, and a Delta Children crib that comes in a range of appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important features of a quality crib. If you're buying the crib for the first time or replacing one that is old, ensure the mattress and bedding meet government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads, positioners, and other products that can raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These items have been associated with SIDS and other suffocation injuries among infants.
If you are looking 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 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 at least two and three-quarter inches apart in order to prevent the baby's head from getting trapped between them. Make sure that the posts on the corners do not exceed 1/16 inches in height to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on them.
If you're thinking about buying a used crib, be sure it hasn't been involved in any accidents or recalls. It is also recommended to purchase a crib that has paint that is free of lead. This is because babies who are teething may chew on the rails and lead poisoning can result.
Lastly, if purchasing a convertible crib make sure that the conversion kit is in line with CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to be converted into a toddler or full-size mattress. However, they are not always simple to put together and may require a professional to install.
A good crib should also have slats and sides that are strong enough to prevent the crib from shifting or collapsing in the course of time. It should also have a bottom for the drawer that is strong enough to hold toys and clothing. Furthermore, the drawer must close and lock securely to prevent your child from ripping out the contents. It should also be able take the weight of large quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
The crib is the center of any nursery, therefore finding one that matches your decorating style can be a rewarding task. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, from sleek modern options to classic-looking designs. The slats are often different in height, and some come 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 consider.
Cribs are generally made from wood, though they are not all created equally. Some are constructed from hardwood, which is more dense and comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter, while others are made of softwood which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have their benefits However, if you're searching for a crib that will last for a long time it is best to select a hardwood crib.
A crib that is well-designed to ensure safety and comfort. cot sets have sharp corners or any other potential hazards which could cause injury to a child's fingers or leg. It should also have a wide enough opening that allows for easy sheet swaps. It is also crucial to ensure that the crib is securely fixed within its space, and not placed close to windows or other possible dangers.
If you're looking to buy a crib, it's important to be aware of the safety guidelines that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. These standards are focused on the prevention of SIDS and cover a range of aspects including the size of the crib as well as the kind of mattress you choose to use.
Most of the cribs we examined meet or exceed these standards, but some are more stringent than others. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is GreenGuard Gold-certified and is made from sustainably-sourced hardwood with non-toxic finishes. It also meets or surpasses the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for build quality and spindle load support and heavy and chemical content.
It's more expensive than a few of the other cribs we reviewed, but it's a great option for those looking for a modern and stylish crib that will last several siblings. It's also more substantial than some of the cribs we examined and will have more space in your room than the smaller cribs we reviewed. It's got more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it may not be suitable for an uncluttered nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed of sturdy and safe materials that won't damage or break over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can sleep comfortably. No matter if you choose innerspring or foam the mattress must be in compliance with CPSC safety standards. It should also be firm as mattresses that are soft can increase SIDS risk. Find a mattress that has the CertiPUR US certification. This means the mattress is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and TCEP fire retardants. It should not contain any metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Another option is natural latex, which is known as an extremely durable and long-lasting substance that's free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great example of a wood crib built to last. It comes with four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be made into an infant bed or a day bed, and later an adult-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will blend into any nursery decor, and its non-toxic materials will ensure your baby's safety and healthy environment.
Old cribs need to be replaced if they show signs of wear or have not been properly maintained or assembled. This includes decorative cutouts which can hold the baby's head in place or legs, chips in paints that can expose them to harmful substances, splinters and other construction elements that are unsafe, such as slats not evenly spaced or drop sides. Additionally, bumpers, wedges and other items of decoration are not recommended as they can also pose risks 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 handcrafted 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. The products are sold in numerous specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also purchase them online. They offer a wide selection of paint and stain choices, as well as different hardware options.
Cost
Cribs are expensive, so it is important to consider your budget before purchasing one. A crib that is well-designed can add value to your nursery, and you will save money over time. Apart from being durable the best crib will be simple to put together and will look beautiful in the nursery. It is also important to select cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with CPSC will allow you to receive recall notices earlier than if you did not register your crib.
Many factors influence the crib that is best for your child, such as the design and price. A few of these factors are personal preference, like whether to choose flat panels or slats, while others are more practical and essential, such as crib size and the mattress's height. There are various types of cribs, from small cribs that can be tucked away in smaller spaces to larger ones that can convert into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs on the market are designed to be more flexible than others, allowing parents to get plenty of use from the crib and develop with their children. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, can be converted into a bassinet or midi crib. It can also be transformed into an midi toddler's crib or a daybed that is full-sized. Its small width allows it to be moved easily and its circular shape creates a womb-like space for babies.
Other cribs that are worth considering include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both feature sleek, minimalist designs that complement any nursery decor. They are made of sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' mouths and hands, which reduces the risk of SIDS. These cribs also come with four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted, so you can move the mattress up as your baby grows.
Modern cribs are easy to put together, and take about an hour or less from start to completion. The cribs come with a manual for assembly, as well as the tools needed. There is no need to purchase them separately. The cribs we tested conformed to the safety standards of the CPSC however some had more components than others, so make certain to read the instructions carefully before you attempt assembly.