Shopping For Good Cribs
When looking for a crib you should make sure that it meets the standards of safety that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll want to find one that fits your space and budget.
Our top picks are a modern minimalist crib made of wood that is sustainable and a convertible crib that can be transformed with the baby into an adult daybed and a Delta Children crib that comes in a variety of visually appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important aspects of a good crib is its security. If you're buying a new crib or replacing one that is old make sure the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Also, stay clear of bumper pads or sleep positioners, as well as other objects that can lift your infant or create a slanted sleeping surface. These objects have been linked to SIDS and suffocation injuries in infants.
To ensure the safety of your baby 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 met the highest standards of safety. In addition the mattress must be firm, since soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be spaced at least 2 and 3/8 inches apart, to prevent an infant's head from getting stuck between them. Also, make sure that the corner posts aren't more than 1/16 inches high to prevent a baby's clothes from catching on them.
If you're thinking of buying a used crib, be sure it's not involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also important to purchase a crib that has paint that is lead-free. This is due to the fact that infants who are teething can chew on the rails, which can cause lead poisoning.
In the end, if you opt to buy a convertible crib, make sure that the conversion kits meet CPSC standards. These kits permit the crib to be transformed to a toddler or a full-size mattress. However, they aren't always easy to assemble and may require professional installation.
In addition to these features, a good crib should have sturdy sides and slats. These are strong enough to keep the crib from crashing or shifting in the course of time. It should have a thick enough bottom that can hold clothing and toys. The drawer should also be able to close and lock securely so that your child cannot remove the contents. It should also be able take the weight of large quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, so choosing one that matches your decorating 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 are usually different in height and some are equipped with toddler conversion kits to help you when your baby is ready to move up. Mattress height and crib size are also important features to take into consideration.
Cribs are usually constructed from wood, however not all cribs are created equal. Some cribs are constructed of hardwood which has a greater density and comes from deciduous trees, which lose their leaves during winter. Some cribs are made of softwood that is lighter and comes from evergreens. Both options have their advantages however if your objective is to purchase a crib that will last for several children hardwood is the ideal choice.
A quality crib is built for comfort and safety. It should not have sharp corners or any other dangers that could cause injury to a child's fingers or leg. It should have a wide enough opening that allows you to change the sheets easily. It is also essential to make sure the crib is properly anchored in its room and is not placed near any windows or other dangers that could be posed.
If you're looking to buy a crib, you need to know the safety standards that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are geared towards preventing SIDS and cover a range of aspects including the size of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
Some cribs are more rigorous than others, but the majority of them meet or exceed the standards. The Evolur Newbury crib is, for instance, GreenGuard Gold-certified and is made from sustainable-sourced hardwood and non-toxic finishes. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA requirements, CFR and ASTM for build quality, spindle support chemical and heavy metal content, and ASTM requirements.
It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs we reviewed however if you're looking for a modern and stylish crib for your baby that can last for many generations, this is a great option. It's also a bit more substantial than the cribs we examined, and it will take up more square footage in your room than the smaller cribs we examined. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, meaning it may not be the ideal choice for a small nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made with durable and safe materials that will not cause harm or break over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. Whether you opt for innerspring or foam, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It must also be firm since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Find a mattress that has CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is free of ozone-depleting chemicals, PBDEs, and TCEP fire retardants. It should also have no metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is a different option. It is a durable, long-lasting and chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is a great example of a premium crib made of wood. It comes with four mattress levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed, day bed or a full-sized bed to meet the needs of your child as they grow. Its classic design can fit in with any decor for your nursery and its non-toxic construction will ensure your baby's environment is safe and healthy.
Old cribs need to be replaced if they show signs of wear or aren't correctly assembled or maintained. This includes cutouts with decorative designs that can keep the baby's head from being trapped, arms and legs, chipped paints that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and dangerous construction details such as slats not evenly spaced or drop sides. Also, wedges, bumpers and other items of decoration should be avoided because they also pose dangers for a baby's health.
Romina is a family-owned firm that makes safe, beautiful and eco-friendly wooden bassinets cribs, cradles and cribs. Their furniture is handcrafted in Ohio by Amish craftsmen made of solid wood that's sustainable harvested. They use mortise-and-tenon joints that are more durable than glues or nails, and they employ the kiln-dried wood. Their products are available in specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy these products on the internet. They offer a wide selection 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. But, the right crib can add a lot of value to your nursery and help you save money in the long term. Apart from being durable the best crib will be simple to put together and will look beautiful in the nursery. It is also essential to choose cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. It is recommended that you register your crib with the CPSC and this will enable you to receive recall notices sooner than you would normally.
Cost and style are only two of the many factors that influence the selection of the best crib for your child. Some of these are personal preference, such as whether to choose flat panels or slats, while others are more practical and important, such as crib size and mattress height. There are many different types of cribs. Some are compact and fit into small spaces, while others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
The best cribs are designed to be more adaptable than other cribs. This lets parents make use of cribs for a longer period of time and to grow with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be transformed into a bassinet or midi crib. It can also be turned into a midi toddler's bed, or a large daybed. Its narrow width and wheels make it simple to move around, while its unique circular shape creates the illusion of a womb for infants.
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 from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little mouths and hands, reducing the chance of SIDS. These cribs also come with four adjustable levels of mattress support which allows you to move the mattress up as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs can be assembled in an hour or less. The cribs come with a manual for assembly and the necessary tools. There is no need to purchase cribs separately. Baby Cot Bed that we reviewed were in compliance with CPSC safety requirements. However there were some cribs with more components than others. Be sure to carefully read the instructions prior to beginning the assembly.