Shopping For Good Cribs
When looking for a crib you will want to 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 need to find one that is suitable for your space and budget.
Our top picks include modern minimalist crib that is made of sustainable wood and a convertible crib that grows as a toddler into a daybed and bed and a plethora of options from Delta Children that comes in several visually appealing colorways.
Safety
One of the most important aspects of a quality crib is its safety. If you are looking for your first crib or replacing an older one ensure that the mattress and bedding meet the safety standards of the government. Avoid bumper pads or positioners as well as other objects that raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These types of objects have been proven to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked to suffocation injuries in infants.
If you are looking to ensure the safety of your child select a crib that bears the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals indicate that the crib has been tested by a third party and has met the highest standards of safety. Additionally, the mattress should be firm as soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be not more than two and three quarter inches apart in order to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Check that the corner posts don't exceed 1/16 inches in height to ensure that baby's clothing doesn't get caught on the posts.
If you're thinking of buying a used crib, be sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also consider buying cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is due to the fact that infants who are teething may chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
In the end, if you decide to purchase a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kits meet CPSC standards. These kits permit you to convert the crib into a toddler bed or full-size bed. However, they are not always easy to assemble and may require professional installation.
In addition to these features, a good crib should have sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from crashing or shifting in the course of time. It should also have a bottom for the drawer that is strong enough to support clothes and toys. Additionally, the drawer should close and lock securely to stop your baby from pulling out the contents. Additionally, it should be able to hold the weight of a bulky blanket or quilt without sliding.
Design
Finding a crib that matches your style of decorating is a great way to have fun. There are many cribs, from sleek contemporary designs to classic designs. Some cribs have slats of different heights, and include toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to move onto the next stage. Other aspects to consider include the mattress's height and crib size.
Cribs are typically made of wood, however not all are created equal. Some cribs are made from hardwood, which has a higher density and is derived from deciduous trees, which lose their leaves during the winter. Others are made of softwood, which is lighter and is sourced from evergreens. nursery cots have their advantages but if your goal is to purchase a crib that can last for several children hardwood is the ideal choice.
A good crib is designed to be safe and comfortable. It should not contain sharp corners or other hazards that could entrap children's fingers or their legs. It should also have a wide enough opening to allow for easy sheet swaps. It is also crucial that the crib be properly anchored to its room and not placed close to windows or other potential dangers.
When you are in the market for a new crib, it is crucial to be aware of safety standards recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to prevent SIDS and cover a range of factors that include the dimensions of your crib as well as the mattress you choose to use.
Certain cribs are more strict than others, however the majority of them meet or exceed the requirements. For example the Evolur Newbury crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made from sustainably-sourced wood with non-toxic paints. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for build quality, spindle load support, and chemical and heavy metal content.
It's more expensive than a few cribs we looked at but it's an excellent option if you're looking for an elegant modern crib that can last multiple siblings. It's also more sturdy than the other cribs we have reviewed. It also takes up more space in your room in comparison to the smaller cribs we've considered. It has more exposed hardware compared to other cribs so it may not be suitable for a minimalist nursery.
Materials
A crib should be built using materials that are strong and safe, so they won't split or break over time. It must be easy to clean, so that your child can sleep peacefully. If you choose to use foam or innerspring mattresses, the mattress must meet CPSC safety standards. It should also be firm, as soft mattresses can increase SIDS risk. Find a mattress that has the CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is manufactured free of PBDEs, ozone depleters, and TCEP flame retardants. It should not contain metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Another alternative is natural latex which is known as a durable and long-lasting material that's free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is a great example of a high-quality wooden crib. It has four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted to a toddler bed or a day bed and then a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design can fit into any nursery decor and its non-toxic construction will ensure your baby's environment is safe and healthy.
Old cribs should be replaced when they are showing signs of wear or have not been correctly assembled or maintained. 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, such as inadequately spaced slats and drop sides. In addition, wedges, bumpers, and other decorative items must be avoided 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 bassinets cribs, cradles and cribs. Amish craftsmen in Ohio make their furniture using sustainable solid wood. They make use of mortise-and-tenon joints which are more durable than glues or nails, and they employ heated wood. The products are available in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They are also available online. They have a wide range of stain and paint choices, as well as different hardware options.
Cost
Cribs are expensive and it is crucial to think about your budget prior to buying one. A crib that is well-designed will enhance the value of your nursery, and you can save money over time. A quality crib is sturdy and easy to put together, and looks great in the nursery. It is essential to purchase an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Registering your crib with CPSC will permit you to receive recall notices earlier than you would otherwise.
The style and price are just two of the many aspects that influence the selection of the best crib for your child. Some of these are personal preferences, such as whether you want to use slats or flat panels, while others are more practical and important like crib size and the mattress's height. There are many different types of cribs. Some are compact and can fit in tiny spaces, while others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs on the market are designed to be more adaptable than others and allow parents to get a lot of use from them and grow with their children. For instance, 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 narrow width and wheels allow it to move around, and its unique circular shape creates an womb-like space for babies.
Other cribs that are worth considering include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both cribs feature modern, minimalist designs that are perfect for any decor for the nursery. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' hands and mouths, reducing the risk of SIDS. They also have four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted which allows you to move the mattress higher as your baby grows.
Modern cribs are easy to assemble, taking about an hour or less from start to finish. The cribs come with a manual for assembly and the necessary tools. It is not necessary to purchase the cribs separately. The cribs we reviewed all conformed to the safety standards of the CPSC however some had more parts than others, so be sure to read the directions carefully before attempting assembly.