Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're looking for a crib, you'll need one that is safe and meets the highest standards, as defined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to choose a crib that is suitable for your space and budget.
Our top picks are a contemporary minimalist crib made of sustainable wood, a convertible crib which expands with the baby to the toddler bed and daybed, and a Delta Children crib that comes in a range of appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a crib that is worth buying is its security. If you are buying the crib for the first time or replacing one that is old, ensure the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Also, avoid using bumper pads, sleep positioners and other objects that can lift your infant or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These types of objects have been proven to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked with suffocation injuries in infants.
To ensure the safety of your baby, look for cribs that bear the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals show that the crib has been tested by a third party and is in compliance with the highest safety requirements. Additionally the mattress must be firm as soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be no 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 do not exceed 1/16 inch in height, to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on the posts.
If you are thinking of purchasing a used crib, make sure that 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 because infants who are teething can chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
If you do opt to buy a convertible crib, make sure that the conversion kits meet CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to be converted into a full-size or toddler mattress. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may require professional installation.
A good crib should also have slats and sides that are strong enough to keep the crib from shifting or collapsing in the course of time. It should have a sturdy enough drawer bottom to support clothes and toys. Furthermore, cot beds must close and lock securely to keep your child from ripping out the contents. It should also be able hold the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
Finding a crib that fits your style of decorating can be fun. There are many cribs, from modern and sleek 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 move up. Other features to consider include mattress height, and crib size.
Cribs are usually constructed from wood, however not all cribs are the same. Some are made of hardwood, which is denser and is sourced from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter, while others are made from softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have their advantages, but if you're looking for a crib that will last through several children it is recommended to choose a hardwood option.
A crib that is well-constructed is designed for comfort and safety. It should not have sharp corners or other potential hazards that could trap the fingers of a child or legs. It should have a large enough opening to allow changing of sheets easily. It is also essential to ensure that the crib is securely anchored to its place and is not placed near any windows or other possible dangers.
If you're shopping for a crib, it's important to know the safety standards that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are designed to assist in preventing SIDS and take into account a variety of factors including the dimensions of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
Certain cribs are more strict than others, but the majority of them meet or exceed the requirements. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is certified by GREENGUARD Gold and is made of sustainable hardwood that is sourced from sustainable sources and has non-toxic finishes. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA requirements, CFR and ASTM for build quality, spindle support as well as heavy and chemical content, and ASTM requirements.
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 many siblings. It is also more substantial than other cribs we have looked at. It will also take up more space in your bedroom in comparison to the smaller cribs we've considered. It's got more exposed hardware compared to other cribs so it may not be suitable for an open-plan nursery.
Materials
A crib should be built with 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 rest comfortably. If you opt for innerspring or foam it must be in compliance with CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should also be firm, since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you decide to purchase the foam mattress, search for one with CertiPUR-US certification. This means that the foam is produced without ozone depleters, PBDEs and TCEP flame retardants. It should also have no metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is an alternative. It is a strong and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great example of a crib made of wood that is built to last. It has four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they develop. Its classic design will blend into any nursery decor and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safety and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced if they show signs of wear or have not been properly assembled or maintained. This includes decorative cutouts that could trap the baby's head or arms and legs, chipped paints that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters, and other construction elements that are unsafe, such as slats not evenly spaced or drop sides. Also, decorative objects such as bumpers, wedges and other pieces of decor should be avoided, because they could pose health hazards to babies.
Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned business that manufactures wooden cribs, cradles and bassinets. Amish craftsmen in Ohio create their furniture using sustainable solid wood. They make use of mortise-and-tenon joints which are more durable than glues and nails, and they utilize heated wood. Their products are available at many specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. You can also buy them on the internet. They provide a range of paint and stain options, along with a variety of hardware.
Cost
Cribs are costly, so it is important to consider your budget before purchasing one. The right crib can add value to your nursery and can save money over time. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to set up and looks beautiful in the nursery. It is crucial to choose an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Registering your crib with the CPSC will permit you to receive recall notifications much earlier than you would otherwise.
Cost and style are only two of the many factors that determine the ideal crib for your child. A few of these factors are personal preferences, such as whether to choose flat panels or slats while others are more practical and important like crib size and the mattress's height. There are a variety of cribs. Some are small and can be tucked away in small spaces, while others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
The best cribs are designed to be more versatile than other cribs. This lets parents use them for a longer amount of time and also to grow with their child. Baby Crib , for example, can be transformed into a bassinet or midi crib. It can also be transformed into an midi toddler's crib or a full-size daybed. Its small width makes it easy to move and its circular design creates a womb-like environment for infants.
Other cribs that are worth considering include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both cribs feature minimalist, sleek designs that are perfect for any nursery decor. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for small mouths and hands, reducing the chance of SIDS. The cribs come with four adjustable levels of mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
Most modern cribs are simple to put together, taking around an hour or less from beginning to finish. The cribs come with a user's manual along with the necessary tools. It is not necessary to purchase cribs separately. All cribs we tested were in compliance with CPSC safety requirements. However, some cribs had more components than others. Make sure you carefully read the instructions before attempting assembly.