Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're looking for a crib, you'll want one that is safe and meets the highest standards, which are outlined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that is compatible with your space and budget.
Our top picks are a contemporary, minimalist crib made from sustainable wood and a convertible crib that can be transformed with the baby into an adult daybed and a Delta Children crib that comes with a variety of attractive colors.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important characteristics of a good crib. If you're buying a new crib or replacing one that's older make sure the mattress and bedding are in compliance with government safety standards. Also, avoid bumper pads and sleep positioners as well as other products that raise your child up or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These items have been associated with SIDS and suffocation injuries in infants.
If you want to ensure the safety of your child, choose a crib with 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 that it has met the highest standards of safety. Additionally the mattress must be firm, since mattresses with soft surfaces 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 caught between them. Also, check that the corner posts aren't more than 1/16 inch high to stop a baby's clothing from getting caught on them.
If you're thinking of buying a used crib make sure it's not involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also crucial to buy a crib that uses lead-free paint. This is because infants who are teething may chew on the rails, which can cause lead poisoning.
In the end, if you decide to purchase a convertible crib, make sure whether the conversion kits are compliant with CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to convert to a toddler or a full-size mattress. However, they're not always simple to construct and may require a professional to install.
A good crib should also be built with sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from shifting or collapsing with time. It must also have a drawer bottom that is sturdy enough to support toys and clothing. The drawer should also be able close and lock securely so that your child cannot take the contents. It should also be able hold the weight of heavy blankets or quilts without sagging.
Design
Finding a crib that matches your style of decoration can be a lot of fun. There are a variety of cribs, ranging from sleek contemporary designs to classic designs. Some cribs have slats of different heights, and include toddler conversion kits once your child is ready to move on. nursery cots to consider are mattress height, and crib size.
Cribs are usually constructed from wood, however not all cribs are made of wood. Some cribs are constructed of hardwood, which has a higher density and comes from deciduous trees, which lose their leaves during the winter. Some cribs are made of softwood which is lighter, and is sourced from evergreens. Both options have their advantages, but if your goal is to buy an affordable crib that will last for many children hardwood is the best choice.
A crib that is well-constructed is designed to provide safety and comfort. It shouldn't have sharp corners or other hazards that could entrap a child's fingers or leg. It must also have a large enough opening to allow for easy sheet changes. It is also essential that the crib is properly secured to its place and not placed near windows or other potential dangers.
If you're looking to buy 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 prevent SIDS and cover a range of aspects that include the dimensions of your crib as well as the mattress you choose to use.
Certain cribs are more strict than others, but the majority of them are in line with or surpass the standards. 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 exceeds the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for build quality as well as spindle load support and chemical and heavy metal content.
It's more expensive than some of the other cribs we reviewed however it's a great choice if you want a stylish modern crib that will last many siblings. It's also a bit more substantial than the other cribs we reviewed and will have more space in your room than some of the smaller cribs we reviewed. It's more exposed to hardware than other cribs, so it may not be suitable for an open-plan nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made with durable and safe materials that will not cause harm or break down over time. It should be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. Whether you choose innerspring or foam it must be in compliance with CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should also be firm, because soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. Choose a mattress that has CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is made free of PBDEs, ozone depleters, and TCEP flame retardants. It should also not contain metal coils or any other hazardous chemicals. Another alternative 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 premium wooden crib. It comes with four mattress-level levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be made into a toddler bed or a day bed, and later a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design can fit in with any nursery decor and its non-toxic design will ensure that your baby's environment is healthy and safe.
If they show signs that they are damaged or are not being properly assembled or maintained it is time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts which could trap the baby's head or legs and arms, chipped paints that can expose them to harmful substances, splinters, and dangerous construction details like slats that are not properly spaced or drop sides. Additionally, items that are decorative like wedges, bumpers and other ornamental pieces are not recommended, as they can pose health risks to infants.
Romina is a family-owned business that makes safe, beautiful, and eco-friendly wooden bassinets as well as cribs, cradles, and cradles. Amish craftsmen from Ohio make their furniture using sustainable solid wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than nails or glues, and they use kiln-dried wood. The products are available in specialty stores across the US and Canada. They can also be purchased online. They provide a range of paint and stain options, along with an array of hardware.
Cost
It is important to take into consideration your budget when purchasing a crib. The right crib can add value to your nursery and will save money over time. A quality crib is sturdy and easy to set up and looks stunning in the nursery. It is also essential to select cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. It is recommended to register your crib with the CPSC and this will enable you to receive recall notices sooner than you would otherwise.
Style and cost are just two of the many aspects that go into choosing the ideal crib for your child. Some of these factors are personal preference, such as whether you want to use flat panels or slats while others are more practical and important, such as crib size and mattress height. There are a variety of cribs. Some are small and fit into tiny spaces and others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the best cribs are designed to be more adaptable than other cribs. This allows parents to make use of them for a longer amount of time, and to develop with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be transformed into a bassinet or midi-crib. It can also be converted into a midi toddler's bed, or a large daybed. Its small width and wheels allow it to move around, while its unique circular shape allows for the illusion of a womb for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are also excellent alternatives. Both feature sleek minimalist designs that are perfect for any nursery decor. These cribs are made from sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for children's hands and mouths. This reduces the risk of SIDS. These cribs also come with four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted that allow you to raise the mattress higher as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs can be assembled in an hour or less. The cribs come with a manual for assembly along with the necessary tools. There is no need to purchase the cribs separately. All cribs we examined met the CPSC safety standards. However, some cribs had more components than others. Be sure to read the instructions prior to beginning the assembly.