Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're shopping 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 also want one that fits into your space and your budget.
Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib that is made of sustainable wood; a convertible crib that grows as a toddler into a daybed and bed as well as a multi-functional crib from Delta Children that comes in several visually appealing colorways.
Safety
One of the most important aspects of a crib that is worth buying is its security. If you are looking for your first crib or replacing an older crib, make sure the mattress and other bedding meets government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads, positioners, and other items which elevate your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These items are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked with suffocation injuries in infants.
If you are looking 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 prove that the crib was inspected by a third-party and meets the highest standards of safety. Mattresses with soft surfaces can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be not more than two and three-quarter inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting trapped between them. Make sure that the corner posts do not exceed 1/16 inch in height, to ensure that baby's clothing doesn't get caught 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 recommended to purchase cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is because infants who are teething may chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
If you do decide to purchase a convertible crib, ensure whether the conversion kits are compliant with CPSC standards. These kits let you convert the crib into an adult bed or a full-size bed. However, they are not always simple to put together and may require a professional installation.
A good crib must have strong sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from slipping or collapsing with time. It should also have a bottom for the drawer that is strong enough to support clothing and toys. Furthermore, the drawer must close and lock securely to keep your baby from pulling out the contents. It should also be able take the weight of large blankets or quilts without sagging.
Design
Finding a crib that is in line with your style of decoration can be fun. There are many cribs, ranging from sleek modern designs to classic designs. Some cribs have slats of different heights, and include toddler conversion kits once your child is ready to move on. Other features to consider include the mattress's height, as well as the crib size.
Cribs are generally made from wood, though not all are made equally. Some are made of hardwood, which is heavier and is sourced from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in the winter. Other cribs are made of softwood, which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both have advantages however if your objective is to buy a crib that can last for several children hardwood is the best choice.
A quality crib is built for comfort and safety. It should not have sharp corners or other potential dangers that could entrap little ones fingers or legs. It must also have a large enough opening that allows for easy sheet swaps. It is also essential to ensure that the crib is properly anchored in its room, and not placed near any windows or other potential dangers.
When you are shopping for a new crib, it is crucial to be aware of safety guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. These standards are focused on preventing SIDS, and they cover a variety of factors including the dimensions of the crib and the type of mattress you use.
Some cribs are more rigorous than others, but the majority of them are in line with or exceed the requirements. The Evolur Newbury crib is, for instance, GreenGuard Gold-certified and is made from sustainably-sourced hardwood with non-toxic finishes. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for quality of construction and spindle load support and heavy metal and chemical content.
It's more expensive than many cribs we reviewed however it's a great option if you're looking for an elegant modern crib that will last many siblings. It's also more substantial than the cribs we looked at, and it will make more space in your bedroom than the smaller cribs we looked at. It's more exposed to hardware than other cribs, which means it's not suitable for an uncluttered nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed of sturdy and safe materials that won't cause damage or break over time. It must be easy to clean, so that your baby can sleep peacefully. No matter if you choose foam or innerspring the mattress must be in compliance with CPSC safety standards. It must also be firm, since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Look for a foam mattress that has the CertiPUR US certification. This means the foam is free of ozone-depleting chemicals, PBDEs, and TCEP fire retardants. It should also not contain metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is a different option. It is a tough, long-lasting and chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great example of a crib made of wood built to last. It has four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed, day bed, and full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they grow. Its classic design will blend in with any nursery decor, and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment.
If they exhibit signs of being worn out or not being properly maintained or assembled, it is time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts which can hold the baby's head in place or legs, chips in paints that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and dangerous construction details such as slats not evenly spaced or drop sides. Additionally, items that are decorative such as wedges, bumpers and other decorative pieces should be avoided as they can pose health risks to infants.
Romina is an eco-friendly beautiful, safe and beautiful family-owned business that manufactures wooden cribs, cradles and bassinets. Amish craftsmen from Ohio create their furniture using sustainable solid wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints, which are stronger than glues or nails and they make use of kiln dried wood. Their products can be found in specialty stores across the US and Canada. They can also be purchased on the internet. They have a variety of paint and stain options, along with a variety of hardware.
Cost
Cribs are costly and it is crucial to think about your budget prior to purchasing one. A crib that is well-designed will add value to your nursery and can save money over time. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to put together and looks stunning in the nursery. It is also important to select cribs that conform to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with the CPSC will enable you to get recall notices much sooner than if you did not register your crib.
Style and cost are just two of the many elements that determine 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 like crib size and mattress height. There are also different types of cribs, ranging from compact models that can fit in smaller spaces to larger ones that be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
The best crib s are made to be more flexible than other cribs. This lets parents use them for a longer period of time and to grow with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, can be converted 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 make it easy to move around, and its unique circular shape allows for a womb-like environment for babies.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are also great options. Both cribs have minimalist, sleek designs that compliment any decor in the nursery. 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 adjustable levels of mattress support that allow you to raise the mattress higher as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs are simple to put together, and take about an hour or less from beginning to completion. They also come with a thorough instruction manual as well as the essential tools, so you don't need to purchase the cribs separately. The cribs we examined conformed to the safety standards of the CPSC however some had more parts than others, so make sure to read the directions carefully before beginning the assembly.