Shopping For Good Cribs
When shopping for a crib you will want to ensure that it meets the strict safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll want to find one that fits your budget and space.
Our top picks are a contemporary minimalist crib constructed from eco-friendly wood and a convertible crib that expands with the baby to the toddler bed and daybed as well as a Delta Children crib that comes in a range of appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important features of a crib that is safe. Whether you are shopping for your first crib or replacing an older one, make sure the mattress and bedding meets government safety standards. Avoid using bumper pads, positioners, and other products that can 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 with suffocation injuries in infants.
To ensure your baby's safety, look for a crib that has the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals indicate that the crib was inspected by a third-party, and that it meets the highest standards of safety. In addition, the mattress should be firm, since mattresses with soft surfaces increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats need to be at least two and three quarter inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Also, ensure that the posts at the corners are not more than 1/16 inch high to prevent a baby's clothes from catching on them.
Additionally, if you are considering purchasing a used crib, ensure that it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also essential to buy a crib that uses lead-free paint. This is because teething infants may chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
If you are considering buying a convertible crib make sure that the conversion kit is in line with CPSC standards. These kits let you transform the crib into a full-size toddler bed or a bed. They're not always easy to assemble and may require professional installation.
A good crib should also have strong sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from shifting or collapsing with time. It must also have a bottom for the drawer that is thick enough to hold clothing and toys. The drawer should also be able close and lock tightly so that your child is unable to pull out the contents. It should also be able support the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, so choosing one that fits your decor style can be a rewarding task. There are many different cribs available, from sleek modern options to classic designs. Some cribs come with slats that are different heights and come with toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to go to the next level. Mattress height and crib size are also important factors to consider.
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 shed their leaves in the winter. Some cribs are made of softwood which is lighter, and is sourced from evergreens. Both have their advantages however, if you're looking for a crib that can last through several children it is best to select the hardwood option.
A crib that is well-designed to ensure safety and comfort. It should have no sharp corners or other potential hazards that could trap little ones fingers or legs. It should also have a large enough opening to allow for easy sheet changes. It is also essential to make sure the crib is properly anchored in its room and not close to windows or other dangers that could be posed.
If you're in the market for cribs, it's crucial to be aware of 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 variety of aspects that include the dimensions of your crib as well as the type mattress you use.
The majority of cribs we looked at are in compliance with these standards or even exceed them, but some are more strict than others. For example, the Evolur Newbury crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made from sustainably sourced wood and non-toxic paints. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM specifications for building quality, spindle load support, and heavy metal and chemical content.
It's more expensive than many of the other cribs we looked at, but it's a great option for those looking for a modern and stylish crib that will last several siblings. It's also larger than other cribs that we have reviewed. It also takes up more space in your bedroom as compared to the smaller cribs we have looked at. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, meaning it might not be the ideal choice for a minimal nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made from sturdy and safe materials that won't damage or splinter over time. It should be easy to clean so that your baby can rest comfortably. If you choose to use innerspring or foam mattresses, the mattress must meet CPSC safety standards. It should be firm as well, as soft mattresses can increase SIDS risk. Choose a 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 have no metal coils or any other hazardous chemicals. Natural latex is an alternative. It is a strong and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent model of a wooden crib that is made to last. It has four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be made into a toddler bed or a day bed, and later an adult-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will blend into any nursery decor, and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safety and healthy environment.
If they have signs that they are worn out or aren't being properly maintained or assembled, it is time to replace them. This includes cutouts with decorative designs that can hold the baby's head in place or legs and arms, chipped paints that may expose them to harmful substances, splinters and dangerous construction details such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. Also, decorative objects such as bumpers, wedges and other pieces of decor should be avoided, because they may pose health risks for infants.
Romina is a family-owned company that makes safe, beautiful and eco-friendly wooden bassets as well as cribs, cradles, and cradles. Amish craftsmen from Ohio make their furniture using sustainably harvested solid wood. They use mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than nails or glues, and they use kiln-dried wood. Their products are available at many specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also purchase the items online. They provide a range of paint and stain options, in addition to an array of hardware.
Cost
It is essential to think about your budget when buying a crib. The right crib will add value to your nursery and will save money over time. Apart from being durable the best crib will be easy 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 to register your crib with the CPSC, which will allow you to receive recall notices sooner than you normally.
There are many factors that influence which crib is right for your child, including the style and cost. A few of these factors are personal preference, like whether to use slats or flat panels, while others are more practical and important for crib sizes and mattress height. There are a variety of cribs. Some are compact and can fit in smaller spaces and others can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs are designed to be more adaptable than others. This allows parents to utilize them for a longer period of time and also to grow with their child. For example, the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, a midi crib, a midi toddler bed, or even a full-size toddler or daybed, which makes it the ideal choice for families with growing children. Its narrow width and wheels make it simple to move around, while its unique circular shape allows for an womb-like space for babies.
Other good cribs include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both cribs have minimalist, sleek designs that compliment any nursery decor. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little mouths and hands, reducing 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 can be put together in a matter of hours or less. They also come with an extensive instruction manual and the required tools, meaning you don't have to buy them separately. The cribs we reviewed all were compliant with the CPSC's safety guidelines However, some cribs had more components than others, so be certain to read the instructions carefully before you attempt assembly.