Shopping For Good Cribs
When shopping for a crib you should ensure that it meets the standards of safety that are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that is compatible with your space and your budget.
Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib constructed from eco-friendly wood and a convertible crib that can be transformed with the baby into a daybed and toddler bed as well as a Delta Children crib that comes with a variety of appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements 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 other bedding meets government safety standards. Also, avoid bumper pads and sleep positioners as well as other items that lift your infant or create a slanted sleeping surface. These items are known 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 was inspected by a third-party, and that it is in compliance with the highest standards of safety. Mattresses with soft surfaces can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be no more than two and three quarter inches apart to prevent the infant's head getting trapped between them. Also, ensure that the corner posts aren't more than 1/16 inch high to stop a baby's clothing from catching on them.
If you are thinking of buying a used crib, check that it has not been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also essential to purchase a crib that has paint that is lead-free. This is due to the fact that babies who are teething can chew the rails and lead poisoning can result.
Also, if you purchase a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits let you transform the crib into a full-size toddler bed or a bed. However, they are not always easy to assemble and may require a professional installation.
In addition to these attributes, a great crib should have solid sides and slats, which are strong enough to stop the crib from falling over or shifting over time. It should also have a strong enough bottom drawer to hold clothing and toys. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to keep your child from taking out the contents. Additionally, it should be able to withstand the weight of a heavy quilt or blanket without sagging.
Design
Finding a crib that matches your style of decoration is a great way to have fun. There are a myriad of cribs available, with modern and sleek options to classic-looking models. The slats are often different in height and some include toddler conversion kits for when your baby is ready to move up. The mattress's height and the crib's size are also important features to consider.
Cribs are generally made from wood, though not all are created equally. Some are constructed from hardwood, which is denser and is derived from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the winter. Others are made from softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both options have their advantages but if your goal is to purchase a crib that will last for many children, hardwood is the best choice.
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 must also have a large enough opening to allow for easy sheet changes. It is also essential to make sure the crib is securely fixed within its space, and not placed near any windows or other possible dangers.
When you are shopping for a new crib, it is important to be aware of the safety guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a range of factors such as the dimensions of your crib as well as the type mattress you use.
The majority of cribs we looked at have met or exceeded these standards, but some are more strict than others. The Evolur Newbury crib is, for instance, GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of sustainably-sourced hardwood with non-toxic finishes. It also meets or surpasses 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 choice if you want an elegant modern crib that can last several siblings. It's also more sturdy than other cribs that we have reviewed. It also takes up more space in your room as compared to the smaller ones we have examined. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it may not be the ideal choice for a minimal nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made of sturdy and safe materials that won't cause damage or break down over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. If you opt for foam or innerspring 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. Find a mattress that is CertiPUR US certification. This means the mattress is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and fire retardants. It should also have no metal coils or any other hazardous chemicals. Natural latex is an alternative. It is a strong, long-lasting and chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great example of a wood crib built to last. It has four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted to a toddler bed or day bed and then a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will blend in with any nursery decor and its non-toxic materials will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced if they show signs of wear or aren't properly maintained or assembled. They include cutouts with decorative designs that could trap a baby's head, arms or legs; chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and construction elements that are unsafe such as poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Additionally, items that are decorative such as bumpers, wedges and other ornamental pieces should be avoided, because they could pose health hazards for infants.
Romina is a family-owned business that manufactures beautiful, safe, and eco-friendly wooden bassinets, cradles, and cribs. The furniture is made in Ohio by Amish craftsmen made of solid wood that's sustainably harvested. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are stronger than glues or nails, and they use heated wood. The products are sold in numerous specialty stores across the US and Canada. They are also available online. They provide a range of different stain and paint options, along with various hardware options.
Cost
It is important to consider your budget when buying a crib. A crib that is well-designed can add value to your nursery and can 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 important to choose a crib that adheres to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with the CPSC will allow you to get recall notices much sooner than if you did not register your crib.
top rated cots go into deciding the best crib for your child, such as the design and price. Certain of these aspects, like the use of slats versus flat panels, are just personal preference, while other like the size of the crib and mattress' height, are more practical. There are also different types of cribs, ranging from compact options that fit into smaller spaces to larger ones that can convert into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the most popular cribs available are designed to be more adaptable than others which allows parents to get a lot of use out of them and to grow with their children. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be turned into a bassinet or midi-crib. It can also be transformed into a midi toddler's bed or a daybed that is full-sized. Its small width and wheels make it simple to move around, and its unique circular shape allows for the illusion of a womb for infants.
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 nursery decor. They are made of sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' mouths and hands, reducing the chance of SIDS. The cribs have four adjustable levels of mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be assembled within an hour or less. The cribs come with an instruction manual and the necessary tools. You don't need to purchase them separately. The cribs we reviewed all met the CPSC's safety requirements however some included more components than others, so make sure to read the instructions carefully before beginning the assembly.