Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're looking for a crib, you'll need 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 fits into your space and your budget.
Our top picks are a modern, minimalist crib made from sustainable wood and a convertible crib that expands with the baby to a daybed and toddler bed and a Delta Children crib that comes in a variety of appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important features of a quality crib. If you are purchasing the crib for the first time or replacing one that's older make sure that the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Also, avoid bumper pads and sleep positioners as well as other products that raise your child up or create an angled 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 baby 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 has been inspected by a third-party and meets the highest safety requirements. Soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be at least two and three-quarter inches apart to prevent the infant's head getting trapped between them. Check that the corner posts don't exceed 1/16 inches in height to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on them.
Additionally, if you are thinking of buying a used crib, ensure 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 due to the fact that infants who are teething can chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
Lastly, if you choose to purchase a convertible crib, check whether the conversion kits are compliant with CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to be transformed to a toddler or a full-size mattress. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may need professional installation.
A quality crib should have slats and sides that are strong enough to prevent the crib from slipping or collapsing in the course of time. It should have a sturdy enough drawer bottom to support toys and clothes. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to stop your child from ripping out the contents. It should also be able hold the weight of heavy blankets or quilts without sagging.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so finding one that is in line with your decor style can be a fun task. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, with modern and sleek options to classic-looking designs. Some cribs feature slats of different heights and come with toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to move on. Other things to consider are the mattress's height, as well as the crib size.
Cribs are usually made of wood, but not all cribs are the same. Some are made of hardwood, which is heavier 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 options have advantages but if your goal is to purchase a crib that will last for many children, hardwood is the best option.
A good crib is designed for safety and comfort. cots4tots should have no sharp edges or other dangers that could entrap little ones fingers or legs. It should have a large enough opening to allow changing of sheets easily. It is also essential to make sure the crib is properly anchored within its space, and not placed close to windows or other possible dangers.
If you're looking to buy cribs, it's crucial to know the safety standards that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are geared towards preventing SIDS, and they take into account a variety of factors including the size of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
Most of the cribs we reviewed are in compliance with these standards or even exceed them however some are more strict than others. The Evolur Newbury crib, for example, is GreenGuard Gold-certified and is made from sustainably-sourced hardwood with non-toxic finishes. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA requirements, CFR and ASTM for spindle support, build quality as well as heavy and chemical content and ASTM requirements.
It's more expensive than many cribs we examined but it's an excellent option for those looking for a stylish modern crib that will last through several siblings. It's also a little more substantial than some of the other cribs we reviewed, and it will make more space in your room than the smaller cribs we reviewed. It has more exposed hardware than other cribs which means it's not suitable for an uncluttered nursery.
Materials
A crib should be built with materials that are durable and safe, so they won't break or splinter over time. It should be easy to clean so that your child can sleep comfortably. If you opt for foam or innerspring it must be in compliance with CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should also be firm as mattresses that are soft can increase SIDS risk. Choose a mattress that has the CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is free of ozone-depleting chemicals, PBDEs, and TCEP fire retardants. It should not contain metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is another option. It is a strong long-lasting, chemical-free and long-lasting material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is a good example of a high-quality wood crib. It features four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they grow. Its classic design will blend into any decor in the nursery and its non-toxic materials will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment.
Old cribs need to be replaced if they are showing signs of wear or have not been properly maintained or assembled. They include cutouts with decorative designs that can trap a baby's head, arms, or legs and 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, bumpers, wedges, and other decorative items should be avoided because they also pose dangers to a baby's health.
Romina is a family-owned business that makes safe, beautiful, and eco-friendly wooden bassinets, cradles, and cribs. The furniture is made in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that is sustainable harvested. They make use of mortise and tenon joints, which are stronger than nails or glues, and they use kiln-dried wood. Their products are available at many specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They are also available on the internet. They offer a variety of paint and stain options as well as a variety of hardware options.
Cost
Cribs are costly, so it is important to think about your budget prior to buying one. However, the right crib can add value to your nursery and help you save money in the long term. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to set up and looks beautiful in the nursery. It is also essential to choose cribs that conform to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with the CPSC will permit you to receive recall notices earlier than if you did not register your crib.
Many factors influence which crib is right for your child, including style and cost. Some of these factors are personal preferences, such as whether you want to use flat panels or slats, while others are more practical and essential for crib sizes and mattress height. There are a variety of cribs. Some are compact and can fit in small spaces, while others can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the best cribs are designed to be more adaptable than others. This lets parents make use of them for a longer period of time and to grow with their child. For instance, the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, mini crib, a midi toddler bed, and even a full-size toddler or daybed, making it perfect for growing families. Its slim width allows it to be moved easily and its circular shape creates a womb-like environment for babies.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are excellent alternatives. Both cribs have sleek, minimalistic designs that will complement any decor in the nursery. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' mouths and hands, reducing the chance of SIDS. The cribs come with four levels of mattress support, so you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be assembled in an hour or less. The cribs come with a manual for assembly and the tools needed. It is not necessary to purchase them separately. All cribs we examined conformed to the CPSC safety requirements. However there were some cribs with more parts than others. Be sure to carefully read the instructions before attempting assembly.