Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're looking for a crib, you'll want one that is safe and meets the highest standards, as defined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to find one that fits your space and budget.
Our top picks are a modern, minimalist crib made from eco-friendly wood and a convertible crib that grows with the baby into the toddler bed and daybed, and a Delta Children crib that comes in a range of attractive colors.
Safety
One of the most important aspects of a good crib is its security. If you're buying the crib for the first time or replacing one that is old make sure the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Also, avoid bumper pads and sleep positioners as well as other objects that can lift your child up or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These objects are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked to suffocation-related injuries in infants.
To ensure your baby's safety Look for cribs that bear the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals indicate that the crib has been tested by a third party and is in compliance with the highest safety standards. Soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be spaced between 2 and 3/8 inches apart to avoid an infant's head from getting stuck between them. Make sure the corner posts don't exceed 1/16 inch in height, to avoid a baby's clothing catching on the posts.
In addition, if you're thinking of purchasing a used crib, make sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also buy a crib with lead-free paint. This is because teething babies can chew the rails and cause lead poisoning.
In the end, if you decide to purchase a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kits comply with CPSC standards. These kits permit you to convert the crib into an adult bed or a full-size bed. However, they're not always simple to put together and may require professional installation.
A quality crib should be built with sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from shifting or collapsing with time. It should have a thick enough drawer bottom to support clothes and toys. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to keep your baby from pulling out the contents. It should also be able to take the weight of large quilts or blankets without sliding.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, so choosing one that is in line with your decor style can be a fun task. There are a myriad of cribs available, including modern, sleek models to classic-looking designs. Some cribs come with slats that are different heights and come with toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to move to the next level. Mattress height and crib size are also important factors to consider.
Cribs are generally made from wood, however they are not all created to be the same. Some cribs are constructed of hardwood, which has a higher density and comes from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in the winter. Others are made from softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreens. Both options have advantages, but if your goal is to purchase a crib that can last for several children, hardwood is the best option.
A crib that is well-constructed is designed to ensure safety and comfort. It shouldn't have sharp corners or any other potential hazards which could entrap the child's fingers or legs. It should have a wide enough opening to allow changing of sheets easily. It's also important to make sure the crib is properly anchored to its place and not close to windows or other possible dangers.
If you're shopping for a crib, you need to be aware of the safety guidelines that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. These standards are focused on the prevention of SIDS and cover a variety of factors including the size of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
Some cribs are more rigorous than others, but the majority of them are in line with or exceed the requirements. For example the Evolur Newbury crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made of sustainably-sourced wood using non-toxic paints. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM specifications for building quality and spindle load support and heavy metal and chemical content.
It's more expensive than many of the other cribs we looked at however it's a great option for those looking for a modern and stylish crib that can last many siblings. It's also larger than other cribs that we have reviewed. It will also take up more space in your room compared to some of the smaller cribs we have considered. It's got more exposed hardware than other cribs therefore it might not be suitable for an uncluttered nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed with durable and safe materials that will not cause harm or break down over time. It should also be easy to clean, so that your baby can sleep comfortably. If nursery cots choose to use innerspring or foam, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It must also be firm since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Look for a foam mattress that has CertiPUR US certification. This means the mattress is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and TCEP fire retardants. It shouldn't contain metal coils, or any other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is a different option. It is a strong and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is an excellent example of a top-quality wooden crib. It has four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be transformed into a toddler bed or a day bed, and then to an adult-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will blend into any nursery decor, and its non-toxic construction will ensure that your child's environment is safe and healthy.
If they have signs that they are worn out or not being properly assembled or maintained, it is time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts which can trap the baby's head or arms and legs, chipped paints that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and other construction elements that are unsafe, such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. Also, decorative items such as bumpers, wedges and other ornamental pieces are not recommended, as they can pose health risks to babies.
Romina is an eco-friendly beautiful, safe and beautiful family-owned business that manufactures wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Amish craftsmen in Ohio produce their furniture from sustainable solid wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are stronger than glues or nails, and they employ heated wood. Their products are available in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They can also be purchased online. They offer a wide selection of paint and stain choices and hardware options.
Cost
It is essential to take into consideration your budget when purchasing a crib. The right crib will enhance the value of your nursery, and you will save money over time. In addition to being sturdy the best crib will be simple to put together and look stunning in the nursery. It is also essential to choose a crib that adheres to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with CPSC will allow you to get recall notices much sooner than otherwise.
Style and cost are just two of the many elements that determine the ideal crib for your child. Certain of these aspects such as the use of slats versus flat panels, are purely personal preferences, while others, such as the size of the crib or mattress' height, are more practical. There are a variety of cribs. Some are compact and can be tucked away in small spaces while others can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the most popular cribs on the market are designed to be more flexible than others and allow parents to get a lot of use out of the crib and develop with their children. For instance, the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet mini crib, a midi toddler bed, and even a full-size toddler daybed, making it ideal for growing families. Its small width and wheels allow it 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 excellent options. Both have sleek minimalist designs that will fit in with any nursery decor. They are made of sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little mouths and hands, which reduces the risk of SIDS. These cribs also come with four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted, so you can move the mattress up as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs can be erected in a matter of hours or less. They also come with a detailed instruction manual and all the required tools, meaning you don't have to buy the cribs separately. All cribs that we reviewed were in compliance with CPSC safety standards. However, some cribs had more components than others. Be sure to read the instructions before attempting assembly.