Shopping For Good Cribs
When shopping for a crib you'll want to ensure that it meets the standards of safety that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to find one that fits your space and budget.
Our top picks include a contemporary, minimal crib made with sustainable wood and a convertible crib that can grow with baby into a toddler bed and daybed; and a versatile option from Delta Children that comes in various appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a good crib is its safety. When you are buying your first crib or replacing an older one, make sure the mattress and other bedding meet the safety standards of the government. Also, stay clear of bumper pads, sleep positioners and other items that lift your infant or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These items are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked to suffocation-related 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 show that the crib has been evaluated by a third-party and is in compliance with the highest safety requirements. Additionally, the mattress should be firm as mattresses that are soft increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be no more than two and three quarter inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Check that the posts on the corners do not exceed 1/16 inches in height to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on them.
If you're thinking of buying a used crib make sure that it hasn't been involved in any accidents or recalls. You should also buy a crib with lead-free paint. This is because teething infants can chew on the rails, which can cause lead poisoning.
Lastly, if purchasing a convertible crib make sure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits permit the crib to be converted into a toddler or full-size mattress. However, they're not always simple to construct and may require a professional installation.
In addition to these features, a good crib should have solid sides and slats. These are strong enough to prevent the crib from falling over or shifting in the course of time. It should also have a bottom for the drawer that is strong enough to support clothing and toys. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to prevent your child from ripping out the contents. It should also be able take the weight of large quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
The crib is the center of any nursery, so choosing one that matches your decorating style can be a fun task. There are many cribs, ranging from sleek contemporary designs to classic styles. Some cribs feature slats of different heights and come with toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to go to the next level. Other things to consider are the mattress's height, as well as the crib size.
Cribs are typically made of wood, though not all are made equal. Some are made from hardwood, which is denser and is derived from deciduous trees which lose their leaves in winter, while others are made from softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have their benefits, but if you're looking for a crib that can last for a long time, it's best to choose a hardwood crib.
A crib that is well-constructed is designed to ensure safety and comfort. It should have no sharp edges or other hazards that could trap little ones 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 securely anchored in its room, and not placed near any windows or other dangers that could be posed.
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 designed to prevent SIDS and cover a range of factors, including the size of your crib and the mattress you choose to use.
Certain cribs are more strict than others, but the majority of them are in line with or surpass the standards. For example, the Evolur Newbury crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made of sustainably-sourced wood using non-toxic paints. It also meets or surpasses the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for build quality, spindle load support, and chemical and heavy metal content.
It's a bit more expensive than other cribs that we examined, but if you're looking for a modern and stylish crib for your baby that can last for many generations it's a great option. It's also more substantial than some of the other cribs we reviewed, and it will take up more square footage in your bedroom than some of the smaller cribs we reviewed. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it may not be the best fit for a minimal nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed of sturdy and safe materials that won't damage or splinter over time. It should be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. No matter if you choose foam or innersprings mattresses, the mattress must meet CPSC safety standards. It must also be firm because soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. If you choose the foam mattress, search for one with CertiPUR-US certification. This means that the foam is made free of PBDEs, ozone depleters, and TCEP flame retardants. It should not contain any 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. top rated cots comes with four mattress levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted to a toddler bed or day bed, and then to an adult-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 safety and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced when they are showing signs of wear or are not properly assembled or maintained. They include cutouts with decorative designs that can entrap the 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. Also, decorative objects such as wedges, bumpers and other decorative pieces should be avoided, because they could pose health hazards for infants.
Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned business that produces wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Their furniture is handcrafted in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that's sustainable harvested. They use mortise-and-tenon joints that are more durable than glues or nails, and they employ the kiln-dried wood. Their products are available at many specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy them on the internet. They have a wide range of paint and stain choices and hardware options.
Cost
Cribs can be expensive, so it is important to consider your budget before buying one. The right crib can add value to your nursery, and you will save money over time. In addition to being sturdy the best crib is easy to put together and look stunning in the nursery. It is essential to purchase an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. It is recommended to register your crib with the CPSC and this will enable you to receive recall notices sooner than you normally.
Many factors go into deciding which crib is right for your child, including the style and cost. A few of these factors are personal preferences, such as whether to use flat panels or slats, while others are more practical and essential for crib sizes and mattress height. There are many different types of cribs. Some are small and can be tucked away in tiny spaces, while others can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs available are designed to be more adaptable than others which allows parents to get plenty of use from the crib and develop with their children. For example the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, a mid-sized crib, a toddler bed, and even a full-size toddler daybed, which makes it the ideal choice for families that are growing. Its slim width allows it to be easily moved, while its circular shape creates a womb-like environment for babies.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are also good options. Both feature sleek, minimalist designs that complement any decor for the nursery. They are made of sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little hands and mouths, reducing the risk of SIDS. The cribs come with four levels of adjustable mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
Modern cribs are easy to put together, taking around an hour or less from beginning to completion. The cribs come with a user's manual and the tools needed. It is not necessary to purchase them separately. All cribs we tested met the CPSC safety standards. However there were some cribs with more parts than others. Be sure to go through the instructions prior to attempting the assembly.