10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Good Cribs
Shopping For Good Cribs
When looking for a crib you'll want to ensure that it meets the high safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want a crib that fits in your space and your budget.
Our top picks include a contemporary minimalist crib made from sustainable wood A convertible crib that grows as a toddler into a bed and daybed as well as a multi-functional crib from Delta Children that comes in various appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is among the most important characteristics of a crib that is safe. If you are purchasing the crib for the first time or replacing one that is old make sure that the mattress and bedding meet government safety standards. Avoid using bumper pads, positioners, and other items which raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects have been linked to SIDS and the risk of suffocation among infants.
To ensure your baby's safety, look for cribs that have the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals prove that the crib was tested by a third party and meets the highest standards of safety. Additionally, the mattress should be firm, as soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be no more than two and three-quarter inches apart in order to prevent the baby's head from getting caught between them. Check that the corner posts do not exceed 1/16 inches in height to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on the posts.
If you are considering buying a used crib, check that it has not been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also buy cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is because infants who are teething can chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
Lastly, if purchasing a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits permit you to convert the crib into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They're not always easy to assemble and may need professional installation.
In addition to these attributes, a great crib should also have sturdy sides and slats. These are strong enough to prevent the crib from collapsing or shifting over time. It should have a sturdy enough bottom that can hold toys and clothes. The drawer should also be able close and lock in a secure way so that your baby cannot remove the contents. Additionally, it should be able to withstand the weight of a bulky quilt or blanket without falling.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so choosing one that fits your decor style can be a jolly task. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, including modern, sleek models to classic-looking designs. Some cribs come with slats that are different heights, and include toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to go onto the next stage. Mattress height and crib size are also important features to consider.
Cribs are generally made from wood, however not all are made equally. Some are made of hardwood, which is heavier and is sourced from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter. Other cribs are made of softwood, which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both have advantages however if your objective is to purchase a crib that can last for several children hardwood is the ideal option.
A crib that is well-designed for safety and comfort. It shouldn't have sharp corners or other potential hazards which could cause injury to a child's fingers or leg. It should also have a large enough opening to allow for easy sheet changes. It is also crucial that the crib is properly anchored to its room and not positioned near 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 cover a range of aspects including the size of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
The majority of cribs we looked at have met or exceeded these standards However, some cribs are more stringent than others. 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 quality of construction and spindle load support and heavy and chemical content.
It's more expensive than many of the other cribs we examined, but it's a great choice if you want a stylish modern crib that will last through many siblings. It's also a bit more substantial than the other cribs we reviewed, and it will make more space in your room than the smaller cribs we reviewed. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it might not be the ideal fit for a minimal nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made with durable and safe materials that will not cause harm or break down over time. It should be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. Whether you opt for foam or innersprings, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It should also be firm as mattresses that are soft can increase SIDS risk. Look for a foam mattress that has the CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is produced free of PBDEs, ozone depleters, and TCEP flame retardants. It shouldn't contain metal coils or any other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is a different option. It is a tough, long-lasting and chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent example of a crib made of wood that is made to last. It comes with four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed and a full-sized bed, to accommodate your child's needs as they grow. Its classic design blends 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 show signs of wear or aren't properly maintained or assembled. This includes decorative cutouts that could trap the baby's head, arms or legs; chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and other construction details that could be dangerous, such as inadequately spaced slats and drop sides. Also, decorative objects such as wedges, bumpers and other ornamental pieces should be avoided as they could pose health hazards to infants.
Romina is a family-owned firm that produces beautiful, safe and eco-friendly wooden bassinets, cradles, and cribs. Their furniture is handcrafted in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that is sustainably harvested. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are more durable than glues or nails, and they utilize heated wood. Their products are available in many specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy these products online. They offer a wide selection of paint and stain options as well as a variety of hardware options.
Cost
Cribs are expensive It is therefore important to consider your budget before buying one. But, the right crib can add value to your nursery and save you money over the long haul. In addition to being sturdy the best crib is easy to assemble and look great in the nursery. It is also essential to choose cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with CPSC will allow you to get recall notices earlier than otherwise.
Style and cost are just two of the many elements that influence the selection of the right crib for your child. A few of these factors are personal preference, such as whether to use flat panels or slats, while others are more practical and important for crib sizes and the mattress's height. There are a variety of cribs, from compact cribs that can be tucked away in smaller spaces to larger ones that transform into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the most recommended cribs popular cribs available are designed to be more flexible than others and allow parents to get plenty of use out of them and grow with their children. For instance, the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, midi crib, a midi toddler Mini Cot Bed, and even a full-size toddler or daybed, making it perfect for growing families. Its narrow width makes it easy to move and its circular shape creates a womb-like space for babies.
Other good cribs include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both cribs have sleek, minimalistic designs that compliment any decor in the nursery. These cribs are made of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for children's mouths and hands. This lowers 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 are simple to put together, taking around an hour or less from start to the end. They also come with a thorough instruction manual and the essential tools, so you don't have to purchase the cribs separately. The cribs we reviewed all met the CPSC's safety requirements However, some recommended cribs included more components than others, so make sure to read the instructions carefully before you attempt assembly.