Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Good Cribs
Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're in the market for a crib, you'll need one that meets high safety standards, which are outlined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that fits in your space and your budget.
Our top picks include a contemporary minimalist crib made from sustainable wood and a convertible crib that grows with baby into a toddler bed and daybed as well as a multi-functional crib from Delta Children that comes in many appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important features of a crib that is worth buying is its safety. If you are looking for your first crib or replacing an older crib, make sure the mattress and other bedding meet the safety standards of the government. Also, stay clear of bumper pads and sleep positioners as well as other products that raise your child up or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These items are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked with suffocation injuries in infants.
If you want to ensure the safety of your baby pick a crib that has 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 has met the highest standards of safety. Mattresses with soft surfaces can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be no more than two and three-quarter inches apart in order to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Make sure that the posts on the corners do not exceed 1/16 inches in height to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on them.
Additionally, if you are considering buying a used crib, ensure that it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also essential to buy a crib that uses lead-free paint. This is because infants who are teething can chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
In the end, if you choose to purchase a convertible crib, make sure whether the conversion kits are compliant 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 easy to assemble and may require professional installation.
A good crib must have slats and sides that are strong enough to stop the crib from slipping or collapsing over time. It must also have a bottom for the drawer that is strong enough to support clothing and toys. The drawer must also be able to close and lock securely so that your child cannot remove the contents. Additionally it should be able to withstand the weight of a large quilt or blanket without sagging.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so choosing one that matches your decorating style can be a rewarding task. There are a variety of cribs, ranging from modern and sleek designs to classic designs. The slats are usually different in height, and some come with toddler conversion kits to help you when your baby is ready to go up. Other aspects to consider include the mattress's height and crib size.
Cribs are usually made from wood, though they are not all created to be the same. Some cribs are constructed of hardwood that has a higher density and is derived from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in the winter. Some cribs are made of 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 crib for newborn option.
A good crib is designed to be safe and comfortable. It should not have sharp corners or any other dangers that could entrap a child's fingers or leg. It should have a large enough opening to change the sheets easily. It is also crucial that the crib is properly fixed to its space and not positioned near windows or other potential dangers.
When you are shopping for a new crib, it is crucial to be aware of the safety standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a variety of aspects that include the size of your crib and the mattress you choose to use.
The majority of cribs we examined are in compliance with these standards or even exceed them however some are more strict than others. The Evolur Newbury crib is, for instance, GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of sustainable-sourced hardwood and non-toxic finishes. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA requirements, CFR and ASTM for spindle support, build quality, chemical and heavy metal content as well as ASTM specifications.
It's a bit more expensive than other cribs that we looked at however if you're looking for a chic modern crib for your baby that can last for a long time it's an excellent option. It's also a little larger than the cribs we examined and will take up more square footage in your space than the smaller cribs we reviewed. It's got more exposed hardware than other cribs, therefore it might not be suitable for an open-plan nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made of sturdy and safe materials that won't damage or break over time. It should also be easy to clean, so that your child can rest comfortably. No matter if you choose foam or innerspring the mattress must be in compliance with CPSC safety standards. It should also be firm as mattresses that are soft can increase SIDS risk. If you decide to purchase a mattress made of foam, look for one 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 other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is another option. It is a tough and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden cots 4 tots in 1 crib is a great crib example of a wood crib that is built to last. It comes with four mattress levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted into a toddler bed, day bed or a full-sized bed to meet the needs of your child as they develop. Its classic design blends into any nursery decor, and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced when they show signs of wear or aren't properly assembled or maintained. These include 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. Additionally, bumpers, wedges, and other decorative items are not recommended as they could pose a risk to a baby's health.
Romina is an eco-friendly beautiful, safe and beautiful family-owned company that makes wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Amish craftsmen from Ohio make their furniture using sustainably harvested solid wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are more durable than glues and nails, and they utilize heated wood. Their products are available at numerous specialty stores across the US and Canada. They can also be purchased online. They offer a variety of paint and stain choices, as well as different hardware options.
Cost
Cribs can be expensive It is therefore important to think about your budget prior to buying one. The best crib will enhance the value of your nursery and can save money over time. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to put together and looks beautiful in the nursery. It is important to buy an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Registering your crib with CPSC will allow you to receive recall notifications much earlier than if you did not register your crib.
Style and cost are just two of the many elements that go into choosing the right crib for your child. Some of these are personal preferences, 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. Some are compact and can be tucked away in small spaces while others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs are designed to be more versatile than others. This lets parents use cribs for a longer period of time and also to grow with their child. For example the Stokke Sleepi infant cot bed can transform into a bassinet mini crib, a midi toddler bed, and even a full-size toddler daybed, which makes it the ideal choice for families with growing children. Its small width and wheels make it easy to move around in, while its unique circular shape creates an womb-like space for babies.
Other good cribs include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both have sleek, minimalist designs that complement any nursery decor. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' mouths and hands, which reduces the risk of SIDS. These cribs also come with four adjustable mattress support levels which allows you to move the mattress up as your baby grows.
Modern cribs are easy to put together, and take about an hour or less from start to the end. They also come with a detailed instruction manual and the necessary tools, so you don't have to purchase them separately. The cribs we examined met the CPSC's safety requirements however some included more components than others, so be certain to read the instructions carefully before attempting the assembly.