Shopping For Good Cribs
When looking for a crib you'll want to ensure that it complies with the standards of safety that are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to find one that is suitable for your space and budget.
Our top picks include a contemporary minimalist crib made from sustainable wood and a convertible crib that can grow with baby into a toddler daybed and bed; and a versatile option from Delta Children that comes in various appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important aspects of a crib that is worth buying is its security. If you're buying a new crib or replacing one that is old make sure that the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads or positioners as well as other objects that raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects have been associated with SIDS and the risk of suffocation among infants.
To ensure the safety of your baby, look for cribs that bear the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals show that the crib has been inspected by a third-party and is in compliance with the highest safety requirements. In addition the mattress should be firm as mattresses with soft surfaces increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats need to be no more than two and three quarter inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting caught between them. Check that the corner posts do not exceed 1/16 inch in height to avoid a baby's clothing catching on them.
In addition, if you're considering buying a used crib make sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also recommended to purchase a crib with lead-free paint. This is because infants who are teething may chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
Also, if you purchase a convertible crib, make sure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits permit you to transform the crib into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may require professional installation.
A good crib should also be built with sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to prevent the crib from slipping or collapsing with time. It should have a sturdy enough drawer bottom to support clothes and toys. The drawer should also be able close and lock securely so that your child cannot take the contents. It should also be able support the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sliding.
Design
Finding a crib that fits your style of decor can be a lot of fun. There are a variety of cribs that range 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 move to the next level. Other aspects to consider include the mattress's height and crib size.
Cribs are usually made of wood, but not all cribs are created equal. Some are made of hardwood, which is more dense and is derived from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in the winter. Other cribs are made of softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have their benefits, but if you're looking for a crib that will last for many years it is recommended to choose a hardwood crib.
A quality crib is built for comfort and safety. It shouldn't contain sharp corners or other potential hazards which could cause injury to the child's 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 securely fixed to its place and not close to windows or other potential dangers.
When you are in the market for a new crib it is important to be aware of safety standards recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are geared towards the prevention of SIDS and cover a variety of factors including the size of the crib as well as the kind of mattress you select.
Some cribs are more rigorous than others, but most of them are in line with or exceed 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 exceeds 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 some of the other cribs we examined but it's an excellent choice if you want a stylish modern crib that will last through several siblings. It's also more sturdy than the other cribs we have reviewed. It also takes up more space in your room compared to some of the smaller ones we have considered. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, meaning it may not be the best fit for a smaller 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 baby can sleep comfortably. If cots to tots opt for foam or innerspring, it should meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It must also be firm, because soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. Choose a mattress that has the CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and fire retardants. It shouldn't contain metal coils or any other harmful chemicals. Another option is natural latex, which is a durable and long-lasting material that is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great example of a wood crib built to last. It comes with four mattress-level levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted to an infant bed or a day bed and then an adult-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will blend into any nursery decor, and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safety and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced if they show signs of wear or aren't properly maintained or assembled. This includes decorative cutouts which could hold the baby's head in place or arms and legs, chipped paints that can expose them to harmful substances, splinters and unsafe construction details such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. Also, wedges, bumpers and other items of decoration are not recommended as they could pose a risk to the health of a baby.
Romina is a family-owned firm that makes safe, beautiful and eco-friendly wooden bassinets cribs, cradles and cribs. Amish craftsmen in Ohio produce their furniture from sustainable solid wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints, which are stronger than glues or nails and they use kiln-dried wood. Their products are available at numerous specialty stores across the US and Canada. They can also be purchased online. They have a wide range of paint and stain options and hardware options.
Cost
Cribs are expensive and it is crucial to think about your budget prior to purchasing one. However, the best crib can add value to your nursery and help you save money in the long term. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to put together and looks beautiful in the nursery. It is also essential to choose a crib that adheres to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with the CPSC will allow you to receive recall notices much sooner than you would otherwise.
Style and cost are just two of the many aspects that influence the selection of the best crib for your child. A few of these factors are personal preferences, such as whether to use flat panels or slats while others are more practical and crucial like crib size and the mattress's height. There are many different types of cribs. Some are compact and can fit in smaller spaces, while others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the best cribs are made to be more flexible than other cribs. This allows parents to use them for a longer period of time and also to grow with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be transformed into a bassinet or midi crib. It can also be converted into a midi toddler's bed, or a daybed that is full-sized. Its slim width makes it easy to move, while its circular shape creates a womb like environment for infants.
Other good cribs include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both cribs have sleek, minimalistic designs that compliment any nursery decor. The cribs are constructed of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for small mouths and hands. This reduces the risk of SIDS. These cribs also come with four adjustable levels of mattress support, so you can move the mattress up as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs are simple to assemble, taking about an hour or less from beginning to completion. The cribs come with an instruction manual, as well as the necessary tools. It is not necessary to purchase them separately. All cribs we tested met the CPSC safety requirements. However, some cribs had more parts than others. Be sure to read the instructions prior to beginning the assembly.