9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Good Cribs
Shopping For good cribs (have a peek here)
When looking for a crib you will want to make sure that it meets the strict safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to find one that is suitable for your budget and space.
Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib constructed from wood that is sustainable, a convertible crib which can be transformed with the baby into a daybed and toddler bed as well as a Delta Children crib that comes in a range of attractive colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a crib that is worth buying is its security. If you are looking for your first crib or replacing an older one, make sure the mattress and other bedding items meet the standards set by the government. Also, avoid using bumper pads and sleep positioners as well as other objects that can lift your infant or create a slanted sleeping surface. These items are known cots to tots increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked to suffocation-related injuries in 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 signify that the crib has been evaluated by a third-party and has passed the strictest safety requirements. Additionally, the mattress should be firm, as soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats need to be at least two and three-quarter inches apart in order to avoid the baby's head getting stuck between them. Also, make sure that the posts at the corners are not more than 1/16 inch high to prevent a baby's clothes from getting caught on them.
If you're thinking of buying a used crib make sure it's not involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also important to purchase a crib that has paint that is lead-free. This is due to the fact that infants who are teething may chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
If you are considering buying a convertible crib, make sure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits permit the crib to convert into a toddler or full-size mattress. 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 in the course of time. It should have a sturdy enough bottom drawer to hold clothes and toys. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to prevent your child from taking out the contents. It should also be able to support the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, so finding one that is in line with your decor style can be a fun task. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, ranging including modern, sleek models to classic designs. Some cribs come with slats that are different heights, and include toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to go on. Mattress height and crib size are also important factors to take into consideration.
Cribs are typically made of wood, though they are not all created equal. Some cribs are made from hardwood that has a higher density and comes from deciduous trees which lose their leaves during winter. Others are made from softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreens. Both have advantages but if your goal is to buy a crib that can last for many children hardwood is the best option.
A quality crib is built to ensure safety and comfort. It shouldn't contain sharp corners or other dangers that could entrap the child's fingers or legs. It should have a wide enough opening to change the sheets easily. It is also important that the crib is properly anchored to its room and not placed near windows or other possible dangers.
If you're looking to buy a crib, it's important to be aware of 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 aspects that include the dimensions of your crib as well as the mattress you choose to use.
The majority of cribs we examined have met or exceeded these standards however some are more strict than others. The Evolur Newbury crib, for example, is GreenGuard Gold-certified and is made from sustainable hardwood that is sourced from sustainable sources and has non-toxic finishes. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM specifications for building quality as well as spindle load support and heavy and chemical content.
It's more expensive than a few of the other cribs we examined but it's an excellent choice if you want an elegant modern crib that will last many siblings. It's also a bit more substantial than some of the cribs we looked at and will make more space in your room than some of the smaller cribs we looked at. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it may not be the ideal fit for a small nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed from materials that are durable and safe, which means they won't splinter or damage over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can sleep in peace. Whether you choose innerspring or foam mattress, it must meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It must be firm too as mattresses that are soft can increase SIDS risk. Find a mattress that has CertiPUR US certification. This means the foam is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and TCEP fire retardants. It should not contain metal coils, or any other harmful chemicals. Another alternative is natural latex which is known as 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 that is made to last. It comes with four mattress levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted to a toddler bed or a day bed, and then to a full-sized Mini Cot Bed as your child grows. Its classic design blends in with any nursery decor, and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced when they are showing signs of wear or have not been properly assembled or maintained. These include decorative cutouts that can trap a baby's head, arms or legs or legs; chipped paint that may expose them to harmful substances; splinters; and unsafe construction details, such as inadequately spaced slats and drop sides. Also, wedges, bumpers and other ornamental items should be avoided because they also pose dangers to a baby's health.
Romina is a family-owned company that makes safe, beautiful, and eco-friendly wooden bassinets cribs, cradles and cribs. The furniture is made in Ohio by Amish craftsmen made of solid wood that's sustainable harvested. They use mortise and Tenon joints, which are more durable than nails or glues, and they use kiln-dried wood. The products are available in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. You can also buy these products on the internet. They offer a wide selection of paint and stain choices, as well as different hardware options.
Cost
It is crucial to take into consideration your budget when purchasing a crib. However, the right crib can add value cots to tots your nursery and help you save money in the long run. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to set up, and looks great in the nursery. It is important to buy a crib that adheres with Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. It is recommended that you register your crib with the CPSC, which will allow you to receive recall notifications earlier than you would normally.
Many factors influence the crib that is best crib for your child, such as the style and cost. A few of these factors are personal preference, such as whether you want to use slats or flat panels, 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 be tucked away in smaller spaces, while others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the most popular cribs on the market are designed to be more flexible than others which allows parents to get plenty of use out of them and grow with their children. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be turned into an midi crib or bassinet. It can also be converted into a midi toddler's bed, or a full-size daybed. Its narrow width allows it to be moved easily and its circular shape creates a womb like environment for babies.
Other good cribs include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both have sleek minimalist designs that will fit in with any decor for the nursery. They are made of sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little hands and mouths, reducing the chance of SIDS. The cribs have four levels of mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child 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 all the essential tools, so you don't need to purchase them separately. The cribs we examined were compliant with the CPSC's safety guidelines, but some had more parts than others, so make certain to read the instructions carefully before attempting the assembly.