13 Things About Good Cribs You May Not Have Known
Shopping For Good Cribs
When you are looking for a crib, you will want to ensure that it meets the strict safety standards established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that fits in your space and budget.
Our top picks include modern, minimal crib made with sustainable wood A convertible crib that can grow with baby into a toddler daybed and bed as well as a multi-functional crib from Delta Children that comes in many appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a quality crib is its safety. If you are looking for your first crib or replacing an older one, make sure the mattress and bedding meets government safety standards. Avoid using bumper pads or positioners as well as other objects that can raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects 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 child pick a crib that has the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals signify that the crib has been tested by a third party and is in compliance with the highest safety requirements. Mattresses with soft surfaces can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be spaced between 2 and 3/8 inches apart to avoid the head of a baby from getting stuck between them. Make sure the corner posts do not exceed 1/16 inches in height to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on them.
In addition, if you're contemplating purchasing a used crib, ensure that it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also buy cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is because babies who are teething may chew on the rails and lead poisoning can result.
Lastly, if you decide to purchase a convertible crib, check that the conversion kits comply with CPSC standards. These kits allow you to convert the crib into a full-size toddler bed or a bed. However, they aren't always easy to assemble and may require a professional installation.
In addition to these features, a quality crib should also have sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from crashing or shifting in the course of time. It must also have a bottom for the drawer that is sturdy enough to support clothing and toys. Moreover, the drawer should close and lock securely to prevent your child from taking out the contents. In addition, it must be able to support the weight of a heavy blanket or quilt without sliding.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so choosing one that fits your decor style can be a rewarding task. There are a myriad of cribs, ranging from sleek modern designs to classic designs. The slats are often of various heights, and some come with toddler conversion kits for when your baby is ready to move up. The crib's size and mattress height are also important features to consider.
Read More In this article are usually made of wood, but not all cribs are the same. Some cribs are made of hardwood, which has a higher density and comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves during the winter. Others are made from softwood which is lighter, and comes from evergreens. Both options have their advantages, but if your goal is to purchase a crib that will last for many children, hardwood is the best choice.
A crib that is well-designed to ensure safety and comfort. It shouldn't have sharp corners or other potential hazards which could entrap the child's fingers or legs. It should have a large enough opening to change the sheets easily. It is also essential that the crib be properly anchored to its room and not placed near windows or other potential dangers.
If you're in the market for a crib, you need 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 variety of aspects that include the size of your crib and the type mattress you use.
Some cribs are more rigorous than others, but most of them are in line with or surpass the standards. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is certified by GREENGUARD Gold and is made of sustainable hardwood that is sourced from sustainable sources and has 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 more expensive than a few cribs we reviewed however it's a great option if you're looking for a modern and stylish crib that will last through several siblings. It's also more sturdy than other cribs that we have reviewed. It will also take up more space in your room as compared to the smaller ones we have looked at. It's more exposed to hardware compared to other cribs so it may not be suitable for an uncluttered nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed using materials that are strong and safe, so they won't split or break over time. It should be easy to clean so that your child can sleep comfortably. No matter if you choose innerspring or foam, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It should be firm as well since soft mattresses could increase SIDS risk. Find a mattress that has CertiPUR US certification. This means the mattress is free of ozone-depleting chemicals, PBDEs and TCEP fire retardants. It should also have no metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Another alternative is natural latex which is an extremely durable and long-lasting material which is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent example of a wood crib that is built to last. It comes with four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, day bed, and full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they grow. Its classic design can fit into any nursery decor, and its non-toxic construction will ensure your baby's environment is healthy and safe.
Old cribs need to be replaced if they show signs of wear or aren't correctly assembled or maintained. These include decorative cutouts that could trap a baby's head, arms, or legs; chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and construction elements that are unsafe such as poorly spaced slats and drop sides. In addition, wedges, bumpers, and other decorative items should be avoided because they could pose a risk for a baby's health.
Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned business that manufactures wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Their furniture is handcrafted in Ohio by Amish craftsmen made of solid wood that's sustainably harvested. They make use of mortise-and-tenon joints which are more durable than glues and nails, and they utilize the kiln-dried wood. Their products are available in specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy these products online. They have a variety of paint and stain options, in addition to an array of hardware.
Cost
Cribs can be expensive and it is crucial to consider your budget before buying one. However, the best crib can add significant value to your nursery and help you save money in the long run. A good crib is durable and easy to set up and looks beautiful in the nursery. It is also essential to select cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. Registering your crib with CPSC will allow you to get recall notifications much earlier than otherwise.
Many factors go into deciding the best crib for your child, such as the style and cost. Some of these factors, like the use of slats versus flat panels, are just personal preferences, while other, such as the size of the crib and the mattress's height are more practical. There are various types of cribs, ranging from compact options that fit into smaller spaces to larger ones that convert into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs are made to be more flexible than other cribs. This allows parents to make use of them for a longer period of time and also to grow with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be turned into a bassinet or midi-crib. It can also be converted into an midi toddler's crib or a daybed that is full-sized. Its small width and wheels make it simple to move around in, while its unique circular shape creates the illusion of a womb for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are also excellent alternatives. Both feature sleek minimalist designs that are perfect for any nursery decor. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' hands and mouths, reducing the chance of SIDS. These cribs also come with four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted, so you can move the mattress higher as your baby grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be erected within an hour or less. They also come with a thorough instruction manual and all the essential tools, so you don't have to buy the cribs separately. The cribs we tested were compliant with the CPSC's safety guidelines however some had more components than others, so make certain to read the instructions carefully before attempting assembly.