Shopping For Good Cribs
When shopping for a crib you should ensure that it meets the standards of safety that are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want a crib that is compatible with your space and your budget.
Our top picks include a contemporary, minimal crib made with sustainable wood A convertible crib that transforms with the baby, becoming a toddler daybed and bed as well as a multi-functional crib from Delta Children that comes in various appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important aspects of a crib that is safe. If you are buying a new crib or replacing one that is older, ensure the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Also, stay clear of bumper pads and sleep positioners as well as other items that lift your infant up or create a slanted sleeping surface. These items have been associated with SIDS and suffocation injuries in infants.
If you want to ensure the safety of your baby select a crib that bears the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals indicate that the crib has been tested by a third party and has met the highest standards of safety. In addition the mattress must be firm, as mattresses with soft surfaces increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be spaced at least 2 and 3/8 inches apart, to prevent the head of a baby from getting stuck between them. Also, make sure that the corner posts aren't more than 1/16 inch high to keep baby's clothes from catching on them.
If you are thinking of purchasing a used crib, make sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also important to purchase a crib that is made of lead-free paint. This is due to the fact that infants who are teething may chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
In the end, if you opt to buy a convertible crib, check that the conversion kits comply with CPSC standards. These kits allow you to transform 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 have solid sides and slats that are strong enough to stop the crib from crashing or shifting with time. It should have a thick enough bottom drawer to hold clothing and toys. The drawer should also be able close and lock in a secure way so that your child is unable to remove the contents. It should also be able to take the weight of large quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
The crib is the center of any nursery, so choosing one that matches your decorating style can be a rewarding task. There are many different cribs to choose from, including modern, sleek models to classic designs. Some cribs feature slats of different heights, and include toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to go onto the next stage. The crib's size and mattress height are other important aspects to take into consideration.
Cribs are typically made of wood, but not all are made to be the same. small cot beds are made of hardwood, which is denser and is derived from deciduous trees which lose their leaves in the winter, while others are made of softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have advantages however if your objective is to purchase an affordable crib that will last for many children hardwood is the ideal option.
A quality crib is built to ensure safety and comfort. It should not have sharp corners or any other hazards that could trap a child's fingers or leg. It should also have a large enough opening to allow for easy sheet swaps. It is also important that the crib is properly secured to its place and not placed close to windows or other potential dangers.
If you're looking to buy cribs, it's crucial to be aware of the safety standards that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. These standards are focused on the prevention of SIDS and cover a variety of factors including the size of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
Some cribs are more rigorous than others, but most of them meet or surpass the standards. 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 meets or surpasses the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for quality of construction as well as spindle load support and chemical and heavy metal content.
It's more expensive than some of the other cribs we looked at, but it's a great option if you're looking for a stylish modern crib that will last several siblings. It's also a little more substantial than some of the other cribs we reviewed, and it will have more space in your room than some of the smaller cribs we examined. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it may not be the best fit for a smaller nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made with durable and safe materials that won't cause damage or break over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can sleep in peace. If you choose to use innerspring or foam, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It must also be firm because soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. If you opt for the foam mattress, search for one with CertiPUR-US certification. This means the foam is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and fire retardants. It shouldn't contain metal coils, or any other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is an alternative. It is a tough, long-lasting and chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is a great example of a high-quality crib made of wood. It features four mattress-level heights 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 into any nursery decor and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced if they are showing signs of wear or aren't properly assembled or maintained. This includes decorative cutouts that can keep the baby's head from being trapped, arms and legs, chipped paints that may expose them to harmful substances, splinters, and other construction elements that are unsafe, such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. Additionally, items that are decorative such as bumpers, wedges and other pieces of decor should be avoided as they could pose health hazards for infants.
Romina is an eco-friendly family-owned, safe and beautiful company that makes wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Their furniture is handmade in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that is sustainably harvested. They use mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than nails or glues, and they use kiln-dried wood. Their products are available in many specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also purchase these products online. They offer a variety of paint and stain choices as well as a variety of hardware options.
small cot beds are expensive and it is crucial to think about your budget prior to purchasing one. The best crib will add value to your nursery and can save money over time. In addition to being sturdy the best crib is easy to put together and look stunning in the nursery. It is important to buy a crib that is compliant with Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Registering your crib with the CPSC will enable you to get recall notices earlier than you would otherwise.
Cost and style are only two of the many elements that go into choosing the best crib for your child. Some of these factors such as the use of slats over flat panels, are solely personal preferences, while others like the size of the crib or mattress' height are more practical. There are many different types of cribs. Some are small and can fit in smaller spaces and others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs available are designed to be more flexible than others which allows parents to get plenty of use from them and grow with their children. For example the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, a midi crib, a midi toddler bed, or even a full-size toddler or daybed, making it ideal for families with growing children. Its narrow width allows it to be easily moved and its circular shape creates a womb-like environment for infants.
Other cribs that are worth considering include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both feature sleek minimalist designs that will fit in with any decor for the nursery. The cribs are constructed of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for babies with small hands and mouths. This reduces the risk of SIDS. They also have four adjustable levels of mattress support that allow you to raise the mattress up as your baby grows.
Most modern cribs can be erected in an hour or less. The cribs come with a manual for assembly, as well as the necessary tools. You don't need to purchase the cribs separately. The cribs we examined met the CPSC's safety requirements however some had more parts than others, so make certain to read the instructions carefully before attempting assembly.