Nine Things That Your Parent Teach You About Good Cribs
Shopping For Good Cribs
When shopping 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 a crib that fits into your space and your budget.
Our top picks include a contemporary minimalist crib made from sustainable wood; a convertible crib that grows as a toddler into a daybed and bed; and a versatile option from Delta Children that comes in many appealing colors.
Safety
Safety is one of the most important characteristics of a quality crib. If you're buying the crib for the first time or replacing one that's older make sure the mattress and bedding are in compliance with government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads and positioners, as well as other objects that elevate your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects have been linked to SIDS and suffocation injuries in infants.
To ensure your baby's safety ensure your baby's safety, choose cribs that have 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 standards. Additionally the mattress should be firm, since mattresses that are soft increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be no more than two and three quarter inches apart in order to prevent the infant's head 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.
In addition, if you're thinking of purchasing a used crib, make sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also consider buying cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is because infants who are teething may chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
If you are considering buying a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits permit the crib to be converted into a toddler or full-size mattress. They're not always easy to assemble and may require professional installation.
In addition to these features, a quality crib should have solid sides and slats that are strong enough to keep the crib from collapsing or shifting in the course of time. It should also have a bottom for the drawer that is strong enough to hold clothes and toys. The drawer must also be able to close and lock securely so that your child cannot take the contents. In addition, it should be able to withstand the weight of a bulky quilt or blanket without falling.
Design
Finding a crib that is in line with your style of decorating can be fun. There are many different cribs available, including modern, sleek models to classic-looking models. Some cribs have slats of different heights, and include toddler conversion kits once your child is ready to go onto the next stage. The mattress's height and the crib's size are other important aspects to consider.
Cribs are generally made from wood, however they are not all created equally. Some are made from hardwood, which is denser and is sourced from deciduous trees which lose their leaves in the winter. Other cribs are made from softwood, which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both have their benefits however, if you're looking for a crib that can last for a long time, it's best to choose a hardwood crib.
A quality crib is built to provide safety and comfort. It should not have sharp edges or other dangers that could entrap the fingers of a child or legs. It should have a wide enough opening to allow changing of sheets easily. It is also important that the crib is properly fixed to its space and not positioned 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. 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.
The majority of cribs we looked at are in compliance with these standards or even exceed them However, some cribs are more stringent than others. For instance, the Evolur Newbury crib is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made from sustainably sourced wood and non-toxic paints. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for build quality and spindle load support and heavy metal and chemical content.
It's more expensive than some of the other cribs we looked at however it's a great option for those looking for an elegant modern crib that can last multiple siblings. It's also a bit more substantial than the other cribs we reviewed, and it will take up more square footage 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 materials that are durable and safe, which means they won't break or splinter over time. It should be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. If you opt for innerspring or foam mattress, it must meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should be firm as well, as soft mattresses can increase SIDS risk. If you decide to purchase a foam mattress, look for one with CertiPUR-US certification. This means that the foam is manufactured free of PBDEs, ozone depleters and TCEP flame retardants. It must also be free of metal coils or any other hazardous chemicals. Another option is natural latex, which is an extremely durable and long-lasting material that's free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is an excellent example of a premium wooden crib. It features four mattress-level heights and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be made into an infant bed or a day bed, and then to it can be converted to a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will blend into any decor in the nursery 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 maintained or assembled. They include cutouts with decorative designs that can trap a baby's head, arms or legs and chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and construction elements that are unsafe, such as inadequately spaced slats and drop sides. Also, decorative objects such as wedges, bumpers and other pieces of decor are not recommended, as they can pose health risks to infants.
Romina is a family-owned company that manufactures beautiful, safe and eco-friendly wooden bassinets, cradles, and cribs. The furniture is made in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that is sustainably harvested. They use mortise-and-tenon joints that are more durable than glues and nails, and they use kiln dried wood. Their products are available at many specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They are also available online. They have a wide range of paint and stain options, as well as different hardware options.
Cost
Cribs can be expensive It is therefore important to think about your budget prior to purchasing one. A crib that is well-designed can add value to your nursery and will save money over time. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to set up, and looks great in the nursery. It is also essential to choose cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. It is recommended that you register your crib with the CPSC, which will allow you to receive recall notices sooner than you would otherwise.
Many factors go into deciding which crib is right for Baby Beds your child, including the style and cost. Certain of these aspects such as the use of slats versus flat panels, are just personal preferences, while other like the crib size and the mattress's height are more practical. There are a variety of cribs, ranging from compact cribs (via Liantrade) that can be tucked away in smaller spaces to larger ones that can convert into toddler mini cot beds and full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs available are designed to be more adaptable than others, allowing parents to get plenty of use out of the crib and develop with their children. For instance, the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, a mid-sized crib, a toddler cheap cot bed, and even a full-size toddler or daybed, making it perfect for families that are growing. Its small width and wheels make it simple to move around in, while its unique circular shape allows for an womb-like space for babies.
Other good cribs include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both cribs feature modern, minimalist designs that compliment any nursery decor. These cribs are made of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for babies with small mouths and hands. This reduces the risk 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.
Most modern cribs are simple to put together, and take about an hour or less from start to finish. They also come with an extensive instruction manual and all the essential tools, so you don't need to purchase the cribs separately. The cribs we examined conformed to the safety standards of the CPSC However, some cribs had more components than others, so be certain to read the instructions carefully before you attempt assembly.