9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Good Cribs
Shopping For Good Cribs
When shopping for a crib you'll 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 rated cots picks include a modern minimalist crib made of sustainable wood and a convertible crib that can be transformed with the baby into an adult daybed, and a Delta Children crib that comes in a range of appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important features of a good crib is its safety. If you are looking for your first crib or replacing an older crib ensure that the mattress and bedding meets government safety standards. Avoid bumper pads, positioners, and other products that raise your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects have been associated with SIDS and suffocation injuries among infants.
If you are looking to ensure the safety of your child 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 evaluated by a third party and is in compliance with the highest safety standards. Mattresses that are soft can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats need to be at least two and three quarter inches apart to avoid the baby's head getting stuck between them. Also, ensure that the posts at the corners are not more than 1/16 inches high to stop a baby's clothing from getting caught on them.
If you are thinking of purchasing a used crib, check that it has not been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also consider buying cribs that have paint that is lead-free. This is due to the fact that infants who are teething may chew on the rails, which can cause lead poisoning.
In the end, if you choose to purchase a convertible crib, check that the conversion kits meet CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to convert to a toddler or a full-size mattress. However, they are not always easy to assemble and may require a professional to install.
In addition to these features, a quality crib should have solid sides and slats, which are strong enough to keep the crib from falling over or shifting in the course of time. It should also have a bottom for the drawer that is thick enough to hold clothing and toys. The drawer should also be able close and lock tightly so that your child cannot pull out the contents. It should also be able to take the weight of large quilts or blankets without sliding.
Design
Finding a crib that is in line with your style of decorating can be fun. There are many different cribs available, with modern and sleek options to classic designs. Some cribs come with slats that are different heights, and include toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to move onto the next stage. Other aspects to consider include the mattress's height and crib size.
Cribs are typically made from wood, but not all cribs are created equal. Some are made from hardwood, which is more dense and comes from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in winter, while others are made of softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both options have advantages but if your goal is to purchase an affordable crib that will last for a number of children, hardwood is the best option.
A good crib is built to provide safety and comfort. It shouldn't contain sharp corners or other potential hazards which could trap children's fingers or their legs. It should also have a large enough opening to allow for easy sheet swaps. It's also important to make sure the crib is properly anchored in its room and not close to windows or other possible dangers.
If you're in the market for cribs, it's crucial to know the safety standards that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a variety of factors, including the size of the crib and the type mattress you use.
The majority of cribs we looked at meet or exceed these standards however some are more stringent than others. 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 chemical and heavy metal content, and ASTM specifications.
It's more expensive than other cribs that we looked at however if you're looking for a chic modern baby crib that will last for many generations, this is an excellent option. It's also a little more substantial than the cribs we examined, and it will make more space in your space than some of the smaller cribs we examined. It has more exposed hardware compared to other cribs therefore it might not be suitable for an open-plan nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made from materials that are durable and safe, meaning they won't split or break over time. It should be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. If you choose to use foam or innerspring, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It should also be firm since soft mattresses could increase SIDS risk. If you choose the foam mattress, search for one that has CertiPUR certification. This means the mattress is free of ozone-depleting chemicals, PBDEs and TCEP fire retardants. It should also not contain metal coils or other dangerous chemicals. Natural latex is a different option. It is a durable, long-lasting and chemical-free material.
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 be made into a toddler bed or a day bed, and then to an adult-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will fit into any decor for your nursery and its non-toxic construction will ensure your baby's environment is safe and healthy.
Old cribs need to be replaced if they are showing signs of wear or have not been correctly assembled or maintained. This includes decorative cutouts that can hold the baby's head in place or legs, chips in paints that may expose them to harmful substances, splinters, and unsafe construction details such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. Also, decorative objects such as wedges, bumpers and other pieces of decor should be avoided as they may pose health risks to babies.
Romina is an eco-friendly beautiful, safe and beautiful family-owned company that makes wooden cribs, cradles and bassinets. Amish craftsmen in Ohio make their furniture using sustainably harvested solid wood. They use mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than glues or nails and they make use of kiln dried wood. Their products are available in many specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. You can also buy the items on the internet. They have a wide range of paint and stain choices and hardware options.
Cost
Cribs are costly and it is crucial to think about your budget prior to buying one. However, the best crib can add significant value to your nursery and save you money in the long term. A quality crib is sturdy, easy to assemble and looks beautiful in the nursery. It is crucial to choose an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. It is recommended cribs to register your crib with the CPSC that will permit you to receive recall notifications earlier than you would otherwise.
Cost and style are only two of the many elements that influence the selection of the ideal crib for your child. Certain of these aspects, like the use of slats or flat panels, are solely personal preferences, while others such as the size of the crib and the mattress's height are more practical. There are also different types of cribs, from compact cribs that can be tucked away in smaller spaces to larger ones that convert into toddler beds and full-size beds.
Some of the best cribs are made to be more flexible than other cribs. This allows parents to make use of them for a longer amount of time, and to develop with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be turned into a bassinet or midi crib. It can also be transformed into a midi toddler's bed or a daybed that is full-sized. Its narrow width allows it to be easily moved and its circular design 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 are perfect for any nursery decor. These cribs are made of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for small mouths and hands. This reduces the risk of SIDS. These cribs come with four adjustable levels of mattress support, so you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be put together in an hour or less. They also come with a detailed instruction manual and the essential tools, so you don't have to purchase them separately. All cribs we tested were in compliance with CPSC safety requirements. However, some cribs had more components than others. Make sure you carefully go through the instructions prior to attempting assembly.