9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Good Cribs
Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're shopping for a crib, you'll need one that meets the highest safety standards, which are outlined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll need to find one that is suitable for your space and budget.
Our top picks are a contemporary, minimalist crib made from wood that is sustainable, a convertible crib which expands with the baby to an adult daybed and a Delta Children crib that comes in a range of attractive colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a quality crib is its security. When you are buying your first crib or replacing one that is old, 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 up or create a slanted sleeping surface. These objects have been associated with SIDS and other suffocation injuries among infants.
To ensure your baby's safety, 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 inspected by a third party and has passed the strictest safety requirements. Additionally, the mattress should be firm as mattresses with soft surfaces increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats need to be not more than two and three quarter inches apart in order to prevent the baby's head from getting caught between them. Also, make sure that the corner posts aren't higher than 1/16 inch to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on them.
If you're thinking about buying a used crib make sure that it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also important to buy a new crib that uses lead-free paint. This is because teething infants 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 you to transform the crib into an adult bed or a full-size cheap cot bed. They're not always easy to assemble and may require professional installation.
In addition to these attributes, a great crib should have sturdy sides and slats, which are strong enough to stop the crib from falling over or shifting in the course of time. It should also have a bottom for the drawer that is strong enough to support clothing and toys. Furthermore, the drawer must close and lock securely to keep your child from taking out the contents. Additionally, it should be able to hold the weight of a large blanket or quilt without sagging.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, therefore finding one that fits your decor style can be a fun task. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, ranging with modern and sleek options to classic designs. Some cribs have slats of different heights, and include toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to go on. Other features to consider include mattress height, and crib size.
Cribs are usually made from wood, but not all cribs are the same. Some cribs are made from hardwood which has a greater density and is derived from deciduous trees, which shed their leaves in the winter. Others are made of softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreens. Both have their benefits however, if you're looking for a crib that can last for a long time, it's best cots to choose the hardwood option.
A good crib is designed to ensure safety and comfort. It should not have sharp edges or other dangers that could entrap little ones fingers or legs. It must also have a large enough opening that allows for easy sheet changes. It is also important that the crib be properly fixed to its space and not placed near windows or other potential dangers.
When you are in the market for a new crib, it is important to be aware of the safety standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to prevent SIDS and cover a variety of aspects such as the size of your crib and the type of mattress you choose.
Most of the cribs we examined are in compliance with these standards or even exceed them However, some cribs are more strict than others. The Evolur Newbury crib for instance, is certified by GREENGUARD Gold and is made of sustainable-sourced hardwood and non-toxic finishes. It also meets or exceeds the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM requirements for build quality and spindle load support and heavy and chemical content.
It's more expensive than a few cribs we examined but it's an excellent option if you're looking for a modern and stylish crib that will last multiple siblings. It's also more substantial than some of the other cribs we reviewed, and it will make more space in your space than the smaller cribs we reviewed. 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 sturdy and safe materials that won't cause damage or break down over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can sleep comfortably. If you choose to use foam or innersprings, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It must be firm too since soft mattresses could increase SIDS risk. If you decide to purchase a mattress made of foam, look for one that has CertiPUR certification. This means the mattress 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 an extremely durable and long-lasting substance which is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is a great example of a top-quality wooden crib. It comes with four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted to an infant bed or a day bed and then a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will fit into any decor for your nursery and its non-toxic design will ensure that your baby's environment is safe and healthy.
If they have signs that they are damaged or are not being properly maintained or assembled it is time to replace them. These include decorative cutouts that can trap a baby's head, arms or legs; chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and other construction details that could be dangerous, such as inadequately spaced slats and drop sides. Also, decorative items such as bumpers, wedges and other decorative pieces are not recommended, as they may pose health risks to babies.
Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned company that makes wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Their furniture is handcrafted in Ohio by Amish craftsmen made of solid wood that's sustainable harvested. They use mortise and tenon joints, which are more durable than glues or nails, and they use kiln-dried wood. Their products can be found in specialty stores across the US and Canada. They can also be purchased online. They offer a wide selection of paint and stain choices and hardware options.
Cost
It is crucial to think about your budget when purchasing a crib. The best crib can add value to your nursery, and you can save money over time. In addition to being sturdy A good crib will be easy to put together and look stunning in the nursery. It is essential to purchase 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.
Many factors go into deciding which crib is right for your child, such as style and cost. Some of these factors, like the use of slats over flat panels, are just personal preferences, while others such as the crib size and mattress' height, are more practical. There are a variety of cribs. Some are small and can fit in tiny spaces and others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs are made to be more flexible than others. This allows parents to make use of them for a longer amount of time and to grow with their child. For instance the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, mid-sized crib, a toddler bed, good cribs or even a full-size toddler daybed, making it perfect for families with growing children. Its narrow width allows it to be easily moved and its circular shape creates a womb-like space for infants.
Other good cribs include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both feature sleek, minimalist designs that complement any decor for the nursery. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' hands and mouths, reducing the risk of SIDS. These cribs also come with four adjustable mattress support levels which allows you to move the mattress up as your baby grows.
The majority of modern cribs are easy to put together, and Mini Cot Beds take about an hour or less from beginning to completion. They also come with an extensive instruction manual and the necessary tools, so you don't have to buy the cribs separately. The cribs we reviewed all were compliant with the CPSC's safety guidelines However, some cribs had more parts than others, so be sure to read the instructions carefully before you attempt the assembly.