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 a crib that fits into your space and your budget.
Our top picks are a contemporary minimalist crib constructed from sustainable wood, a convertible crib which expands with the baby to an adult daybed, and a Delta Children crib that comes with a variety of attractive colors.Safety
Safety is one of the most important features of a crib that is safe. If you are purchasing the crib for the first time or replacing one that is older make sure that the mattress and bedding are in compliance with government safety standards. Avoid using bumper pads and positioners, as well as other objects that elevate your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These objects have been associated with SIDS and other suffocation injuries in infants.
If you want 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 show that the crib was inspected by a third-party and meets the highest standards of safety. Additionally the mattress must be firm, since 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 avoid the baby's head getting caught between them. Make sure that the corner posts do not exceed 1/16 inch in height to ensure that baby's clothing doesn't get caught on them.
If you are thinking of buying a used crib, be sure it's not involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also recommended to purchase a crib that has paint that is free of lead. 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 permit the crib to convert into a toddler or full-size mattress. 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 falling over or shifting over time. It should also have a strong enough bottom that can hold toys and clothes. Furthermore, the drawer must close and lock securely to keep your child from taking out the contents. It should also be able support the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
Finding a crib that fits your style of decoration can be fun. There are a variety of cribs available, including modern, sleek models to classic-looking designs. The slats are often of various heights and some are equipped with toddler conversion kits in case your baby is ready to move up. The crib's size and mattress height are other important aspects to take into consideration.
Cribs are generally constructed from wood, however not all cribs are made of wood. Some cribs are constructed of hardwood that has a higher density and comes from deciduous trees, which lose their leaves during the winter. Others are made of softwood, which is lighter and is sourced from evergreens. Both options have advantages but if your goal is to purchase a crib that can last for several children hardwood is the ideal option.
A good crib is designed to be safe and comfortable. It should not contain sharp corners or other hazards that could trap the child's fingers or legs. It should have a large enough opening to change the sheets easily. It is also crucial that the crib is anchored to its room and not placed near windows or other potential 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. These standards are focused on the prevention of SIDS, and they cover a variety of factors including the dimensions of the crib and the kind of mattress you choose to use.
Some cribs are more stringent than others, but the majority of them meet or surpass the standards. For instance, 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, quality of construction chemical and heavy metal content, and ASTM requirements.
It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs we looked at however if you're looking for a chic modern baby crib that will last for many generations, this is a great option. It is also more substantial than other cribs that we've reviewed. It will also take up more space in your bedroom compared to some of the smaller ones we have considered. It's got more exposed hardware compared to other cribs so it may not be suitable for an uncluttered nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed from materials that are durable and safe, meaning they won't splinter or damage over time. It must also be easy to clean, so that your baby can rest comfortably. Whether you opt for foam or innerspring mattresses, the mattress must meet CPSC safety standards. It should also be firm, as soft mattresses can increase SIDS risk. Choose a mattress that is CertiPUR US certification. This means the mattress is free of ozone-depleting chemicals, PBDEs and fire retardants. It should not contain any metal coils, or any other harmful chemicals. Another alternative is natural latex which is known as a durable and long-lasting material which is free of harmful chemicals.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great model of a wooden crib that is made to last. 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 a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design will blend into any nursery decor and its non-toxic materials will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment.
If they have signs that they are worn out or aren't being properly assembled or maintained, it is time to replace them. These include decorative cutouts that could trap the 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 poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Also, wedges, bumpers, and other decorative items should be avoided because they also pose dangers to the health of a baby.
Romina is an eco-friendly family-owned, safe and beautiful business that produces wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. Amish craftsmen from Ohio create their furniture using sustainable wood. They use mortise-and-tenon joints that are stronger than glues or nails, and they utilize kiln dried wood. The products are sold in many specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy the items on the internet. They offer a wide selection of paint and stain options as well as a variety of hardware options.
Cost
It is crucial to consider your budget when buying a crib. But, the right crib can add significant value to your nursery and save you money in the long term. A quality crib is sturdy and easy to set up, and looks great in the nursery. It is also essential to purchase cribs that comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. It is recommended that you register your crib with the CPSC and this will enable you to receive recall notices sooner than you would normally.
Style and cost are just two of the many elements that go into choosing the ideal crib for your child. Some of these factors are personal preference, like whether to choose flat panels or slats while others are more practical and essential for crib sizes and the mattress's height. There are a variety of cribs. Some are compact and can be tucked away in small spaces, while others can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs on the market are designed to be more flexible 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 mini crib, a midi toddler bed, or even a full-size toddler or daybed, making it ideal for growing families. Its narrow width allows it to be moved easily and its circular design creates a womb-like environment for infants.
The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are great options. Both cribs feature minimalist, sleek designs that will complement any decor in the nursery. These cribs are made of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for small mouths and hands. This reduces the chance of SIDS. The cribs come with four levels of adjustable mattress support, meaning you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
Most modern cribs can be put together in an hour or less. They also come with an extensive instruction manual and all the essential tools, so you don't have to purchase them separately. All cribs we tested conformed to the CPSC safety requirements. However there were some cribs with more parts than others. Make sure you carefully read the instructions prior to beginning assembly.
