The Worst Advice We've Been Given About Good Cribs
Shopping For Good Cribs If you're shopping for a crib, you'll want one that meets the highest safety standards, as defined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want one that is compatible with your space and budget. Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib that is made of sustainable wood; a convertible crib that can grow as a toddler into a daybed and bed as well as a multi-functional crib from Delta Children that comes in several visually appealing colorways. Safety One of the most important aspects of a crib that is worth buying is its security. When you are buying your first crib or replacing an older one, make sure the mattress and other bedding meets government safety standards. Also, avoid bumper pads, sleep positioners and other items that lift your infant or create a sleeping surface that is angled. These objects have been linked to SIDS and the risk of suffocation among infants. To ensure your baby's safety Look for cribs that have the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals indicate that the crib has been tested by a third-party and meets the highest safety requirements. Additionally the mattress should be firm, as mattresses with soft surfaces increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats need to be no more than two and three quarter inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting caught between them. Check that the corner posts do not exceed 1/16 inches in height to avoid a baby's clothing catching on them. In addition, if you're considering buying 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 due to the fact that babies who are teething can chew on the rails and lead poisoning can result. Lastly, if you opt to buy a convertible crib, check whether the conversion kits are compliant with CPSC standards. These kits allow you to convert the crib into a toddler bed or full-size bed. However, they're not always easy to assemble and may require professional installation. A quality crib should have strong sides and slats that are strong enough to prevent the crib from shifting or collapsing in the course of time. It should also have a drawer bottom that is strong enough to hold toys and clothing. The drawer must also be able to close and lock securely so that your child is unable to take the contents. Furthermore, it should be able to hold the weight of a heavy quilt or blanket without falling. Design The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so finding one that matches your decorating style can be a rewarding task. There are a variety of cribs, ranging from modern and sleek designs to classic designs. The slats tend to be of various heights, and some come with toddler conversion kits to help you when your baby is ready to go up. Mattress height and crib size are also important factors to consider. Cribs are generally made of wood, but not all cribs are the same. Some cribs are made of hardwood, which has a higher density and is derived from deciduous trees which lose their leaves during the winter. Others are made of softwood that is lighter and comes from evergreens. Both have their benefits however, if you're looking for a crib that can last for many years it is best to select a hardwood option. A crib that is well-designed for safety and comfort. It should not have sharp edges or other hazards that could trap the fingers of a child or legs. It should have a large enough opening to allow changing of sheets easily. It is also essential that the crib is anchored to its room and not placed close to windows or other potential dangers. If you are looking for a new crib it is crucial to be aware of safety standards recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a range of aspects, including 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 are more stringent 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 surpasses the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM specifications for building quality as well as spindle load support and heavy metal and chemical content. It's more expensive than many cribs we examined but it's an excellent option for those looking for a stylish modern crib that will last several siblings. It's also more substantial than the cribs we looked at and will take up more square footage in your bedroom than the smaller cribs we looked at. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, so it might not be the best fit for a minimal nursery. great crib should be made with durable 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 in peace. Whether you choose innerspring or foam, it should meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should also be firm, since soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Look for a foam mattress that is CertiPUR US 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 option is natural latex, which is an extremely durable and long-lasting substance that's free of harmful chemicals. The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is an excellent model of a wooden crib built to last. It comes with four mattress levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted to a toddler bed or day bed, and later a full-sized bed as your child grows. Its classic design blends in with any nursery decor, and its non-toxic material will ensure your baby's safe and healthy environment. Old cribs need to be replaced if they show signs of wear or aren't properly maintained or assembled. This includes decorative cutouts which could keep the baby's head from being trapped, legs and arms, chipped 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 decorative pieces should be avoided as they could pose health hazards to babies. Romina is a family-owned business that produces beautiful, safe, and eco-friendly wooden bassinets cribs, cradles and cribs. Amish craftsmen in Ohio create their furniture using sustainably harvested solid wood. They make use of mortise and tenon joints that are more durable than glues and nails, and they use heated wood. Their products are available at many specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They are also available on the internet. They provide a range of paint and stain options, as well as various hardware options. Cost Cribs are expensive, so it is important to consider your budget before buying one. The right crib can add value to your nursery, and you will save money over time. Apart from being durable the best crib will be easy to put together and will look beautiful in the nursery. It is crucial to choose a crib that adheres with Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. Registering your crib with CPSC will enable you to receive recall notices earlier than if you did not register your crib. Cost and style are only two of the many factors that influence the selection of the best crib for your child. Some of these factors, like the use of slats over flat panels, are solely personal preferences, while other like the crib size and mattress' height are more practical. There are many different types of cribs. Some are compact and fit into smaller spaces, while others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds. The best cribs are made to be more flexible than other cribs. This allows parents to make use of cribs for a longer period of time, and to develop with their child. For example the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet midi crib, a midi toddler bed, or even a full-size toddler daybed, which makes it the ideal choice for families with growing children. Its small width and wheels allow it to move around in, while its unique circular shape creates a womb-like environment for babies. The Babyletto Hudson crib and the Union 3-in-1 crib are also good alternatives. Both feature sleek minimalist designs that will fit in with any nursery decor. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for little hands and mouths, reducing the risk of SIDS. These cribs also come with four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted that allow you to raise the mattress higher as your baby grows. Most modern cribs can be erected in a matter of hours or less. The cribs come with a manual for assembly along with the tools required. There is no need to purchase them separately. All cribs we examined met the CPSC safety standards. However there were some cribs with more parts than others. Be sure to carefully read the instructions before attempting assembly.