When looking for a crib you'll want to make sure 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 is compatible with your space and budget.
Our top picks include a contemporary minimalist crib made from sustainable wood; a convertible crib that can grow with baby into a toddler daybed and bed and a plethora of options from Delta Children that comes in many appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important aspects of a good crib is its security. If you are buying a brand new crib or replacing one that is old make sure that the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Also, avoid using bumper pads or sleep positioners, as well as other items that lift your infant up or create a slanted sleeping surface. These objects are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked with suffocation injuries in infants.
To ensure the safety of your baby Look for a crib that has the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals prove that the crib was tested by a third-party and meets the highest standards of safety. Soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be at least two and three quarter inches apart to avoid the baby's head getting trapped between them. Make sure that the corner posts don't exceed 1/16 inch in height, to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on the posts.
If you are thinking of buying a used crib check that it has not been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also recommended to purchase a crib with lead-free paint. This is because infants who are teething can chew on the rails, causing lead poisoning.
If you are considering buying a convertible crib make sure that the conversion kit is in line with CPSC standards. These kits allow you to transform the crib into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may require a professional to install.
In addition to these features, a good crib should have sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to prevent the crib from crashing or shifting over 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 to close and lock in a secure way so that your child cannot take the contents. It should also be able to hold the weight of heavy quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
The crib is the centerpiece of any nursery, so finding one that fits your decor style can be a fun task. There are a variety of cribs, ranging from sleek contemporary designs to classic designs. Some cribs have slats of different heights and come with toddler conversion kits once your child is ready to go on. Other things to consider are mattress height, and crib size.
Cribs are generally made from wood, but not all are made to be the same. Some are constructed from hardwood, which is denser and is sourced from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in winter. Others are made from softwood, which is lighter and comes from evergreen trees. Both have their benefits However, if you're searching for a crib that will last for many years it is recommended to choose a hardwood option.
A good crib is designed for safety and comfort. It should have no sharp edges or other hazards that could catch the fingers of a child or legs. It should also have a large enough opening for easy sheet changes. It's also important to make sure the crib is properly anchored to its place and not near any windows or other potential dangers.
If you're shopping for a crib, you need to be aware of the safety guidelines that the American Academy of Pediatrics and cots4tots.co.uk Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are geared towards the prevention of SIDS and cover a variety of factors including the size of the crib as well as the kind of mattress you select.
Some cribs are more rigorous than others, however the majority of them meet or exceed the standards. The Evolur Newbury crib is, for instance, GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of sustainable hardwood that is sourced from sustainable sources and has non-toxic finishes. It also exceeds or meets the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM specifications for building quality, spindle load support, and chemical and heavy metal content.
It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs we reviewed however if you're looking for a modern and stylish baby crib that will last for many generations it's an excellent option. It's also a little more substantial than the cribs we looked at, and it will make more space in your room than some of the smaller cribs we reviewed. It's more exposed to hardware compared to other cribs so it may not be suitable for an open-plan nursery.
Materials
A crib should be constructed from sturdy and safe materials that will not cause harm or break down over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can sleep comfortably. Whether you opt for foam or innerspring, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It must also be firm, because soft mattresses increase the risk of SIDS. Look for a foam mattress that has CertiPUR US certification. This means that the foam is manufactured without ozone depleters, PBDEs and TCEP flame retardants. It should also have no metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Another alternative 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 a good example of a high-quality wooden crib. It comes with four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they grow. Its classic design will blend in with any decor for your nursery, and its non-toxic construction will ensure your baby's environment is healthy and safe.
If they show signs that they are worn out or not being properly maintained or assembled It is the right time to replace them. This includes decorative cutouts that could trap the baby's head or legs, chips in paints that can expose them to harmful substances, splinters and other construction elements that are unsafe, such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. In addition, wedges, bumpers, and other decorative items should be avoided because they could pose a risk for a baby's health.
Romina is a family-owned company that makes safe, beautiful and eco-friendly wooden bassinets as well as cribs, cradles, and cradles. Their furniture is handmade in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that's sustainable harvested. They make use of mortise-and-tenon joints which are more durable than glues or nails, and they employ kiln dried wood. Their products are available in many specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also buy them online. They have a wide range of paint and stain options as well as a variety of hardware options.
Cost
Cribs can be expensive, so it is important to think about your budget prior to buying one. However, the right crib can add significant value to your nursery and save you money over the long haul. In addition to being sturdy A good crib is easy to put together and look stunning in the nursery. It is also essential to purchase a crib that adheres to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. It is recommended to register your crib with the CPSC that will permit you to receive recall notices earlier than you normally.
Style and cost are just two of the many aspects that go into choosing the best crib for your child. Some of these factors such as the use of slats versus flat panels, are purely personal preferences, while other, such as the size of the crib or the mattress's height, are more practical. There are many different types of cribs. Some are compact and can be tucked away in tiny spaces and others can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs are made to be more flexible than others. This allows parents to use them for a longer period of time, and to develop with their child. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be transformed into an midi crib or bassinet. It can also be converted into a midi toddler's bed or a daybed that is full-sized. Its slim width allows it to be easily moved 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 are modern, minimalist designs that are perfect for any decor for the nursery. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' hands and mouths, reducing the chance of SIDS. These cribs come with four levels of mattress support, which means you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be assembled within an hour or less. They also come with a thorough instruction manual and all the necessary tools, so you don't have to purchase them separately. All cribs we examined met the CPSC safety requirements. However there were some cribs with more parts than others. Be sure to carefully read the instructions before attempting assembly.
