10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden To Help You Get Started With Good Cribs
Shopping For Good Cribs
When you are looking for a crib, you will want to make sure that it meets the standards of safety that are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll want to find one that's suitable for your budget and space.
Our top picks include a modern minimalist crib made from sustainable wood and a convertible crib that grows with baby into a toddler daybed and bed; and a versatile option from Delta Children that comes in various appealing colors.
Safety
One of the most important elements of a good crib is its safety. If you are looking for your first crib or replacing an older one, make sure the mattress and other bedding items meet the standards set by the government. Avoid using bumper pads or positioners as well as other products that elevate your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These items have been associated with SIDS and suffocation injuries among infants.
To ensure the safety of your baby ensure your baby's safety, choose cribs that bear the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) or Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) seal of approval. These seals prove that the crib was inspected by a third-party and has met the highest standards of safety. In addition the mattress should be firm, as mattresses with soft surfaces increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be spaced at least 2 and 3/8 inches apart to prevent the baby's head from getting stuck between them. Make sure the posts on the corners do not exceed 1/16 inch in height, to avoid a baby's clothing catching on them.
In addition, if you're thinking of buying a used crib make sure it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also important to buy a crib that uses lead-free paint. This is because teething infants can chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.
In the end, if you opt to buy a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kits comply with CPSC standards. These kits let you convert the crib into an adult bed or a full-size bed. They're not always easy to assemble and may need professional installation.
A good crib must have slats and sides that are strong enough to prevent the crib from shifting or collapsing over time. It must also have a drawer bottom that is strong enough to hold toys and clothing. Furthermore, the drawer must close and lock securely to keep your child from ripping out the contents. In addition it should be able to hold the weight of a large blanket or quilt without falling.
Design
The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so finding one that fits your decor style can be a jolly task. There are many cribs, from modern and sleek designs to classic styles. Some cribs come with slats that are different heights and come with toddler conversion kits when your child is ready to go on. Mattress height and crib size are also important features to consider.
Cribs are usually made from wood, but not all are created equal. Some are constructed from hardwood, which is more dense and is sourced from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter. Others are made of softwood which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both have advantages but if your goal is to purchase an affordable crib that will last for many children hardwood is the ideal option.
A crib that is well-designed to be safe and comfortable. It should have no sharp corners or other potential hazards that could trap a little one's fingers or legs. It should also have a wide enough opening to change the sheets easily. It's also important to ensure that the crib is securely fixed to its place, and not placed close to any windows or other potential dangers.
If you're looking to buy a crib, you need to be aware of the safety guidelines that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are designed to assist in the prevention of SIDS, and they cover a range of aspects including the size of the crib as well as the kind of mattress you choose to use.
The majority of cribs we reviewed meet or exceed these standards, but some are more strict 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, quality of construction, chemical and heavy metal content, and ASTM requirements.
It's more expensive than a few cribs we looked at but it's an excellent choice if you want an elegant modern crib that will last many siblings. Baby beds 's also more substantial than some of the cribs we examined and will take up more square footage in your space than some of the smaller cribs we examined. It's more exposed to hardware than other cribs, so it may not be suitable for an open-plan nursery.
Materials
A crib should be built with materials that are durable and safe, meaning they won't split or break over time. It must be easy to clean so that your baby can sleep peacefully. No matter if you choose foam or innerspring, it should meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It must also be firm as soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you choose the foam mattress, search for one that has CertiPUR-US certification. This means that the foam is free of ozone depleting chemicals, PBDEs and TCEP fire retardants. It shouldn't contain metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Natural latex is an alternative. It is a durable and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 crib is an excellent example of a premium wood crib. It has four mattress-levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can be converted into a toddler bed, day bed and a full-sized bed, to meet the needs of your child as they develop. Its classic design can fit in with any decor for your nursery, and its non-toxic construction will ensure that your baby's environment is healthy and safe.
Old cribs should be replaced when they are showing signs of wear or aren't correctly assembled or maintained. These include decorative cutouts that can entrap the baby's head, arms, or legs and chipped paint that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters and unsafe construction details like poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Additionally, items that are decorative such as wedges, bumpers and other ornamental pieces should be avoided as they may pose health risks for infants.
Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned business that produces wooden cribs, cradles and bassinets. Their furniture is handcrafted in Ohio by Amish craftsmen using solid wood that is sustainable harvested. They make use of mortise-and-tenon joints which are stronger than glues or nails, and they use the kiln-dried wood. The products are available in specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. You can also buy the items online. They offer a number of different stain and paint options, along with a variety of hardware.
Cost
Cribs are expensive and it is crucial to think about your budget prior to purchasing one. But, the right crib can add value to your nursery and help you save money in the long term. In addition to being sturdy, a good crib will be simple to put together and look stunning in the nursery. It is crucial to choose an item that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. It is recommended to register your crib with the CPSC, which will allow you to receive recall notices sooner than you would otherwise.
Many factors influence which crib is right for your child, such as the style and cost. Some of these factors, like the use of slats over flat panels, are just personal preferences, while others like the size of the crib and mattress' height, are more practical. There are many different types of cribs. Some are compact and fit into small spaces and others can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the top cribs are designed to be more adaptable than other cribs. This lets parents utilize cribs for a longer period of time and also to grow with their child. For example, the Stokke Sleepi Bed can transform into a bassinet, mid-sized crib, a toddler bed, and even a full-size toddler or daybed, which makes it the ideal choice for families that are growing. Its narrow width allows it to be moved easily and its circular shape creates a womb-like environment for infants.
Other cribs that are worth considering include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both feature sleek, minimalist designs that complement any decor for the nursery. These cribs are made from sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for babies with small hands and mouths. This lowers the risk of SIDS. The cribs come with four levels of adjustable mattress support, which means you can raise the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of modern cribs can be assembled in a matter of hours or less. The cribs come with an instruction manual and the tools needed. It is not necessary to purchase the cribs separately. All cribs we tested met the CPSC safety standards. However there were some cribs with more parts than others. Make sure you carefully read the instructions prior to beginning assembly.