Nine Things That Your Parent Teach You About Good Cribs
Shopping For Good Cribs
If you're shopping for a crib, you'll need one that meets high safety standards, as defined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll want to find one that's suitable for your space and budget.
Our top rated cots picks are a modern, minimalist crib made from eco-friendly wood, a convertible crib which expands with the Baby Cot Bed to a daybed and toddler bed, and a Delta Children crib that comes with a variety of attractive colors.
Safety
One of the most important features of a good crib is its security. If you are purchasing a new crib or replacing one that is older make sure the mattress and bedding meet the government safety standards. Avoid using bumper pads and positioners, as well as other products that elevate your infant or create an angle sleeping surface. These items are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked to suffocation injuries in infants.
If you are looking to ensure the safety of your baby pick a crib that has 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 that it meets the highest standards of safety. Soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats should be no more than two and three-quarter inches apart in order to prevent the baby's head from getting trapped between them. Also, check 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, be sure that it hasn't been involved in any recalls or accidents. It is also crucial to buy a crib that uses lead-free paint. This is due to the fact that babies who are teething may chew on the rails and lead poisoning can result.
Also, if you purchase a convertible crib, ensure that the conversion kit meets CPSC standards. These kits allow the crib to convert into a toddler or full-size mattress. They're not always simple to put together and may need professional installation.
In addition to these attributes, a great crib should have sturdy sides and slats, which are strong enough to keep the crib from crashing or shifting over time. It must also have a bottom for the drawer that is sturdy enough to hold clothing and toys. The drawer should also be able close and lock in a secure way so that your baby cannot remove the contents. It should also be able take the weight of large quilts or blankets without sagging.
Design
The crib is the center of any nursery, therefore finding one that matches your decorating style can be a jolly task. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, ranging with modern and sleek options to classic-looking designs. The slats are often of different heights and some are equipped with toddler conversion kits for when your baby is ready to grow. Mattress height and crib size are other important aspects to take into consideration.
Cribs are typically made from wood, but not all cribs are the same. Some cribs are constructed of hardwood which has a greater density and comes from deciduous trees which shed their leaves in the winter. Others are made from softwood which is lighter, and is sourced from evergreens. Both have advantages, but if your goal is to buy a crib that can last for a number of children hardwood is the ideal choice.
A crib that is well-constructed is designed for comfort and safety. It should not contain sharp corners or other potential hazards which could cause injury to children's fingers or their legs. It should have a large enough opening that allows you to change the sheets easily. It's also important to make sure the crib is properly anchored in its room and is not placed close to any windows or top ranked cribs other possible dangers.
If you're shopping for cribs, it's crucial to be aware of the safety guidelines that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are designed to avoid SIDS and cover a range of aspects, including the dimensions of your crib as well as the mattress you choose to use.
The majority of cribs we looked at 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 GREENGUARD Gold-certified and made of sustainably-sourced hardwood with non-toxic finishes. It also meets or surpasses the CPSIA, CFR, and ASTM specifications for building quality and spindle load support and heavy and chemical content.
It's more expensive than some cribs we looked at, but it's a great choice if you want an elegant modern crib that will last through several siblings. It's also a bit larger than the cribs we examined and will make more space in your bedroom than the smaller cribs we reviewed. It has more exposed hardware compared to other cribs therefore it might not be suitable for an open-plan nursery.
Materials
A crib should be made with durable and safe materials that won't damage or break down over time. It must be easy to clean so that your child can rest comfortably. Whether you opt for innerspring or foam, the mattress should meet CPSC safety standards. It should also be firm, as soft mattresses can increase SIDS risk. Choose a mattress that has the 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 any other hazardous chemicals. Natural latex is a different option. It is a durable and long-lasting chemical-free material.
The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great example of a crib made of wood that is made to last. It comes with four mattress levels and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It can also be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-sized bed to accommodate your child's needs as they develop. Its classic design will blend in with any decor in the nursery and its non-toxic materials will ensure your baby's safety and healthy environment.
Old cribs should be replaced if they are showing signs of wear or have not been properly assembled or maintained. These include decorative cutouts that can entrap the baby's head, arms, or legs or legs; chipped paint that may expose them to harmful substances; splinters; and other construction details that could be dangerous like poorly spaced slats and drop sides. Also, decorative items such as bumpers, wedges and other decorative pieces should be avoided, because they could pose health hazards to infants.
Romina is a family-owned firm that manufactures beautiful, safe and eco-friendly wooden bassets as well as cribs, cradles, and cradles. Amish craftsmen from Ohio make their furniture using sustainably harvested solid wood. They use mortise and tenon joints, which are stronger than glues or nails, and they make use of kiln dried wood. Their products can be found in specialty stores across the US and Canada. You can also purchase these products online. They provide a range of different stain and paint options, along with a variety of hardware.
Cost
It is important to take into consideration your budget when purchasing a crib. But, the right crib can add value to your nursery and save you money over the long haul. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to set up and looks stunning in the nursery. It is also essential to select cribs that conform to Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations. It is recommended that you register your crib with the CPSC, which will allow you to receive recall notices earlier than you would normally.
Cost and style are only two of the many factors that go into choosing the right crib for your child. Certain aspects such as the use of slats over flat panels, are solely personal preference, while other like the size of the crib or the mattress's height are more practical. There are a variety of cribs. Some are small and can be tucked away in smaller spaces and others can be converted to toddler beds or full-size beds.
Some of the best cribs are designed to be more adaptable than others. This lets parents make use of cribs for a longer period of time and also to grow with their child. For instance, the Stokke Sleepi cheap cot bed can transform into a bassinet, midi crib, a midi toddler bed, and 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 babies.
Other good cribs (description here) 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 of sustainable New Zealand Pine and are safe for babies with small cot beds mouths and hands. This reduces the risk of SIDS. The cribs also come with four adjustable mattress support levels that allow you to raise the mattress up as your baby grows.
Modern cribs are easy to put together, taking around an hour or less from start to finish. The cribs come with a manual for assembly and the tools required. There is no need to purchase cribs separately. The cribs we tested met the CPSC's safety requirements, but some had more parts than others, so make certain to read the instructions carefully before attempting the assembly.