Shopping For Good Cribs

If you're in the market for a crib, you'll need one that meets the highest safety standards, which are outlined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. You'll also want a crib that fits into your space and your budget.

Our top picks are a modern minimalist crib made of eco-friendly wood, a convertible crib which can be transformed with the baby into a daybed and toddler bed, and a Delta Children crib that comes in a variety of appealing colors.

Safety

Safety is one of the most important characteristics of a quality crib. If you're buying the crib for the first time or replacing one that is older make sure that the mattress and bedding meet government safety standards. Also, stay clear of bumper pads and sleep positioners as well as other items that lift your child up or create a slanted sleeping surface. These objects are known to increase the risk of SIDS and have been linked to suffocation-related injuries in infants.

If you want to ensure the safety of your baby, choose a crib with the seal of approval from either Consumer Products Safety Commission or Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. These seals prove that the crib was tested by a third-party and meets the highest standards of safety. Mattresses that are soft can increase the risk of SIDS. The crib slats must be not more than two and three quarter inches apart to prevent the infant's head getting trapped between them. Make sure the posts on the corners do not exceed 1/16 inch in height, to keep baby's clothes from getting caught on the posts.

In addition, if you're considering purchasing a used crib, check that it has not been involved in any recalls or accidents. You should also buy a crib that has paint that is free of lead. This is because teething infants can chew on the rails and cause lead poisoning.

In the end, if you choose to purchase a convertible crib, check whether the conversion kits are compliant with CPSC standards. These kits permit you to convert the crib into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They are not always easy-to-assemble and may require a professional to install.

A quality crib should be built with sturdy sides and slats that are strong enough to keep the crib from shifting or collapsing over time. It should also have a drawer bottom that is strong enough to hold toys and clothing. The drawer should also be able close and lock tightly so that your child cannot take the contents. In addition, it should be able to hold the weight of a heavy quilt or blanket without sagging.

Design

The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so finding one that fits your decor style can be a fun task. There are a variety of cribs to choose from, with modern and sleek options to classic designs. The slats are often different in height and some include toddler conversion kits for when your baby is ready to grow. Mattress height and crib size are also important features to consider.

Cribs are generally constructed from wood, however not all cribs are the same. Some are made from hardwood, which is denser and comes from deciduous trees that shed their leaves in the winter, while others are made of softwood, which is lighter and sourced from evergreen trees. Both have advantages However, if you're searching for a crib that can last through several children it is recommended to choose a hardwood crib.

A quality crib is built to provide safety and comfort. It should have no sharp corners or other potential hazards that could catch the fingers of a child or legs. It should have a wide enough opening to change the sheets easily. It is also crucial to ensure that the crib is securely fixed to its place and is not placed near any windows or other potential dangers.

If you're looking to buy a crib, you need to know the safety standards that the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission recommend. The standards are designed to prevent SIDS and cover a variety of aspects such as the size of your crib and the type of mattress you choose.

The majority of cribs we reviewed are in compliance with these standards or even exceed them However, some cribs are more stringent than others. 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, build quality, chemical and heavy metal content and ASTM requirements.

It's more expensive than a few of the other cribs we examined but it's an excellent option if you're looking for an elegant modern crib that will last multiple siblings. It's also a bit more substantial than some of the cribs we looked at, and it will have more space in your space than some of the smaller cribs we examined. It also has more exposed hardware than other cribs, which means it may not be the ideal fit for a small nursery.

Materials

A crib should be constructed from sturdy and safe materials that won't damage or break over time. It should be easy to clean so that your baby can rest comfortably. Whether you choose foam or innerspring, it should meet CPSC and JPMA safety standards. It should also be firm, as soft mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. If you opt for the foam mattress, search for one with CertiPUR-US certification. This means the mattress is free of ozone-depleting chemicals, PBDEs and fire retardants. It shouldn't contain metal coils or other harmful chemicals. Another option is natural latex, which is an extremely durable and long-lasting substance that is free of harmful chemicals.

The DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1 crib is a great example of a wood crib 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, day bed or a full-sized bed to meet the needs of your child as they develop. Its classic design will fit in with any decor for your nursery and its non-toxic design will ensure that your child's environment is healthy and safe.

Old cribs should be replaced if they are showing signs of wear or aren't correctly assembled or maintained. This includes cutouts with decorative designs that could keep the baby's head from being trapped, arms and legs, chipped paints that could expose them to harmful substances, splinters, and unsafe construction details such as inadequately-spaced slats or drop sides. Also, decorative items like wedges, bumpers and other ornamental pieces are not recommended, as they can pose health risks to babies.

Romina is an eco-friendly, safe and beautiful family-owned company that makes wooden cribs, cradles, and bassinets. The furniture is made in Ohio by Amish craftsmen made of solid wood that's sustainable harvested. They use mortise and Tenon joints, which are stronger than nails or glues, and they use kiln-dried wood. Their products are available at many specialty stores throughout the US and Canada. They are also available on the internet. They have a wide range of paint and stain choices and hardware options.

Cost

Cribs are expensive, so it is important to think about your budget prior to buying one. The best crib can add value to your nursery and will save money over time. A sturdy crib is durable and easy to put together, and looks great 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 and this will enable you to receive recall notices earlier than you would otherwise.

Many factors go into deciding the best crib for your child, such as the design and price. Certain of these aspects such as the use of slats or 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 various types of cribs, from small options that fit into smaller spaces to larger ones that can transform into toddler beds and full-size beds.

Some of the most popular cribs on the market are designed to be more adaptable than others which allows parents to get a lot of use from the crib and develop with their children. The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, can be turned into an midi crib or bassinet. It can also be converted into an midi toddler's crib or a full-size daybed. Its narrow width and wheels make it easy to move around, and its unique circular shape creates the illusion of a womb for infants.

Other cribs that are worth considering include the Babyletto Hudson and the Union 3-in-1. Both have sleek, minimalist designs that complement any decor for the nursery. They are made from sustainable New Zealand pine and are safe for babies' mouths and hands, reducing the chance of SIDS. The cribs also come with four levels of mattress support that can be adjusted, so you can move the mattress higher as your baby grows.

Most modern cribs can be erected in an hour or less. They also come with a detailed instruction manual as well as the essential tools, so you don't have to purchase the cribs separately. All cribs that we reviewed met the CPSC safety standards. However there were some cribs with more components than others. Be sure to read the instructions before attempting the assembly.