Cheap Baby Cribs - For and Against
When you bring your bouncing new baby home, you will want to have essentials in place ready, including the baby’s crib. But with all of the many varieties on the market today and with most people attempting to stick to some type of budget, how is one to know what to look for, which brand or model is better than another, or how cheap is “too cheap?”
Government safety standards for cribs are there for very good reasons, so take them into account when choosing a crib for your newborn, or expected, baby. The US, for example, has compulsory safety standards, covering things such as the gap between the cribs slats or bars. The height to the top of the safety rails is important when considering safety, but bear in mind that it is the distance from the top of mattress which is key.
Older cribs (pre 1978 in the US) may contain lead in the paint, so beware when buying second hand cribs of that age; new is best.
The Advantages of Buying Cheap Baby Cribs
If you’re on a budget, cheap baby cribs can be a real lifesaver, provided of course, that they meet all of the necessary safety requirements and are well constructed. Inexpensive cribs will also allow for more monies to be spent on other much needed items, such as the crib’s bedding, bumper pads if you choose to use them, blankets, and the ever essential mattress pads, not to mention all of the other things baby will need like a stroller, or a walker, a high chair, and a playpen.
To buy a cheap crib remains an option for those strapped for cash, because the safety standards are the same for cheap and expensive cribs. Buying a used crib can be risky, as you do not know it’s history for sure or whether it meets modern safety standards.
Examples of well made but relatively cheap baby cribs are Jenny Lind, Great Beginnings and Graco.
The Disadvantages of Buying Cheap Baby Cribs
Low cost baby cribs are rarely made from “real” wood, which makes them not quite as strong and durable as their authentic counterparts. For long term economy, be sure to buy a tough crib that can withstand the most active of growing babies, some of whom jump up and down viigorously while still crib bound.
Some of the cheaper baby cribs amy lack the features of those cribs which cost more, such as the ease with which you can raise and lower the sides to put in/remove the baby. One vital safety feature to watch for is an easy to use but effective safety lock on the side rails, so the baby cannot find an easy way out as they become active later.
Some other possible risks of purchasing Inexpensive cribs are manufacturing defects, such as sharp edges or points, creases and cracks, or holes or splinters in the wood. While we all want to get a good bargain and save money whenever we can, sacrificing our baby’s safety or well being certainly isn’t worth saving a few dollars.