The answer is yes, but it has to be done right. Baby-safe paints are available at most stores that sell paint and hardware supplies. They’re usually in the same aisle as other children’s products because they have a low odor and contain no lead or heavy metals. And if you want a new crib, you can buy one pre-painted from many online retailers. But remember: Safety trumps style! So even if the perfect color is out there waiting for you–go with boring white instead of chartreuse green or hot pink just this once. The safety of your child should always come before fashion concerns–no matter how much fun decorating might sound now!
1. Why is painting a baby’s crib important ?
Painted cribs were common years ago, but now new safety standards have removed most paint from the market because of its lead content. The danger was that parents might use “lead-based” paint to mimic more expensive antiques. Some painted cribs are still on the market, but they’re considered safe only if they bear a specific lead-paint warning label
2. What type of paint should be used and why
VOC-free paint should be used because it is baby-safe.
Baby-safe paint comes in a variety of colors and adheres to the crib’s surface without emitting noxious fumes or trapping dust, chemicals, or allergens inside the wood veneer grain–which is particularly important if you have allergies yourself!
3. How to paint a baby’s crib with the right tools and materials
First, remove the dust cover from the Springs using a screwdriver. Use tin snips to cut any excess fabric. Then you’re going to need Wire Brushes and a Paint Stripper that is safe for baby cribs–STOP! Don’t use paint strippers that contain methylene chloride or n-methyl pyrrolidone. Instead, go for a spray stripper that’s safe for children and use it according to the label’s instructions.
Before you start painting, use painter’s tape or masking paper to cover your bed frame and all nearby furniture like night stands.
Protect your flooring using drop cloths and place plastic over the windows before you start. Use 3-inch natural bristle brushes, following the grain of the wood while extending 1 inch past it on all sides. Allow time to dry between coats until desired finish is achieved.
4. The importance of safety precautions when painting, such as wearing gloves and goggles
Use chemical-resistant gloves when you paint, and wear goggles or a mask to avoid splashing. Be sure to wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and clothes that cover your arms. If you get some of the paint on your skin, use soap and plenty of water to remove it–and don’t forget to put the clothing you wore to paint the crib in a plastic bag and wash it as soon as you can.
5. Caring for the newly-painted surface after it has dried
After your crib dries, remove the tape and paper. Re-attach the dust cover to the Springs and place it back on the mattress support. Clean up any excess paint with a chemical paint remover that’s safe for baby cribs–following label instructions carefully! You can put plastic bags over your hands or gloves if necessary,but be sure to avoid breathing in the fumes. Remember that ventilation is important–open a window if you can.
And you’re all done! Congratulations on painting your baby’s crib, and remember always to read labels carefully–that’s how you’ll know what’s safe for children. If this was your first crib makeover, please feel free to send us pictures to feature in our gallery.
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