When choosing furniture for your babies, toddlers, and kids, you have several things to keep in mind. How safe is this product? Does it meet the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC ) safety guidelines? That may not be enough. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) sets a higher safety standard for certification than the CPSC does. The JPMA certified product index gives you a constantly updated list of manufacturers of JPMA-certified baby cribs.
But is that enough? While JPMA may certify that there is no lead in the furniture paint, there may be other toxic substances that JPMA doesn't check for, and aren't regulated in the industry. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and formaldehyde are found in many conventional paints, paint strippers, varnishes, furniture oils, caulking, glues, adhesives, and wood preservatives. You need to check what emissions are wafting out of the furniture with the cute decorations. There is nothing cute about sick babies.
The other thing you need to consider is how easy it will be to clean the furniture. Juveniles aren't sterile beings; you will be doing lots of wiping, moping, and disinfecting. Take that into account when you choose furniture. Is it easy to clean underneath? Does it have molding and decorative grooves that will be difficult to scrub? Where might the germs and dust hide from you? Choosing kid's furniture is all about foresight and prevention.