How to Paint or Stain a Crib Safely
If you are preparing for a new baby in the house, learn how to print or stain a crib safely for the nursery to look as clean and pulled together as possible. Do not just slap any old coat of paint on your crib; after all, your baby is probably going to use it as a teether at some point.
First: Clean the crib thoroughly
Whether you are refinishing an existing crib or changing a natural crib, you must clean it thouroughly. Before you paint or stain your crib, wash it down well with hot water, a sponge and nontoxic or natural soap. Take the crib outside and use a garden hose to rinse the soap off, then let it dry completely before bringing it back inside.
Second: Sand down the crib
If you sand the crib before painting or staining, the wood is able to absorb more color. Use a rough sandpaper to give yourself a more absorbent canvas on which to work.
Third: Use non-toxic materials
Ensure that all the materials you use are non-toxic, including paint, wood conditioner and wood sealer. You can never practice too much caution when it comes to something your baby uses each and every day. Let the crib dry entirely between layers of paint or stain in order to prevent unnecessary buildup or mess.
Fourth: Take basic safety precautions for yourself too
Because it is not just your baby you want to concern yourself about, when attempting any sort of DIY project like this, wear a dust mask and gloves while sanding or staining your crib. This ensures that you do not inhale any dust or fumes; it also ensures you do not stain your hands.