Darling Baby Cribs

Bonavita La Madre Collection in Cherry – By LaJobi

JUNE 29 2010

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This new collection by LaJobi has been made from environmentally friendly glues and finishes and its wood collected from sustainable forests. Further, all of LaMadre’s outer packaging will contain recycled materials and its inner packaging will be biodegradable. So if you are concerned about the environmental consequence of your purchase, then the Bonavita La Madre Crib is a wise choice.

what it includes

· Convertible Crib, including:

o Toddler Bed Conversion Rail Kit

o Full Size Bed Conversion Rail Kit

· Combo Dresser

· Combo Hutch

· 5 Drawer Dresser

Kids Today

LaJobi partners with Kathy Ireland Worldwide
Kids Today Staff
6/16/2010
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CRANBURY, N.J. - Infant and juvenile furniture company, LaJobi has signed a multi-year agreement with Kathy Ireland Worldwide, the design and marketing company founded by CEO and Chief Designer Kathy Ireland. LaJobi is the exclusive, nursery furniture licensing partner for Kathy Ireland Home.

The companies will introduce a line of wood nursery furniture, glider chairs, ottomans and crib mattresses. Cribs in the collection will be lifestyle cribs which convert from crib to toddler bed, day bed, or a full size bed offering multiple uses from infancy to adulthood and allowing the furniture to grow with the child.

"We are extremely pleased to team with Kathy to produce a line of nursery furniture to suit the lives of families and especially busy and discerning moms," said Barbara Rogers, director of marketing and product development at LaJobi Inc. "Kathy is one of the most influential voices when it comes to home style and here at LaJobi we are known for staying on trend with style and innovation and the mission of Kathy Ireland Worldwide is a great match."

Ireland is excited as well.

"Partnering with the great team at LaJobi Inc. is a dream come true. Our discussions have taken place for a great deal of time as we've learned wonderful things about these extraordinary leaders in the category of nursery furniture," she said. "We are very proud to bring our vision of nursery furniture to life with LaJobi It is our belief that these products will bring great excitement, fashion, quality, value and safety to our retail partners, partners and customers."

The lines will launch this fall.

SmartBrief

LaJobi Inc. Partners with Kathy Ireland Worldwide
June 7, 2010
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LaJobi Inc., a designer, manufacturer and distributor of leading brands of infant and juvenile furniture, is excited to announce a multi-year agreement with kathy ireland Worldwide®, the design and marketing company founded by CEO and Chief Designer Kathy Ireland. LaJobi is the exclusive, nursery furniture licensing partner for kathy ireland Home®.

LaJobi and kathy ireland Home®, together will introduce a line of wood nursery furniture, glider chairs, ottomans and crib mattresses. Cribs in the collection will be Lifestyle® cribs which convert from crib to toddler bed, day bed, or a full size bed offering multiple uses from infancy to adulthood and allowing the furniture to grow with the child.

"We are extremely pleased to team with Kathy to produce a line of nursery furniture to suit the lives of families and especially busy and discerning moms," said Barbara Rogers, Director of Marketing and Product Development at LaJobi Inc. "Kathy is one of the most influential voices when it comes to home style and here at LaJobi we are known for staying on trend with style and innovation and the mission of kathy ireland Worldwide® is a great match."

"Partnering with the great team at LaJobi Inc. is a dream come true. Our discussions have taken place for a great deal of time as we've learned wonderful things about these extraordinary leaders in the category of nursery furniture. We are very proud to bring our vision of nursery furniture to life with LaJobi It is our belief that these products will bring great excitement, fashion, quality, value and safety™ to our retail partners, partners and customers," said Kathy.

The lines will be launching this fall.

About LaJobi Inc.:

LaJobi Inc., a designer, manufacturer and distributor of leading brands of infant and juvenile furniture, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kid Brands, Inc., (NYSE: KID), Kid Brands, Inc. is a designer, importer, marketer and distributor of infant and juvenile consumer products that acquired LaJobi in April of 2008.

Originally named for its founders, brothers Larry and Joe Bivona, LaJobi remains known for commitment to top-quality workmanship, design, service and uncompromising dedication to quality and innovation. The company manufactures markets and distributes five top brands of juvenile furniture including Bonavita, Babi Italia, Europa Baby, Graco, as well as Serta crib mattresses. LaJobi was the first to design, manufacture and introduce the Lifestyle® crib, which was recently recognized as a Consumer's Digest Best Buy. And, LaJobi products meet the rigorous standards of consumer safety certification requirements by leading organizations including the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the American Society for Testing and Materials Standards.

LaJobi products are available in thousands of retail outlets throughout the United States as well as through Internet retailers. The company is located at 257 Prospect Plains, Cranbury, New Jersey 08512. More information about LaJobi, its brands and their related collections can be found at www.lajobi.com or (888) 266-2848.

About kathy ireland Worldwide:

kathy ireland Worldwide® (kiWW®) is the design and marketing firm founded in 1993 by CEO and Chief Designer, Kathy Ireland.

The mission of kiWW® is"…finding solutions for families, especially busy moms."™

Forbes, Newsweek and Wall Street Journal acknowledge, kathy ireland Worldwide® (kiWW®), as a "$1.4 billion design empire".

Women's Wear Daily recognizes kiWW® as America's 7th most popular in its category. House Beautiful celebrates kiWW® as one of the 25 "Great Furniture Collections" in America. kiWW® is the 23^rd Most Powerful Licensed Brand in the world, according to License Global Magazine. This ranking surpasses Liz Claiborne, Tommy Bahama and Polo Ralph Lauren. To date, kiWW® has earned five Good Housekeeping Seals. Kathy rang The Closing Bell® at the NYSE to celebrate the launch of her book, REAL SOLUTIONS FOR BUSY MOMS: Your Guide to Success and Sanity, a best selling parenting guide.

kathy ireland Worldwide® products include flooring, rugs, home furniture, office and entertainment furniture, lighting, decorative accessories, window coverings, wall coverings, bedding, ceiling fans, mattresses, candles, apparel, socks, skincare, jewelry, baby bedding and accessories, leather, hand painted porcelain, fire resistant products, tote bags, frames, hand bags, travel bags, tabletop accessories, wall décor, clocks, giftware, Christmas ornaments, Wick Snipper, top of bed fashions, fresh cut flowers, crafting trims, tassel fringes, braids, cords, beaded trims, kitchen and bath cabinetry.

kiWW® maintains offices and design studios in Los Angeles, Rancho Mirage, CA, Santa Barbara, CA, Hawaii and Israel. Additional information is available at http://www.kathyireland.com/ .

MarketWatch

June 7, 2010
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LaJobi Inc., a designer, manufacturer and distributor of leading brands of infant and juvenile furniture, is excited to announce a multi-year agreement with kathy ireland Worldwide®, the design and marketing company founded by CEO and Chief Designer Kathy Ireland. LaJobi is the exclusive, nursery furniture licensing partner for kathy ireland Home®. LaJobi and kathy ireland Home®, together will introduce a line of wood nursery furniture, glider chairs, ottomans and crib mattresses. Cribs in the collection will be Lifestyle® cribs which convert from crib to toddler bed, day bed, or a full size bed offering multiple uses from infancy to adulthood and allowing the furniture to grow with the child.

"We are extremely pleased to team with Kathy to produce a line of nursery furniture to suit the lives of families and especially busy and discerning moms," said Barbara Rogers, Director of Marketing and Product Development at LaJobi Inc. "Kathy is one of the most influential voices when it comes to home style and here at LaJobi we are known for staying on trend with style and innovation and the mission of kathy ireland Worldwide® is a great match."

"Partnering with the great team at LaJobi Inc. is a dream come true. Our discussions have taken place for a great deal of time as we've learned wonderful things about these extraordinary leaders in the category of nursery furniture. We are very proud to bring our vision of nursery furniture to life with LaJobi It is our belief that these products will bring great excitement, fashion, quality, value and safety™ to our retail partners, partners and customers," said Kathy.

The lines will be launching this fall.

The Street

LaJobi Inc. Partners With Kathy Ireland Worldwide
June 7, 2010
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LaJobi Inc., a designer, manufacturer and distributor of leading brands of infant and juvenile furniture, is excited to announce a multi-year agreement with kathy ireland Worldwide®, the design and marketing company founded by CEO and Chief Designer Kathy Ireland. LaJobi is the exclusive, nursery furniture licensing partner for kathy ireland Home®.

LaJobi and kathy ireland Home®, together will introduce a line of wood nursery furniture, glider chairs, ottomans and crib mattresses. Cribs in the collection will be Lifestyle® cribs which convert from crib to toddler bed, day bed, or a full size bed offering multiple uses from infancy to adulthood and allowing the furniture to grow with the child.

"We are extremely pleased to team with Kathy to produce a line of nursery furniture to suit the lives of families and especially busy and discerning moms," said Barbara Rogers, Director of Marketing and Product Development at LaJobi Inc. "Kathy is one of the most influential voices when it comes to home style and here at LaJobi we are known for staying on trend with style and innovation and the mission of kathy ireland Worldwide® is a great match."

"Partnering with the great team at LaJobi Inc. is a dream come true. Our discussions have taken place for a great deal of time as we've learned wonderful things about these extraordinary leaders in the category of nursery furniture. We are very proud to bring our vision of nursery furniture to life with LaJobi It is our belief that these products will bring great excitement, fashion, quality, value and safety™ to our retail partners, partners and customers," said Kathy.

The lines will be launching this fall.

Bloomburg Businessweek

LaJobi, Inc. Partners with Kathy Ireland Worldwide
June 7, 2010
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LaJobi, Inc. announced a multi-year agreement with Kathy Ireland Worldwide, LLC. LaJobi and kathy ireland Home(R), together will introduce a line of wood nursery furniture, glider chairs, ottomans and crib mattresses. Cribs in the collection will be Lifestyle(R) cribs which convert from crib to toddler bed, day bed, or a full size bed offering multiple uses from infancy to adulthood and allowing the furniture to grow with the child.

All Reviews

Bonavita's Liberty Collection's Timeless Beauty Grows with Your Child

May 20, 2010

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LaJobi Inc., a designer, manufacturer and distributor of leading brands of juvenile furniture, today announced the launch of a new collection of nursery furniture. The Liberty Collection represents classic, traditional beauty, and features touches such as rope molding and decorative appliqués. Reminiscent of a valued heirloom, the collection’s brass footholds combine with a graceful and simple design for a timeless style that will transcend the generations.

“The Liberty Collection has arrived just in time, as the trend in traditional furniture has strengthened over the past year,” said Barbara Rogers, director of marketing and product development at LaJobi Inc. “This collection fulfills a market need for exquisitely designed furniture that withstands the test of time and looks beautiful in both a baby’s nursery and adult bedroom.”

The Liberty Collection features five pieces, including the Lifestyle Crib®, 5-drawer dresser, double dresser and hutch, and nightstand. The Lifestyle Crib®, which is JPMA, ASTM and CPSC safety certified, is versatile easily converts from a crib to a toddler or day bed, so it continues to grow with your family. With the addition of full size bed rails (purchased separately), it converts to a full size bed with a headboard and footboard. The crib requires assembly, and comes with a ten year limited warranty. (Mattress and guardrail sold separately).

The Style Network

Clean House: Search for the Messiest Home in the Country- Brooks Family

April 28, 2010

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Clean House Resources

The Style Network's Clean House team doesn't work its magic alone. The following resources help Niecy & Co. take cluttered homes from foolish to fabulous.

Baby and Juvenile

LaJobi

Babble

Babble's Best Crib Mattresses
April 8, 2010
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Babble Best: Crib Mattresses

Buying a crib mattress is usually a last-minute afterthought. Let’s be honest, it’s not as glamorous as the crib’s design or as high profile as the car seat – but shouldn’t it be? Crib mattresses are an investment in your child’s health and development, especially considering your baby will be on it for up to 70 percent of his or her first four years. And to top it off, some of those hand-me-down mattresses might not be safe.

Many longstanding baby products have been rethought and redesigned because they contain chemicals (BPA, PVC, phthalates, etc.) that are now considered dangerous. As of February 10, 2009, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CSPIA) banned certain varieties of phthalates from crib mattresses (most notably found in standard vinyl coverings) after evidence linked them to endocrine system problems and possibly cancer. And the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reported that phthalates could cause more damage to babies than adults because their bodies are still developing.

The following mattresses all adhere to the government’s new standards, and most go above and beyond, eliminating vinyl coverings altogether. Keep in mind that some of these substitutions require spray treatments to keep them wet and stain-resistant, and other mattresses require a mattress pad to keep odor, dust mites and bacteria from creeping in over time. Use your discretion as to how “natural” you’re comfortable with, but have peace of mind that the mattresses in this guide (including the runners up!) are safe choices for your little one. Some might have a higher price tag than the norm, but most have been modified with organic and/or naturally derived products so both you and your baby can sleep better at night.

Babble Best Picks: Crib Mattresses

Best Value: Serta Tranquility Eco-Firm Mattress

Looking for a safer alternative without depleting your funds? It doesn’t have to be all or nothing when it comes to mattress materials, and this one is a fantastic value for a convertible, eco-friendly mattress from a reputable brand. Of course it meets all government standards for fire-resistance and phthalates, and the added organic cotton layers provide a safe, comfortable and natural element. You also get longevity from this durable, sufficiently firm innerspring that flips from infant to toddler; and low maintenance with the easy-to-clean laminated cover and cloth binding that provides anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic protection.

Gloucester County Times

Military families aided with baby goods

March 19, 2010

MANTUA TWP. Most moms count on the loving support of family members and the generosity of a baby shower to help them welcome a new little one into the world.

But at eight-months pregnant and living on McGuire Air Force Base for the past seven months, Staff Sgt. April Halloway said she doesn't have that opportunity this time around.

Halloway, who is a month away from delivering her third child, said she was "like a kid in a candy store" Thursday morning when she and her husband came to a Gloucester County College building on Blackwood-Barnsboro Road to pick up a brand new crib, changing table and bedding for their new addition.

"We think this is great," Halloway said as she carried the bedding out to her husband who was waiting in their car.

The couple, and many other military couples, families, and wives whose husbands are still serving abroad, traveled to Mantua Township Thursday morning to pick up the donations.

The support was organized by Operation Homefront, which collaborated with LaJobi Inc, of Cranbury, and CoCaLo, of California Êtwo companies who donated the furniture and bedding.

There were 200 cribs, 200 changing tables, and bedding for all of it, stacked up in the empty garage space at the former Gloucester County parks and recreation building.

Men and women in fatigues, and moms holding baby carriers and toddlers hands, worked steadily to move the furniture into vehicles.

It's eased the burden for the LaRaia family, of Mount Holly. Kelly LaRaia said her husband Thomas is serving in Iraq with the 87th civil engineering squadron and won't be home until May. They have two daughters, two-year-old Aurora, and seven-month-old Aine. LaRaia was picking up a crib and table for the baby, and one for another military family who just had a baby the night before.

"It's 24 hours a day, every day, taking care of two kids by myself," LaRaia said of the struggle being on her own while Thomas is abroad.

Tracy Handschuh, chapter president of Operation Homefront New York/New Jersey, said the organization is happy to help out, especially knowing that some 3,000 veterans returned in the spring.

"It's so exciting to see all these new moms to be," Handschuh said as she watched the families load up their cars. For many of them, the fathers are away, and even when they return, they have financial issues to worry about, not to mention adjusting to civilian life.

"This is one less thing they have to worry about," she said.

Chic & Cheap Nursery

Design Ideas for a Neutral Baby Room
March 19, 2010
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Megan Schwartz, resident blogger at Hybrid Mom, is getting ready for baby #3 and accepted my offer to help her design her nursery. With 2 young girls, ages 2 and 4, and a baby on the way, we are tying to keep the budget as low as possible. But Megan and her new baby need a peaceful sanctuary where they can bond and I am going to help them put it together for under $1,000!

1- The entire nursery theme was based on this lovely crib set that Megan fell in love with. It’s the Little Tree 4 Piece Baby Crib Bedding Set by Migi, available from Amazon.com for $159.99 + free shipping. Matching Migi Little Tree Mobile and MiGi Little Tree Valance also available.

2- This set is an incredible deal! You can get the Nursery 101 by La Jobi 3 Piece Nursery Set, which includes Deluxe Convertible Crib, Changing Table and Dresser in Classic White, for $379.00.

3- Kiwi Squeeze from Behr Paint. This calming color will work beautifully with the crib bedding.

4- Vinyl wall decals are an excellent option for creating an inexpensive mural in you nursery. I recommended this Childrens Tree with Flower Blossoms and Owl Vinyl Wall Decal from a seller on Etsy for $70.00.

5- The Boliden Chair & Foot Stool from IKEA is a stylish alternative to a traditional rocking chair and gives this nursery a contemporary touch. Available for $99.00

6- When you find yourself sitting in your rocker with a sleeping baby in your arms and no place to put the empty bottle or book you have in your hand, you will come to realize what I discovered when I found myself in that exact position: A side table is so convenient. The Frosta Stool from IKEA is only $12.99 and makes the perfect side table for the Boliden Chair & Foor Stool.

7- A small lamp comes in handy when you need to change diapers in the middle of the night but don’t want to upset your baby with a bright light. I recommended the ALÄNG Table lamp from IKEA, available for $29.99. It’s chic, cheap and functional (I have the AL ÄNG Floor Lamp in my living room).

The grand total of this Chic & Cheap Nursery (excluding cost of paint and painting materials) is $750.97!

I can’t wait to see what this nursery will look like once it comes together.

NJ.com

Military families pick up donated cribs, changing tables thanks to Operation Homefront
March 18, 2010
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MANTUA TWP. — The khaki fatigues didn’t do much to hide Staff Sgt. Apil Halloway’s pregnant belly Thursday morning as she and her husband came to pick up a new crib, changing table and bedding for their third child.

The baby’s due in just about one month and Halloway, who’s stationed at McGuire Airforce Base, admits she isn’t totally prepared.

Luckily, Operation Homefront was standing by, giving out more than 200 cribs, 200 changing tables and bedding for both to dozens of military families on Thursday. The furniture was donated by LaJobi Inc, of Cranbury, and CoCaLo, of California. The pick-up was at the Gloucester County College building on Blackwood-Barnsboro Road, which used to be a county parks and recreation building.

“The economy has hit military families just like the rest of our country,” said Tracy Handschuh, chapter president of Operation Homefront New York/New Jersey. “Nationwide, Operation Homefront saw a 179 percent increase from 2008 to 2009 in requests for food assistance, so we know our military families are struggling to meet the most basic of needs.”

Providing furniture for the families gives them one less thing to worry about, Handschuh said.

Best Changing Tables

Graco Lauren Dressing Table Espresso Review
March 10, 2010
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My daughter is now 7 months old and this is the changing table we have been using since her birth. We chose this changing table because it came is espresso (to match her crib) and it was relatively inexpensive.

The height is perfect for both my husband and I, I am 5′5″ and he is 5′11″ This table is on rollers which was really nice, we started off with it in the bedroom and then after a few weeks just wheeled it into the nursery when we were ready to put her in her crib for the night. There is plenty of shelf room, I have three wicker baskets with socks and shoes stored on them, plus extra diapering supplies.

For the price I am really happy with this changing table. I don’t feel I would have benefited anymore from spending 0 on a “fancy” one. It doesn’t look cheap compared to the rest of her furniture, and serves it purpose so I give it 5 stars!

Graco Lauren Dressing Table Espresso Feature

• Made under license by LaJobi Industries
• JPMA, ASTM and CPSC safety certified
• Features easily accessible open design with abundant storage space
• Changing area equipped with built in safety strap for added security
• Includes four sturdy rollers (two locking) for ease of mobility

Graco Lauren Dressing Table Espresso Overview

The Graco Lauren Dressing Table provides a safe and secure table to change your infant. It comes with straps to secure the changing pad to the structure. It has ample storage space on the two shelves which makes all of the products needed to change your infant readily available.

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Nursery 101 Baby Furniture Combines Quality and Affordability
February 3, 2010
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LaJobi, Inc. has introduced the Nursery 101 line of children’s furniture. Nursery 101 currently offers three transitional, ready-to-assemble product lines, designed to grow with your baby into the teenage years.

Baby’s Room Basics Collection
The Baby’s Room Basics Collection, available in a choice of Classic Cherry, Dark Walnut and Classic White finishes, includes a crib and dressing table. The crib converts from infant crib to toddler bed to daybed.

Baby’s Room Deluxe Collection
Also available in Classic Cherry, Dark Walnut, and Classic White, the Deluxe collection adds a four-drawer dresser to the set, making the Deluxe collection everything you need for your child’s room. The crib also converts into a toddler bed and, later, a stylish daybed.

Morgan Crib and Combo Changer
The innovative Morgan Crib and Combo Changer is a combination crib and dressing table which also converts to a bookshelf. The Morgan crib converts into a toddler bed, daybed and, finally, a full-size bed. This collection is available in Classic Cherry and Classic White.

Nursery 101 cribs are “Classic” cribs, which feature no moving parts and have a 3-height mattress platform that adjusts as baby grows. They are JPMA, ASTM and CPSC safety certified.

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Baby Crib and Nursery Furniture Buyer’s Guide
January 31, 2010
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The baby crib and nursery furniture is certainly one of the most exciting purchases you will make for your new baby. Your baby will have their furniture for most of their childhood, so you want to select the best crib and furniture set your budget can afford.

Of course, a crib’s safety is the number one consideration when you’re making a purchase – especially in light of the massive crib recalls that have been making news lately.

Crib Safety
When shopping for a new crib, look for one that meets or exceeds JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturing Association) standards and is JPMA-certified. The JPMA has certified more than 2,000 products in 17 different categories.

Safe baby cribs meet the following criteria:

• Crib slats or spindles should be no more than 2 3/8” apart. (You should not be able to fit a soda can between the slats). Spindles or slats should not be loose or missing.

• Hardware is sturdy, not bent or rusted.

• The crib mattress should fit snugly, with no more than one inch between the edge of the mattress and the side of the crib.

• No “cutout” areas on the headboard or footboard, where an infant’s head may get trapped.

• No splinters or rough edges.

• Crib should not have corner posts taller than 1/16 of an inch, as a baby’s clothes can get caught on these posts, posing a strangulation hazard.

The Consumer Products Safety Commission recommends that parents should not use secondhand cribs manufactured prior to 1978. The CPSC safety standards for cribs changed in1974, while standards for lead paint use changed in 1978. You can find out more about secondhand crib safety here.

Type of Crib
Most people decorate their baby’s nursery in a style that matches the rest of their house, whether that is modern/contemporary, traditional, shabby chic, French Colonial, etc. Once you decide on a style, you can select from many different crib designs.

Some popular styles of cribs include:

• Jenny Lind

• Sleigh

• Round

• Flat slats

• Canopy crib (Posts should be over 16” high).

Convertible Crib
Another factor to consider is convertibility: Do you want a crib that will turn into a toddler bed and, later, a day bed or full-size bed for your child? Or do you plan to use the crib for a second child and buy a new toddler bed and, finally, a twin or loft bed? Convertible cribs cost a bit more, so if you plan to use the crib only as a baby crib, it makes sense to buy one that doesn’t convert.

Additionally, some people say that less expensive convertible cribs, even converted into full-size beds or day beds, still look like cribs. For this reason, if you can’t afford a higher-end convertible crib, you may decide against buying convertible at all.

A Word on Dropside Cribs
Dropside cribs – cribs which have sides that drop down for easy access to baby – have been cited as safety hazards lately, following the recall of two different popular brands from two manufacturers.
Toys R Us has stopped selling drop-side cribs in Suffolk County, New York. The CPSC is calling for a nationwide ban on drop-side cribs. For that reason, we cannot, in good conscience, recommend drop-side cribs as a buying option.

Bonavita Hudson Classic baby crib

Finish/Color
When you pick a finish for your wood crib, keep in mind your nursery’s décor. Conventional wisdom says not to use darker woods in small spaces, but today’s designers say this is no longer true. You can go with a chocolate, espresso, or classic cherry finish in a small nursery, providing you use light, bright colors on walls and carpeting to open the space.

Matching Pieces
What nursery pieces will you want in addition to a baby crib? Barbara Rogers of LaJobi, manufacturer of brands such as Nursery 101, Graco, Bonavita, Babi Italia, Europa Baby and ISSI, says, “The three main pieces of furniture you need are a crib, a place to change the baby, and a place to store the baby’s clothes.”

Do you like the looks of the matching dresser and changing table? Does the product line come with a variety of options? Does the set come with a matching nightstand, chest of drawers or armoire, so the furniture really will grow with your child?

Francais Lifetyle Collection from Bonavita

Measurements
Will the crib, plus changing table and dresser or armoire, fit well in the nursery? Measure before you buy. Don’t squeeze more into a small space than you really need. Many dressers can double as changing tables. You can also get additional storage space with a trundle drawer under the crib.

A rocking chair is a nice addition to a nursery – if it fits. If not, consider putting a rocker/glider in your own bedroom or in a den or living room.

Price
Since baby cribs can range in price from $100 to thousands, it’s important to decide how much you want to spend. Price is not necessarily an indicator of quality or safety. For instance, Rogers of LaJobi says, “All our cribs, from the less expensive Nursery 101 line to La BonaVita models, exceed JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturing Association Standards.) You can get perfectly safe, well-made cribs for $200 or less.

So what’s the difference between less expensive and more expensive baby cribs?

• Less expensive cribs usually require assembly.

• Less expensive cribs may have fewer options for different finishes and styles.

• Less expensive cribs may have fewer choices for matching furniture pieces.

• The coordinating furniture for more expensive cribs may look more like “adult” furniture, and will last into your child’s teen years – or beyond.

• The detail work on more expensive cribs may be nicer.

• More expensive cribs may be manufactured from solid wood and be sturdier.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Crib

• What is the décor of your home?

• What colors will you decorate your nursery?

• Do you want a convertible crib or do you plan to use the crib for a second baby?

• What other furniture pieces do you need for the nursery?

• Would you like a trundle drawer beneath the crib for additional storage?

• What kind of wood or materials is the crib made of? Is it a less expensive, ready-to-assemble crib, which may use pressboard instead of solid wood? If it’s solid, what kind of wood is it?

• How many height adjustment levels does the crib have? Some cribs allow three different height adjustments for the mattress – a higher, “bassinet height” for infants who can’t yet roll over, a mid-height for babies who can roll over but not yet stand, and the lowest height, for toddlers who can stand (and climb!)

• How sturdy is the crib? Does it pass the “shake test” in the store? Denise and Alan Fields, authors of the book Baby Bargains, share a tip in the 8th edition of their book. Sometimes, retailers will actually leave screws loose in the less expensive crib and changing table models, so they appear to be less sturdy than their pricier counterparts.

When you’re looking at cribs in a retail store, it pays to check the hardware. You might even bring a small Phillips head screwdriver and tighten loose screws, that way you can get a fair comparison between cribs of different price points.

• What is the company’s reputation and recall history? Has the crib you are looking at ever been recalled? What was the problem and how was it fixed?

Special thanks to Barbara Rogers from La Jobi for the insightful information she provided for this article.

Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association

JPMA
January 29, 2010


All of our cribs are JPMA certified.

Celebrity Outreach for 2009

LaJobi cribs chosen by A-list celebrities during 2009 included:

Chyler Leigh of “Grey’s Anatomy”

Marcy Rylan of “Guiding Light”

LAJOBI AWARDS & ACCOLADES

April, 2009 - Babi Italia’s Eastside Lifestyle™ Crib and Combo by LaJobi, Inc. won the Buzzillions® Reviewers’ Choice™ Award for Best Overall Lifestyle Crib & Combo for First Time Parents - Babi Italia’s Pinehurst Lifestyle™ Crib Also Named Finalist

January 2009 - Metroplex Baby MetroMoms Presents: The Best & Hottest Products From Pregnancy To Preschool™ -- The Metro Lifestyle Crib is named “Best Convertible Crib”

September, 2009 – LaJobi’s Lifestyle® cribs are named Consumer’s Digest Best Buy (premiere selection) for 2009, and LaJobi’s Classic cribs named Best Buy for the mid-range selection for 2009.

May, 2009 – LaJobi’s Dakota crib by Graco wins iParenting Media 2009 “Outstanding Product of the Year”Award

November, 2009 : Babi Italia by LaJobi, Inc. Wins the Buzzillions® Reviewers’ Choice™ “Most For Your Money” Award.

September 2008 – People Magazine’s Celebrity Baby Blog votes Bonavita’s METRO crib “Best Convertible Crib”.

Style Network

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Baby & Kids Magazine

LaJobi Announces Company Promotions

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Robert J. Rusnack and Brian Hultz were promoted from within juvenile furniture creator LaJobi Inc., to CFO and director of sales and customer service, respectively.

Rusnack came to LaJobi in 2005 with more than 18 years of diversified financial experience. He previously served as controller for LaJobi, where he was responsible for all accounting, budgeting and finance operations. In his new role, Rusnack will continue to work with the company's parent organization in implementing financial strategies for LaJobi's five brands of juvenile furniture and related accessories, which include Bonavita, Babi Italia, Europa Baby, Graco and Nursery 101, as well as Serta crib mattresses.

Hultz joined LaJobi in 2008 with an 18-year record of driving sales in the juvenile furniture industry. Prior to his promotion, he served as national sales manager for LaJobi, where he was responsible for territory sales growth of 18 percent during his tenure. He also managed 10 independent sales representatives throughout the U.S., the customer service department, and was responsible for distributors in Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean. In his new role, Hultz will be responsible for driving all aspects of sales and customer service programs.

Kids Today

LaJobi Promotes Robert Rusnack, Brian Hultz
December 15, 2009
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Increased growth led to Hultz's new position

CRANBURY, N.J. – Juvenile furniture designer, manufacturer and distributor, LaJobi, Inc. has promoted Robert J. Rusnack to chief financial officer and Brian Hultz to director of sales and customer service, a new role for Hultz and for the company. They both report to Larry Bovina, president.

Rusnack came to LaJobi in 2005 with more than 18 years of diversified financial experience. He previously served as controller for LaJobi, where he was responsible for all accounting, budgeting and finance operations. In his new role, Rusnack will continue to work with the companies’ parent organization in implementing financial strategies for LaJobi’s five brands of juvenile furniture and related accessories, which include Bonavita, Babi Italia, Europa Baby, Graco and Nursery 101, as well as Serta crib mattresses.

“It is with great pleasure to announce the promotion of Robert J. Rusnack to chief financial officer for LaJobi,” said Bovina. “Robert has been instrumental in helping our company to grow and to make our transition into the Kid Brands, Inc. family very smooth. We are confident that in his new role he will ensure continued growth and profitability for the company.”

From 2000 to 2005, Rusnack served as controller and vice president of finance for Langeveld Bulb Company, one of the world’s leading flower bulb marketers based in Holland. During his tenure, Rusnack was responsible for $80 million in revenue and managing all accounting, budgeting and finance operations, as well as re-structuring company wide corporate insurance programs.

From 1986 to 2000, Rusnack held a range of high-level finance roles with companies such as IKON Office Solutions, a provider of innovative document management systems and services; American Signature commercial printing company; and Airshield International Composites & Subsidiaries.

Hultz started with LaJobi in 2008 with an 18-year proven track record of driving sales in the juvenile furniture industry.

He previously served as national sales manager for LaJobi, where he was responsible for territory sales growth of 18% during his tenure. He also managed 10 independent sales representatives throughout the United States, the customer service department, and was responsible for distributors in Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean.

In his new role, Hultz is responsible for driving all aspects of sales and customer service programs for their five brands of juvenile furniture and related accessories.

“We are very pleased to announce this well-deserved promotion. During his time with LaJobi, Hultz has shown a keen awareness of the industry and its environment,” said Bivona. “With the tremendous growth we’ve experienced over the past three years, now is the time to have a focused leader in sales. We are confident that Brian Hultz will continue to deliver while leading our sales and customer service initiatives moving forward.”

From 2003 to 2008, Hultz served as the director of sales and as the national sales manager of Simplicity, Inc, where he was responsible for sales growth from $12 million to $87 million. Hultz also served various roles at Graco Children’s Products, Inc., from 1990 to 2003, where as national sales manager he was responsible for $17 million in sales.

All Reviews

Bonavita's Seaside Collection Baby Crib
November 19, 2009
View Article by Dawn Allcot

Perfect for any nursery décor, the new Seaside Lifestyle crib from Bonavita exudes casual elegance. With honest lines and relaxed vintage appeal, the crib serves as the centerpiece to your new baby’s sanctuary.

Available in Dark Walnut or Classic White finish – suitable for a baby boy or baby girl – the Seaside Lifestyle crib comes with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty. The crib features a dual leg design for easy conversion from a crib to a toddler bed, day bed or even a full-size bed. The quality of this convertible crib ensures it will last as your child grows.

Bonavita’s Seaside collection also offers a dresser, chest and nightstand, with stylish natural accent baskets to keep necessities close at hand.

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Featured In Consumer Reports
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The Lauren Convertible 3250282 is part of the crib test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, crib models like the Lauren Convertible 3250282 are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.

Safety:

Safety score incorporates compliance with federal and voluntary safety standards, drop side saftety (where applicable) and mattress support security. CR's tests do not address the durability issues associated with recent recalls that could impact safety.

Construction:

Construction incorporates drop side hardware, general construction quality (including tpes of hardware used, e.g. the use of allen bolts, barrel nuts and the like; use of screw insert sleeves rather than placing screws directly into wood, etc.), sample and design defects, if any, and ease of assembly (which includes ease of following instructions for assembly). After testing, all cribs were examined for degraded operation (for example, the drop side movement had become stiff or got stuck), wobbliness or other wear.

Ease of use:

Ease of use incorporates drop side operation (where applicable), ease of moving the crib, and ease of adjusting the mattress support.

BabiesToday

The Right Baby Gear For Baby's Safety
Monday, October 26, 2009
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"Cribs, usually used cribs, are the leading cause of death to infants out of all the nursery products," says Nychelle Fleming, a spokesperson for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). "We see on average about 32 deaths annually."

The Right Baby Gear for Baby's Safety"If you're buying a new crib in the U.S., you can feel pretty good that it's a safe crib," says Leah Severson, author of Bargain Buys for Baby's First Year (Griffin, 2000) and mother of two. "The government has certain safety standards that all cribs must meet."

The Dakota Crib by Graco is the first Graco crib to be eco-friendly. It is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). All wooden components are sustainable woods from responsibly managed forests and are certified to the standards of the FSC by the Rainforest Alliance SmartWood Program. All finishes are water-based and packaging is from recycled or recyclable materials. The crib also features no moving parts and has a three-position mattress platform that adjusts easily as Baby grows, converting easily to a toddler and day bed. The crib is JPMA, ASTM and CPSC safety certified.

PregnancyToday

The Dakota Classic Crib by Graco
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
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The Dakota Classic Crib is the first dakota classic crib by gracoGraco crib to be eco-friendly. It's certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). All wooden components are sustainable woods from responsibly managed forests and are certified to the standards of the FSC by the Rainforest Alliance SmartWood Program. All finishes are water-based and packaging is from recycled or recyclable materials. This crib features no moving parts and has a 3-position mattress platform that adjusts easily as Baby grows, converting easily to a toddler and day bed.

Young House Love

Fab Freebie: Crib Your Enthousiasm
Monday, October 19, 2009
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In honor of our new nephew’s arrival this week (he’s scheduled to come via C-section on Wednesday!) we’ve got the mother of all baby-themed giveaways courtesy of LaJobi Industries. They’re the makers of stylish baby and youth furniture and this week they’re giving away an eco-friendly crib and crib mattress to one lucky parent (or parent-to-be).

The Dakota crib by Graco is their first environmentally friendly crib – it’s made from sustainable woods, the dark walnut finish is water based and all the packaging comes from recycled materials. Plus, it looks pretty darn good. You can read all the nitty-gritty details about it on Walmart.com, since they’re the exclusive retailer of the Dakota line (which also includes a changing table).

But an eco-friendly crib wouldn’t be complete without an eco-friendly mattress to pair it with. So LaJobi is throwing in a Serta Nightstar Eco Firm mattress, which is made from organic cotton layers. Together that’s a $330 package that should help both you and your baby sleep better!

• PRIZE: LaJobi’s Eco-Friendly Dakota Classic Crib by Graco and Serta Nighstar Eco Firm Crib & Toddler Mattress
• TO ENTER: Comment on this post with the words “CRIB ME” and…
• BONUS QUESTION: …tell us what your favorite bedtime story is. Is it a classic like “Goodnight Moon”- or something more progressive like “Captain Underpants?”
• GIVEAWAY CLOSES: Wednesday, October 21st at 8pm EST
• NUMBER OF WINNERS: One
• PRIZE SHIPS: USA only
• USUAL STUFF: One entry per e-mail address is permitted. The winner will be selected using random.org and announced on Thursday. Good luck!

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Kids Today

LaJobi moves to larger space
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
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LIVE FROM ABC – LaJobi has moved into a larger booth here to spotlight its growing collections.

“We have so much to offer,” said Barbara Rogers, director of marketing and product development. “We have so many case pieces, we went from a 3,000- to 4,500-sq.-ft. booth.”

Debuting here are the Graco Avalon glider and ottoman and the Graco Charleston crib and dressing table. These two collections join others LaJobi has added this year.

Francais has a Lifestyle Crib in antique cream. Case goods are antique cream with a Charleston cherry top and include a five-drawer, small chest, double dresser and nightstand.

“Francais is inspired by an antique collection that looks like someone pulled it out of Grandma’s attic,” said Rogers. “The (case good) tops are distressed and knobs are acrylic.”

Seaside is a transitional, casual collection with baskets in the case pieces in place of the top two drawers. Available in dark walnut or classic white, the collection includes a Lifestyle Crib, five-drawer, double dresser and nightstand.

“People decorate their nursery like they decorate the rest of their house,” said Rogers.

The Shelby Collection features an island crib.

“You can use it in an apartment or smaller home, and it can be put in the middle of the room,” said Rogers. “It has stationary sides and is in compliance with safety regulations, and the rails are shorter for a petite person.”

Nursery 101 is a new brand that launched in June, offering an opening price point.

“It’s targeted to people above the $25k income,” said Rogers. It came about based on research from Mintel, which showed population shifts and the Hispanic market with the fastest growth in birth rates.

“They want beautiful furniture that is quality, but not a high price point,” she said. A package called Baby Room Basics retails at $179 for a crib and changer. Nursery 101 also includes a four-drawer dresser and two other case goods.

ABC Kids Expo - Show Daily

September 13, 2009

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September 2009