Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide infants with a dedicated sleep space to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular routine of sleeping. Cribs also offer more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you opt for a modern style or a more traditional design ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure it meets the highest safety standards and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Consider other options to choose the perfect crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent your baby's security is of the utmost importance. You want your child to sleep peacefully in a safe environment, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are many things to consider, including slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's arms or legs aren't entangled. Also a mattress that is a firm and snug fit and no drop sides stable cribs with no wobbling parts and detailed instructions on assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, for example bumper pads or streamers, which could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Choose a crib that is painted with low-VOC paint, a safer alternative to glues and varnishes that emit harmful chemicals into the air. Also, consider a mattress constructed using non-toxic materials, such as organic cotton and foam.
Full Statement with no decorative embellishments or cutouts. They could cause injuries should your child pick them up, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Make sure the mattress cover fits tightly to the crib frame and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. You should also avoid putting pillows comforters, quilts pillows, sheepskins or similar stuffed toys in the crib since they could increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles are also a potential risk, since they could be tipped over onto the baby and cause suffocation. Ideally, you should avoid the use of mobiles completely and choose a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is more beneficial for your baby's health as well as let you monitor your child while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A safe place for your baby's sleep is among the most essential things you'll need. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your baby to rest, which will be particularly useful when you're busy with other household chores or activities.
You can find cribs at your local nursery or at the home goods store. These establishments must adhere to strict regulations set out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. recommended you read are the best place to start your search for a quality crib. You'll have to take into consideration several aspects prior to purchasing a crib.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and babies that last well beyond the initial months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features which allow you to transform the crib into an infant bed or a full-size bed. This will help you save money and extend its life.
Another advantage of cribs is their compact footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some cribs also have a changing station that can be helpful when you have a small space in your nursery.
They are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to carry around. They're an excellent choice for taking your baby on a trip or visiting friends and family, as they can be easily packed and taken away. The light construction may make for a less sturdy crib than traditional models. This could be a concern to some parents.
3. Style
Look for a crib with an original design if you want it to stand out. You can find a crib with sleek, minimalist style or made of something like bamboo or glass. It may also have clear sides to allow for easy viewing. These are often more expensive than their solid wood counterparts, but they can add an attractive focal point to any nursery.
cot sets offer a more traditional look with graceful curves and moldings, reminiscent of antique furniture. They can be very extravagant, and are typically handmade with beautiful details. They are a great option when you're looking for an infant crib that will become an heirloom for your family over time. They can also be paired with any design.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian-style crib with smooth straight lines and a light, bare wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are perfect for an modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave them unfinished to match your decor.
Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table could make it easier to change your baby, particularly when they're younger and struggle to sit up on their own. They typically have drawers beneath to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs are bent or have designs on the side that can be used to create an effect of canopy. They can add a touch of elegant to any nursery and help keep your baby comfy and cool while they sleep. However, be sure that the fabric you choose is not too long or that it is securely fixed to the crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler's bed a daybed, or a full-size bed is a great option for any family. This feature can save you money purchasing four separate beds during your child's development and will also free up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs are equipped with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it simple to use them when required.
When looking for a brand crib that you want to buy, keep in mind that a lot of cribs come with additional features such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This will allow you to modify the appearance and function of your crib, and can be especially useful in the case of the smallest or most limited storage space in your nursery. Some cribs even have wheels that can be incredibly helpful if you need to move the bed for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are generally constructed with sturdy non-toxic, non-toxic materials which are safe for your baby. They also meet the strict safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. Many cribs have a classic or contemporary design that can be adapted to different styles of nursery décor. Some cribs are constructed from wood, while others are fabricated out of steel or painted. Certain brands are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful chemicals are not released into the surrounding environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your nursery will take some thought and research however, it's an important decision that will last for years to come. Consider your options and compare prices, delivery times, and other aspects before making a decision.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in your baby's nursery, and it can have a significant impact on the overall design and feel of the room. It is crucial to select a crib that matches your style or goes well with your room decor. This will make a huge difference in the way you feel about your nursery.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to transform into toddler beds or daybeds increase their value as your child grows, providing you long-term value. They are also less costly than a full-size bed and can be lent or sold to a relative after your child is no longer in need of.
Convertible cribs are also easily maintained since the majority of parts can be taken off and cleaned, and some come with a conversion set that makes it easy to transform them into the perfect size bed for your baby. Wood cribs are especially robust and can withstand the stress of regular use, with some last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options and are therefore more maneuverable when changing sheets or altering the mattress height. However, they can get worn out faster and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also referred to as dual-firm or two-stage mattresses are designed to be used by babies and toddlers. One side is softer for the infants while the other is more rigid for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses, and are more comfortable for older children who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. They are usually cheaper than innerspring alternatives.