Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide infants with a dedicated sleep space to lower the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular sleeping routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with modern or traditional style, be certain to confirm that it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and reduces exposures to toxic chemicals. Consider other features to find the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent your baby's safety is of paramount importance. You want your child to rest comfortably in a safe environment free of dangers, such as sharp edges or splinters. Select a crib that is in compliance with Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are a variety of things to look out for in a mattress, such as slat spacing which is not more than 2 3/8 inches to ensure your baby's arms or legs do not get caught. Also, a mattress with a firm and snug fit and no drop sides stable cribs without wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Beware of any bells or whistles such as bumper pads or streamers that can strangle your baby.
Look for a crib that is coated with low-VOC paints that is a safer choice to glues and varnishes that emit harmful chemicals into the air. Similarly, look for recommended cribs made using non-toxic materials, such as organic cotton and foam.
Pick a crib with no decorative ornaments or cutouts. They could cause injuries when your child grabs them or gets their fingers stuck in them. You should also check that the mattress cover is securely fitted to the crib frame, and that there aren't any gaps between the frame and the mattress. Avoid putting blankets, pillows or sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed animals in the crib. These could increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also be a risk, since they could be pushed down on the baby, causing suffocation. Ideally, you should avoid a mobile completely and opt for a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is better for your baby's health as well as let you monitor your baby while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A safe place for your baby to rest is one of the most important things you will need. Cribs are a wonderful place for your baby to rest particularly when you are engaged in other household chores.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or at a home goods store. These establishments must adhere to strict guidelines laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the best place to begin your search for a quality crib. You'll need to take into consideration several aspects prior to purchasing a crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and babies that last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that let you transform cribs into toddler beds or full size beds, which will reduce your costs and prolong the life of your crib purchase.
The small size of cribs makes them ideal for small spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some models come with an adjustable table, which can be useful if your nursery is small in size.
Travel cribs are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to transport. This makes them an excellent option when you're traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family since you can put the crib away in a few minutes before leaving. However, the light construction of travel cribs may lead to less sturdy construction than standard models and could pose a concern for some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with distinctive design if want it to stand out. There are cribs with sleek, minimalist style or made of materials like glass or bamboo. It could also have clear sides that allow for easy observation. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood versions however, they can make an appealing centerpiece to any nursery.
Other cribs offer a more traditional look with beautiful curves and molding, which is reminiscent of antique furniture. They can also be extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with stunning details. They are an excellent choice when you're looking for a crib that can become a family heirloom over time. They can also be paired with any design.
A Scandinavian crib is another popular style. It is characterized by straight, smooth lines and an ethereal, bare-wood look. This allows the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. These cribs are great for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave them unfinished to match your decor.
Cribs that can serve as a combination 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. These cribs come with drawers for storing wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as a canopy. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and help keep your baby comfy and cool while they sleep. But, make sure that the fabric you choose isn't too long, or is securely connected to the crib. This will ensure your child doesn't reach out to grasp the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can convert into a toddler's crib, a daybed, or a full-size bed can be incredibly useful for any family. This feature will help you save money by not purchasing four separate beds over your child's development and also save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs also come with conversion kits that store easily, making them easy to assemble and use at any time.
Another important thing to consider when you're looking for cribs is that a lot of cribs come with additional features, like adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This allows you to alter the look and functionality of your crib. It's especially beneficial if your nursery has limited storage space. Some cribs come with wheels that are extremely useful if you want to move the bed for cleaning or any other reason.
Convertible cribs are usually constructed using durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby and meet stringent safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. Many cribs have modern or classic designs that can fit into a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made from wood, while others may be made from stainless steel painted or metal. Some brands are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful chemicals are not absorbed into the environment.
Selecting the ideal convertible crib for your child will take some time and thought however, it's an important decision that will last for years to come. Consider your options and compare the prices as well as delivery times and other aspects before making a decision.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it can have a significant impact on the overall design and feel of the room. This is why choosing one that matches your preferred style or fits well with the rest of your room's decor will make a big impact on how you feel about the nursery when you are there.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to transform into daybeds for toddlers or toddlers increase their value as your child grows, giving you long-term value. They're also generally less expensive than full-size beds, and are able to be sold or given to a relative when your child no longer needs them.
most recommended cribs are also simple to maintain, since most of the parts can be cleaned and removed and the majority have a conversion kit that makes it easier to convert them into the proper size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand a lot of use and are robust. Some even last many children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options which makes them more convenient to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, they could wear out more quickly and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
top ranked cribs (also called two-stage or dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning of toddlerhood, with a side that's softer for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They are typically safer than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable for older babies who don't like the sagging sensation of foam. These mattresses are often more affordable than innerspring alternatives.