Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated sleeping area for infants to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also encourages a consistent sleep routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, including bassinets.
Whether you choose a contemporary design or a more traditional design, make sure it's GREENGUARD Gold certified to ensure it meets the highest safety standards and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Be top ranked cribs of other aspects when selecting the crib that's right 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 an environment free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. Select a crib that is in compliance with Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
This includes slat spacing that is no wider than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's head, arms or legs from getting caught; an appropriate mattress that is firm and snug-fitting without drop sides; a stable crib with no wobbling parts and clear assembly instructions. Avoid using any bells or whistles such as bumper pads and streamers which could strangle your baby.
Look for cribs painted with low-VOC paint, which is a safer alternative in comparison to conventional glues or varnishes that release harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials such as organic foam and cotton.
Select a crib that does not have decorative ornaments or cutouts. They can cause injury when your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover fits tightly to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. Avoid putting pillows, blankets, sheepskins, or similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. These can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a danger, as they can be pulled towards the baby, causing them to choke. You should opt for a mesh crib mobile that is breathable instead of a mobile. This will be better for your baby's health and will allow you to keep an eye on your little one while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A safe place for your baby to rest is one of the most important things you'll need. Cribs are an excellent place for your baby's sleep particularly when you are working on other household chores.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or at a home goods store. These kinds of establishments must comply with strict regulations established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best place to begin your search for a quality crib. You'll need to take into consideration several aspects before purchasing the crib.
Cribs are a great option for newborns, infants and toddlers, offering an inviting sleeping space that will last for the first few years of life. Many cribs come with convertible features, allowing you to convert the crib into the size of a toddler bed or full-size bed. This can save you money on your purchase and prolong its lifespan.
The small size of cribs makes them perfect for small spaces like lofts or apartments. Some models also come with an area for changing which could be useful when you have a small space in your nursery.
They are also lightweight and foldable, making them simple to transport. This makes them a great option for traveling with your child or visiting friends and family because you can easily take the crib down in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the lightweight construction of travel cribs may cause less durable construction than standard cribs which could be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has a unique design if you want it to stand out. You may find one with sleek, minimalist designs or one that is constructed of a material like glass or bamboo and features clear sides for easy visibility. These are often more expensive than solid wood alternatives however they can be a beautiful accent to any nursery.
Other cribs have a more traditional design with graceful curves and moldings, as well as an appearance that reminds of heirloom pieces. They can be very extravagant, and are typically handcrafted with beautiful details. They are a great option when you are looking for a crib that can become a beloved piece of family furniture over time and work with any theme.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian-style crib with straight lines that are smooth and a light, naked wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are ideal for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to fit in with your decor.
Cribs that combine the function of a changing table can make it easier to change your baby, particularly when they're young and have trouble sitting up on their own. These cribs come with drawers to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs have curving sides or designs that can be used as an umbrella. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery and help keep your baby comfy and cool during their sleep. Be sure, however, that the fabric you choose isn't too long or that it's firmly fixed to the crib. This will prevent your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can convert into a toddler's bed, an adult daybed or a large bed is a great option for any family. This feature allows you to save money by not having to buy four beds as your child grows, and also frees up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them simple to put together and use at any time.
Another aspect to be aware of when shopping for cribs is that a lot of cribs come with additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This lets you customize the look and function of your crib, and can be especially useful in the case of only a tiny or limited storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels, which can be very helpful when you need to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are made from sturdy non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs also feature a contemporary or classic design that can suit a wide variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are crafted from wood and others are made from metal or painted steel. Some brands are committed environmental sustainability, and offer eco-friendly cribs that are made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins do not leach into the environment.
It will require some research and thought to select the ideal convertible crib for you nursery. However, it's one that will last for years to come. Be sure to consider your options carefully and make sure you compare prices, delivery and time to set up, among other things to make the best choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the largest piece of furniture in your baby's nursery, and it can have a significant impact on the overall appearance and feel of the room. This is why choosing one that is in line with your preferred style or fits well with the other decor elements in your room will make a big impact on how you feel about the nursery as you spend time there.
As your child grows older cribs that are designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds can be used for a long time, giving you the long-term benefits. They're also generally less costly than larger beds and can be sold or given to a friend when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs can also be easily maintained since the majority of parts can be removed, cleaned, and many have a conversion kit which makes it simple to convert them into the right size bed for your baby. Wood cribs are extremely durable and can withstand the stress of regular use, with some lasting through several children.
most recommended cribs are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and can be easier to maneuver when changing sheets or altering the mattress height. However, they may be more worn out and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning to toddlerhood, having a side that's softer for infants and a more firm side for toddlers. They are generally more secure than foam mattresses and may be more comfortable for older children who don't want the sagging feel of foam. They are also typically cheaper than innerspring alternatives.