Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated baby's sleeping space to reduce the risk Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also offer more flexibility than other options like bassinets.
Whether you choose a contemporary design or a more traditional style ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure that it adheres to the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Also, consider other features to determine the perfect crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your child's safety is of paramount importance. You want your baby to sleep soundly in a safe environment that is free of dangers such as sharp edges or splinters. It's important to choose a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are many things to consider, including slat spacing that is no wider than 2 3/8 inch so your baby's legs and arms do not get caught. Also a mattress that is a firm, snug fit and no drop sides stable cribs with no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. You should also avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streams or pads, as they could cause strangulation for your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC paint, which is a safer alternative than traditional glues or varnishes which emit harmful chemicals. Find best crib newborn made of organic foam and cotton.
Lastly, choose a crib that is free of ornaments and cutouts that could pose injury risks in the event that your child is able to grab them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. Also, make sure that the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of your crib, and that there aren't gaps between the frame and the mattress. You should also avoid putting pillows, quilts, comforters and sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also be dangerous, as they can be pulled towards the baby, causing them to suffocate. It is recommended to choose an infant crib with a mesh structure that is breathable, instead of a mobile. This is healthier for the health of your baby and lets you supervise them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby's sleep is one of the most important things you will need. Cribs are a great place for your baby to rest, which will be particularly helpful when you're busy with other household chores or activities.
You can find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These types of establishments have to comply with strict regulations established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best place to start your search for a top quality crib. If you're planning to purchase a crib for your home, there are a few things to consider before making your purchase.
Cribs are an excellent choice for newborns, infants and toddlers, providing an incredibly comfortable bed that will last well beyond their first few years of life. A lot of cribs are convertible, allowing you to convert the crib into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. This will save you money and extend its life.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their compact footprint that makes them suitable for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models also come with a changing station that can be helpful in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer a similar level of convenience, as they're designed to be lightweight and easily foldable for transport. They are a great choice for traveling with your baby or visiting family and friends since they can be easily packed into a suitcase before you leave. However, the lightweight construction of travel cribs can also result in less robust construction than standard models which could be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has a unique design if you want it to stand out. You can find one that features sleek, minimalist designs or one made of a material such as glass or bamboo and has clear sides for easy visibility. They are generally more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however, they can be a beautiful centerpiece in any nursery.
Some cribs have traditional designs with elegant curves and molding, which is reminiscent of antique furniture. They can be extremely elaborate, and are usually made by hand with exquisite details. They are an excellent choice to consider if you're in search of an infant crib that will become a family heirloom over time. They can also be paired with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular style. It has straight, smooth lines and an ethereal, bare-wood look. This allows the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. These cribs are perfect for a modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave them unfinished to complement your decor.
They can also serve as a changing table, making it easier to change your child. This is particularly true for babies who are still young and have trouble sitting up. These models usually have drawers underneath to store wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs are bent or have designs on the sides that can be used to create an illusion of a canopy. These can bring a touch of class to any nursery and are a great way to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. Be sure to use fabric that is not too long and is firmly attached to your crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that transforms into a toddler bed, daybed and full-size beds is a great investment for any family. This feature will save you money from buying four separate beds throughout your child's growth and will also free up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs also come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them easy to set up and use when the time comes.
Another important thing to consider when you're looking for cribs is that a lot of models have additional features, such as drawers or adjustable mattress heights. This lets you modify the appearance and function of your crib. It can be especially useful if you're working with the smallest or most small amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs come with wheels that are extremely useful in case you need to move the bed for cleaning or for any other reason.
Convertible cribs are typically made of durable, non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have an elegant or contemporary design that can suit a wide range of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed of wood, whereas others can be made from stainless steel or painted metal. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
It will require some research and thought to choose the best convertible crib for you nursery. But, it's an investment that will last for years to come. Consider your options carefully and be sure to evaluate prices, delivery and the time of setup, as well as other factors to make the best decision for your family.
5. Value
The crib is a massive piece of furniture that will have a significant impact on the appearance and feel of the nursery of your baby. This is why choosing one that matches your preference in style or one that works 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.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds can be used as your child grows, providing you long-term value. They're also generally less costly than larger beds and can be sold or given to a family member when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain since the majority of the parts can be removed and cleaned and many have an conversion kit that allows you to convert them into the proper size bed for your child. Wood cribs are incredibly sturdy and can withstand demands of daily use, with some last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring alternatives which makes them more convenient to move around when changing sheets or adjusting mattress height. They can wear out faster and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual-firm or two-stage mattresses, are designed to be used by infants and toddlers. One side is gentler for infants, while the other side is firmer for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses, and are more comfortable for older infants who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. They're typically cheaper than innerspring mattresses.