Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an area for sleeping that is specifically designed to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular routine of sleeping. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, like bassinets.
If you opt for a modern style or a more traditional design Make sure it's GREENGUARD Gold certified to ensure that it is in compliance with the highest safety standards and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Be aware of other aspects when selecting the crib that is right for your family.
1. Safety
As parents, the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your child to sleep at ease in a space free of dangers, like sharp edges or splinters. Select a crib that is in compliance with Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
These include slat spacing no wider than 2 3/8 inches, to avoid your baby's legs, arms, or head from being trapped and an appropriate mattress that is firm and snug-fitting without drop sides; a solid crib that has no wobbling parts and clear assembly instructions. Avoid using any bells or whistles like bumper pads and streamers that can strangle your baby.
Find a crib that is painted with low-VOC paints which is a safer alternative to glues and varnishes that release harmful chemicals into the air. Similarly, consider a mattress constructed of non-toxic materials such as cotton and organic foam.
Finally, pick a crib that is free of decorative ornaments and cutouts that could cause injury when your child grasps them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. Make sure the mattress cover fits tightly to the frame of the crib and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame. Avoid putting blankets, pillows or sheepskins, as well as similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. They can increase your baby’s risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also be a danger, as they could be pulled down on the baby and cause them to suffocate. It is recommended to avoid the use of mobiles completely and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is healthier for the health of your baby and lets you supervise them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most crucial things your baby needs is a secure place to sleep. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your little one to relax, which can be particularly helpful when you're busy tending to other household chores or activities.
You'll likely find cribs in your local nursery or home goods store. These types of establishments have to comply with strict regulations that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best place to start your search for a top quality crib. You'll have to take into consideration several aspects prior to purchasing a crib.
Cribs are a fantastic option for infants, newborns and toddlers, providing an incredibly comfortable bed 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 will save you money on your purchase and extend its life.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their small footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some models include an adjustable table, which can be useful if your nursery space is limited in space.
Travel cribs are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to move. This makes them a great choice when traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family, as you can easily pack up the crib within a matter of minutes prior to leaving. The crib's lightweight construction could make for a less sturdy crib than the standard ones. This might be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has an original design if you want it to stand out. You can find a crib with sleek, minimalist design or constructed from something like glass or bamboo. It may also have clear sides that allow for easy observation. These are often more expensive than their solid wood counterparts however, they can make a beautiful centerpiece to any nursery.
Other cribs feature a more traditional look with graceful curves and moldings, reminiscent of heirloom furniture. They can be very extravagant, and are typically made by hand with exquisite details. They are a great option if you're looking for a crib that can become an important family heirloom in the future. They can also go well with any design.
A Scandinavian crib is another popular style. It features smooth, straight lines with an ethereal, bare-wood look. This allows the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. They're great for any modern or contemporary nursery and you can paint them or leave them as is to match your decor.
These cribs can be used as a changing table, making it easier to change your baby. This is particularly true for babies who are still young and may have trouble sitting up. They typically have drawers beneath to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs are curved or have designs on the sides which can be used to create an illusion of a canopy. These can bring a touch of class to any nursery and are a fantastic option to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Make sure to choose a fabric that is not too long and is firmly attached to your crib. This will ensure your child isn't able to reach out and grab the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler bed, daybed or full-size bed is a fantastic investment for any family. This feature allows you to save money since you don't have to buy four separate beds as your child grows, and it also helps to save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it easy to use them when needed.
When looking for a brand new crib, keep in mind that most cribs have additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This lets you customize the look and functionality of your crib. This is particularly useful in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs have wheels, which can be extremely helpful if you want to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are made of durable 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 be adapted to a wide variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood, while others may be constructed from metal or painted stainless steel. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leach into the environment.
It takes some research and thought to select the ideal convertible crib for your nursery. But, it's one that will last for years. Consider your options and evaluate the prices, delivery times, and other aspects before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is a huge piece of furniture that can have a major impact on the look and feel of your baby's nursery. Because of that, choosing one that is in line with your preferred style or that will work well with the rest of your room decor can make a significant difference in how you feel about the nursery when you spend time there.
In the same way, cribs designed to be converted into daybeds or toddler beds can be used as your child grows, providing you long-term value. They are also less costly than a full-size bed and can be given or sold to a friend once your child no longer has need of.
Convertible cribs can also be easily maintained, as most parts can be removed, cleaned, and many have a conversion kit that allows you to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs can stand up to a lot of use and are sturdy. Some even last many children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives and can be easier to maneuver when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress's height. They are more likely to wear out and require replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Best cot for newborn (also called two-stage or dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning to toddlerhood, having the soft side for infants and a firmer side for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable for older infants who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They're typically cheaper than innerspring mattresses.