Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer infants a dedicated sleep space to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you choose an innovative design or a traditional one, make certain to confirm that it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and reduces exposures to toxic chemicals. Then consider other features to determine the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As parents to a child, the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your baby to sleep peacefully in a safe and secure space, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. It's important to choose a crib that is in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
This includes slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's legs, arms or head from being trapped in the mattress; an appropriate mattress that is well-made and comfortable with no drop sides; a stable crib with no wobbling parts; and detailed assembly instructions. Avoid using any bells or whistles such as bumper pads or streamers that can strangle your baby.
Look for a crib that has been painted with low-VOC paint, a safer alternative to glues and varnishes which release harmful chemicals into the air. Choose mattresses made of non-toxic materials such as organic foam and cotton.
Pick a crib with no decorative ornaments or cutouts. They can cause injury if your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover fits tightly to the crib frame and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. Avoid putting pillows, blankets or sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed animals in the crib. These can increase your baby’s risk of SIDS. Mobiles are also a danger, as they could fall over the baby, causing them to choke. You should opt for an infant crib with a mesh structure that is breathable, instead of a mobile. This is better for the health of your baby and lets you watch over them while they sleep.
2. best crib newborn for your baby to sleep is among the most essential things you'll require. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your little one to rest, which will be particularly useful when you're busy with other household chores or activities.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or home goods store. These establishments must adhere to strict regulations set out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal location to start your search for a high-quality crib. You'll need to take into consideration several aspects prior to purchasing a crib.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that last well beyond the initial months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features, allowing you to convert the crib into an infant bed or a full-size bed. This will help you save money on your purchase and extend its life.
Another advantage of cribs is their small footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models come with the option of a changing table, which is useful if your nursery is limited in space.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them simple to move. This makes them an excellent option when you're traveling with your child or visiting family and friends, as you can easily pack up the crib in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the lightweight construction of travel cribs may result in less robust construction than standard models which could be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with distinctive design if want it to stand out. You can find a crib with a minimalist, sleek design or made from materials like bamboo or glass. It could also have transparent sides for easy observation. They are usually more expensive than their solid wood counterparts however, they can make a beautiful focal point to any nursery.
Some cribs feature a more traditional design with elegant curves and moldings. They also have the look of heirloom pieces. They can be very extravagant, and are typically handcrafted with beautiful details. They are a great option if you're looking for the perfect crib that will be an important family heirloom in the future. They can also be paired with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is another popular style. It features smooth, straight lines with a light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty the wood to shine through. These cribs are great for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to match your decor.
Cribs that can serve as a combination of a changing table can help you change your baby, especially when they're young and have trouble sitting up on their own. They typically have drawers beneath to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
Some cribs have curved sides or designs that can be used as an umbrella. These can provide a touch of luxury to any nursery and are an excellent method to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Make sure you use a fabrics that aren't too long and that is firmly attached to your crib. This will ensure your child isn't able to reach out and grasp the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed or full-size bed is a fantastic investment for any family. This feature will help you save money by not purchasing four separate beds over the development of your child as well as save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them simple to set up and use at any time.
When you are looking for a crib that you want to buy, keep in mind that many models have additional features, such as adjustable heights for the mattress or drawers. This allows you to alter the look and functionality of your crib. It can be particularly beneficial when you have only a tiny or limited amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels that are extremely useful if you want to move the bed for cleaning or for any other reason.
Convertible cribs typically are made from sturdy non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the strict safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have a contemporary or classic design that can be adapted to a wide variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made from wood, while others could be made from stainless steel or painted metal. Certain brands are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly cribs that are made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful chemicals are not absorbed into the environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your baby requires some time and thought however, it's an important decision that can last for a long time. Be sure to consider your options carefully, and be sure to look at prices, delivery costs, time to set up, among other things to make the best choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it has a major impact on the overall appearance and feel of the room. It is crucial to select a crib that matches your style or will go perfectly with your decor. This can make a big difference in how you feel about your nursery.
In the same way, cribs designed to transform into daybeds or toddler beds extend their utility as your child grows, giving you long-term value. They are also less costly than a traditional bed and can be given or sold to a family member once your child is no longer in need.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, as the majority of the components can be cleaned and removed and many come with a conversion kit that allows you to turn them into the proper size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand a lot of use and are sturdy. Some can even last for several children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives, making them easier to move when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, they can be more worn out 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 infants and toddlers. One side is gentler for infants, while the other side is more firm for toddlers. They are typically more secure than foam mattresses and can be more comfortable to older children who don't like the sagging feeling of foam. These mattresses are often more affordable than innerspring alternatives.