Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with a dedicated sleep space to decrease the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also offer more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you choose a modern design or a traditional one, make certain to confirm that it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals. Be aware of other aspects when selecting the crib that is right for your family.
1. Safety
As parents you are responsible for the safety of your child is of paramount importance. You want your child to rest peacefully in a safe environment, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. Pick a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
These include slat spacings less than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's legs, arms or head from getting stuck; a mattress that is firm and snug-fitting with no drop sides; a solid crib with no wobbling parts and clear assembly instructions. Also, avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streams or pads, as they could cause strangulation for your baby.
Choose a crib coated with low-VOC paints which is a safer alternative to traditional varnishes and glues that emit harmful chemicals into the air. Similarly, look for a mattress made of non-toxic materials such as cotton and organic foam.
Choose a crib without any decorative embellishments or cutouts. They could cause injuries if your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Make sure the mattress cover is tightly fitted to the crib frame 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 could increase your baby’s risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a hazard, as they can be tipped over onto the baby and cause the baby to suffocate. You should choose a mesh crib mobile that is breathable, instead of a mobile. This is healthier for the health of your baby and allows you to supervise them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most essential things your baby will require is a safe place to sleep. Cribs are a great place for your baby to rest especially when you are working on 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 start your search for a top-quality crib. If you want to buy a crib for your home, there are a few things to consider prior to purchasing.
Cribs are an excellent choice for newborns, infants and toddlers, providing a comfortable sleeping area that will last well beyond their first few years of existence. Many cribs come with convertible features that let you transform cribs into toddler beds or full size beds, which can help you save money and extend the lifespan of your crib purchase.
Another advantage of cribs is their small footprint that makes them suitable for smaller spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some cribs also have a changing station that is a great option in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs provide a similar level of convenience, as they're designed to be light and foldable for easy transport. They're a great option for traveling with your baby or visiting family and friends, as they can be easily packed into a suitcase before you leave. However, the light construction of travel cribs can also lead to less sturdy construction than standard cribs and could pose an issue for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will make a statement in a room Look for a crib with unique styling. You may find one that features a sleek, minimalist design or one that is made of a material such as bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for a better access. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however they can be a stunning focal piece in any nursery.
Some cribs feature an older style with graceful curves and moldings, as well as an appearance that reminds of heirloom pieces. They can also be quite intricate and are often handcrafted with beautiful details. These are great options for a crib that will become a favorite piece of furniture in the course of time and work with any style.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian crib with sleek straight lines and a light, bare wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are ideal for an 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 much easier to change your baby, particularly when they're younger and struggle to sit up on their own. They typically come with drawers underneath to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs are curved or have designs on the side which can be used to create an illusion of a canopy. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery and keep your baby comfortable and cool during their sleep. Be sure, however, that any fabric you use isn't too long or that it is securely attached to the 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 allows you to save money as you do not have to purchase four separate beds as your child grows, and also saves space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that store easily, making them simple to assemble and use when the time comes.
Another thing to keep in mind while shopping for a crib is that many models have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This will allow you to alter the look and functionality of your crib, and can be particularly useful if you're working with only a tiny or limited storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels, which can be extremely helpful when you need to move the bed for cleaning or any other reason.
Convertible cribs are usually constructed with durable, non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby and comply with the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. Many models have a classic or contemporary design that will suit different styles of nursery décor. Some cribs are constructed from wood and others are made from steel or painted. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs that use GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
The best convertible crib for your child will take some time and effort however it is an important decision that can last for years to come. Be sure to consider your options carefully, and be sure to compare prices, delivery and the time of setup, as well as other factors to make the right choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the largest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it has a big impact on the overall look and feel of the space. 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 difference in how you feel about the nursery when you spend time there.
As your child ages, cribs designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds are still useful and provide you with an advantage over time. They are also less costly than a traditional beds and can be donated or sold to a family member when your child no longer has need.
Cots 4 Tots are also easy to maintain, as the majority of the components can be removed and cleaned, and most have a conversion kit that makes it easy to turn them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs can stand up to a lot of use and are robust. Some even last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options and are easier to maneuver when changing sheets or altering the mattress's height. They can wear out faster and need to be replaced sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual-firm or two-stage mattresses, are designed to be used by babies and toddlers. One side is soft for infants while the other side is more rigid for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older children who don't like the sagging feel of foam. These mattresses are also often cheaper than innerspring ones.