Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an area for sleeping that is specifically designed to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and helps to establish a consistent sleep routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, like bassinets.
Whether you go for an innovative design or a traditional one, make sure to verify that it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Consider other features when choosing the crib that is suitable for your family.
1. Safety
As parents to a child, the safety of your baby is your top concern. You want your child to rest peacefully in an environment free of dangers such as sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
These include slat spacing no wider than 2 3/8 inches to avoid your baby's head, arms or legs from being stuck; an appropriate mattress that is firm and snug-fitting; no drop sides; a stable crib that has no wobbling parts and clear assembly instructions. Beware of any bells or whistles such as bumper pads and streamers which could strangle your baby.
Look for cribs painted with low-VOC varnish, which is an alternative in comparison to conventional glues or varnishes that release harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of organic foam and cotton.
Finally, pick a crib that is free of decorative ornaments and cutouts that could pose injury risks in the event that your child grabs them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. You should also check that the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of your crib, and that there aren't gaps between the mattress and the frame. Avoid placing blankets, pillows, sheepskins, or similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. These can increase your baby’s risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a risk, since they could be pulled down onto the baby, causing the baby to suffocate. It is recommended to choose a mesh crib mobile that is breathable instead of mobiles. This is better for the health of your baby and allows you to monitor them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most crucial things your baby will need is an area that is safe to sleep in. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your little one to rest, which can be particularly useful when you're juggling other household chores or other activities.
You'll probably find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These types of establishments must follow strict guidelines set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best place to begin your search for a quality crib. If you want to buy a crib for your home, there are a few factors to take into consideration before purchasing.
Cribs provide a comfy sleeping space for toddlers, infants and newborns that last well beyond the initial months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to convert the crib into an infant bed or a full-size bed. This can save you money on your purchase and extend its life.
Another benefit of cribs is their compact footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models also include a changing station that is a great option if you have limited room in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer the same level of convenience, as they're designed to be lightweight and foldable for easy transport. They're a great option to travel with your baby or visiting friends and family because they are easy to pack and taken away. The lightweight construction can also result in a less durable crib than standard models. This might be a cause of concern for some parents.
3. Style
Look for a crib with a unique design if you want it to stand out. It could be one that features a sleek, minimalist design or one that is made of a material like bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for a better access. These are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives but can be a beautiful focal piece in any nursery.
Some cribs have an older-fashioned style with graceful curves and moldings, reminiscent of furniture from the past. They can be extremely elaborate, and are usually handmade with beautiful details. These are excellent options for a crib that can become a beloved piece of furniture for your family over time and can be paired with any theme.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular style. It is characterized by straight lines that are smooth and straight with the light, bare-wood finish. This allows the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. These cribs are ideal for an modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood bare to fit in with your decor.
These cribs can be used as a changing table making it easier to change your baby. This is especially important for infants who are young and have difficulty sitting up. cheap cot beds of cribs usually have drawers underneath to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
Some cribs have curved sides or designs that can be used as an umbrella. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery and keep your baby comfortable and cool during their sleep. Make sure to choose a fabrics that are not too long and that is tightly anchored to your 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 a daybed, or a full-size bed is a great option for any family. This feature allows you to save money as you do not 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 conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them simple to put together and use at any time.
Another thing to keep in mind when shopping for a crib is that many models have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This allows you to customize your crib's look and functionality. It's especially beneficial if your nursery has limited storage space. Some cribs are equipped with wheels that can be incredibly useful if you have to move the bed for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made with durable, non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby and meet stringent safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature modern or classic designs that can be adapted to a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are crafted from wood and others are made out of steel or painted. Certain brands are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful toxins are not absorbed into the surrounding environment.
The best convertible crib for your child requires some time and effort however it is an important decision that can last for years to come. Take your time when evaluating your options, and be sure to compare prices, delivery and time to set up, among other things to make the best decision for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the largest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it can have a significant impact on the overall appearance and feel of the space. Because of that, choosing one that matches your preferred style or fits well with the rest of your room's decor can make a significant impact on how you feel about the nursery when you are there.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds extend their utility as your child grows, giving you long-term value. They are also less expensive than a traditional bed and can be given or sold to a relative when your child no longer has need of.
crib sets can be easily maintained since the majority of parts can be taken off and cleaned, and many come with a conversion set 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 can even last for many children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring mattresses which makes them easier to move when changing sheets or adjusting mattress height. However, they may be more worn out and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also referred to as dual firm or two-stage mattress are designed to be used for babies and toddlers. One side is gentler for infants while the other is more firm for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses, and are more comfortable for older infants who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They're also generally cheaper than innerspring ones.