Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an exclusive sleeping space to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular sleeping routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with a modern design or a traditional style, be sure to check if it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Consider other features to find the perfect crib for your family.
1. Safety
As parents you are responsible for the safety of your child is a top priority. You want your child to rest peacefully in a safe and secure space and free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
These include slat spacing not more than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's legs, arms or head from being trapped; mattresses that are well-made and comfortable; no drop sides; a sturdy crib with no wobbling parts and clear assembly instructions. Also, avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper pads or streamers, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Find a crib coated with low-VOC paints, a safer alternative to traditional glues and varnishes that release harmful chemicals into the air. Choose mattresses made of non-toxic materials such as organic foam and cotton.
Also, select a crib that is devoid of decorative embellishments and cutouts, which could be a risk of injury in the event that your child grabs them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. Make sure the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of the crib and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. Avoid putting pillows, blankets or sheepskins, as well as similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. These could increase the risk for your baby to develop SIDS. Mobiles are also a danger, as they can be pulled over the baby and cause them to collapse. You should opt for an infant crib with a mesh structure that is breathable, instead of a mobile. This will be better for your baby's health as well as let you keep an eye on your little one while they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most important things your baby will need is a safe place to sleep. Cribs are a great place for your little one to rest, which can be particularly helpful when you're busy with other household chores or other activities.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or at the home goods store. They must follow strict guidelines set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal place to begin your search for a high-quality crib. If you're planning to purchase a crib for your home, there are many things to consider before purchasing.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping space for toddlers, infants and newborns that last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to transform cribs into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can reduce your costs and prolong the lifespan of your crib purchase.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their small footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some models come with the option of a changing table, which can be beneficial if your nursery is limited in space.
Travel cribs offer a similar degree of convenience, since they're designed to be light and foldable to make it easy to transport. This makes them an excellent option when you're traveling with your child or visiting friends and family, as you can easily pack up the crib in a few minutes before leaving. The crib's lightweight construction could result in a less sturdy crib than standard models. This might be a concern to some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with a unique design if you want it to stand out. You may find one that features sleek, minimalist designs or one made of a material like glass or bamboo and features clear sides for easy access. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives, but can be a beautiful focal piece in any nursery.
Some cribs feature traditional designs with graceful curves and moldings, as well as an appearance that reminds of heirloom pieces. They can also be extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with beautiful details. These are great options for a crib that will become a favorite piece of furniture in the course of time and can be paired with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is another popular design. similar web page features smooth, straight lines with the light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. They're an excellent fit for modern or contemporary nursery, and you can easily paint them or leave them unpainted to match your decor.
Cribs that can serve as a combination of a changing table can make it much easier to change your baby, especially when they're young and have trouble sitting up on their own. These cribs have drawers that can be used to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs are bent or have designs on the side that can be used to create a canopy effect. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery and help keep your baby comfy and cool as they sleep. But, make sure that the fabric you choose to use isn't too long, or that it's firmly connected to the crib. This will ensure your child isn't able to reach out and grab the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed, or a full-size bed can be extremely useful for any family. This feature allows you to save money as you do not have to buy four beds as your child gets older, and it also helps to save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it easy to make use of them whenever required.
Another important thing to consider when you're looking for a crib is that many models have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This allows you to customize the appearance and function of your crib. It's especially beneficial when your nursery is limited in storage space. Some cribs even have wheels, which can be incredibly helpful if you need to move the bed around to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are generally made from sturdy 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 modern or classic designs that can suit a wide selection of nursery décor. Some cribs are made from wood, while others could be made from metal or painted stainless steel. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leak into the environment.
Selecting the ideal convertible crib for your baby will take some time and thought however, it's an important decision that will be used for many years to come. Compare your options and compare the prices as well as delivery times and other factors before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is the most important piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby and can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the space. It is crucial to select the crib that is in line with your style and will work perfectly with your decor. This can make a big impact on how you feel about your nursery.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds can be used as your child grows, giving you long-term value. They're also generally less expensive than full-size beds, and can be traded in or donated to a relative when your child no more requires them.
Convertible cribs are also 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 baby. Wood cribs can stand up to a lot of use and are sturdy. Some even last 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 may get worn out faster and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called two-stage or dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning of toddlerhood, with the soft side for infants and a more firm side for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses, and are more comfortable for older infants who don't like the sagging feel of foam. They are also typically cheaper than innerspring alternatives.