Buying a Great Crib
A great crib is an essential for any nursery. Parents are seeking a crib that meets stringent safety standards.
They also want one that is attractive and is simple to put together. It is also important to verify whether the bed has different mattress heights and whether it can be converted into a daybed, toddler or a bed.
Aesthetics
The best cribs will have a style that matches the décor of your nursery. They also feature a timeless style that won't change as your baby grows older. While some might prefer a modern design, others may want something more traditional. You can choose from different colors and finishes to match your nursery's style. Some cribs have additional features that help them stand out from the competition.
For example for instance, the Evolur is made of a breathable mesh that enhances the airflow and breathability. Parents reported that it kept their babies at a healthy temperature during bedtime and nap time. It has six different mattress heights that can be adjusted to meet various sleeping preferences. It can also be tilted to ease colic and reflux. Its minimalist design makes this a great choice for smaller nurseries. It is more expensive than some other alternatives.
The DaVinci Jayden is a stylish crib. This solid wood crib could be converted into a toddler or daybed by purchasing separate conversion kits. It is the classic high-back design, and its furniture options include a dresser and changing table. The smaller sides of this crib are a perfect option for moms with shorter legs and dads who don't have to reach over the rails to pick up their child.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed is another multi-purpose option. It can be used as a bassinet crib, or toddler bed and features a circular form that creates a womb-like environment for your baby. It is also easy to move since it is equipped with wheels and a shorter width. The minimalist design of the furniture means it doesn't require lots of toys or blankets and the accessories can be used to hang a canopy or mobile.
The Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 is another fantastic crib that can be incorporated into the minimalist nursery. Its sleek and simple design looks clean, and it has an extra-wide mattress. It's also more expensive than other cribs and requires a toddler conversion kit. It's a lot of exposed hardware that parents may find distracting.
Safety
It is crucial to consider the safety of a crib prior to purchasing one. Although it might appear to be a bit trivial, every aspect of the crib's layout should be geared toward safety. For instance, slats shouldn't be more than 3/8" apart (about the size of a soda-can) and the corners should not extend above the top rail on the mattress support. Furthermore, there shouldn't be any cutouts with decorative designs which could cause a child's arms or head to get stuck. It is recommended to opt for new products that meet current safety standards, although if you must use second-hand equipment, be sure it hasn't been subject to recall and is in compliance with all guidelines of the manufacturer.
Also, be sure to submit the product registration card that often comes with cribs and other baby equipment, so that you will be informed if there's recall. It's also an excellent idea to be aware of cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the Heimlich maneuver in the event of an emergency.
When you are choosing a crib your baby, be sure to not place soft toys or other objects in the crib. They can cause suffocation to infants and increase the chance of SIDS. The crib should also not be equipped with any bumpers or pillow, since they could cause suffocation.
In the end, you should pick a crib that has two or four height options. This allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows, and prevent them from being able to climb out of the crib or being injured if they fall when trying to stand or crawl. The mattress support is typically set at the highest level for infants. However, it is recommended to lower it as your child grows.
It is also a great idea to inspect the crib regularly for any loose or cracked metal hardware. Bolts and nails can become loose over time. It is important to check them every week.
Ease of Assembling
The easiest cribs to assemble are those with frame-and-panel construction on the three sides of the crib, as well as bars on the front. This design is simple for woodworking and doesn't need any complex joinery or specialized hardware. If you're a DIYer this type of crib is also simple to paint or stain. The most important thing to remember when assembling a crib to follow the directions carefully. You could put your baby's life in danger if you miss even a single step. The instructions that come with the majority of cribs are typically extremely specific. However, you can do a quick search on the internet to learn more about the crib you have.
When selecting a crib, it is important to consider the ease with which it can be moved. A majority of cribs are too large to fit through doors that are standard. You'll have take them apart to move them from one room to another. This can be a pain and can lead to frustration, especially if you're in a rush to get your baby to sleep.
If you are seeking a crib that has wheels or a standing model, then you should look for one. Those options will make it easier to transport from room to room, and also keep the crib safe and clean. Be sure to choose the crib with an uncluttered design. You can then easily decorate it according to the theme of your nursery.
A good crib is easy to assemble and can be taken apart to be stored. It's also light and easy to move around so you can put it together in just minutes. The best cribs come with all the hardware you need and there's no need to fret about additional parts. Be sure to check the hardware regularly since bolts and nails can get loose over time.
Pottery Barn Kids Larkin is one of our favorite. It's a design inspired by Craftsman and is made of poplar which is a hard wood that resists dents better than pine, which is which is a softwood. It's strong enough to last through several children and is an attractive addition to any nursery.
Cost
Some cribs cost a pretty penny however, you can find ones that will fit your budget. If you want to buy an item that will last for years to come, select one with a classic design and a solid construction. Avoid particle board and search for quality wood. Avoid rough or cutout areas that may pose a choking risk for your infant.
A crib that grows with your child is a great option, so think about buying one that can be transformed into a toddler bed and later, into a full-size bed. It is not necessary to purchase a new bed for your child as they grow older.
Pottery Barn Kids has a large selection of cribs starting at under $600. You can build it yourself using UPS delivery, or opt for Pottery Barn Kids’ in-home delivery and assembly service to be assembled in your nursery. If you're looking for an old-fashioned, modern or eclectic design, there's sure to be a crib that matches your style.
You can also buy a convertible bed that fits into any mattress. This allows you to keep using the crib as your child grows. They usually come with an trundle bed and dresser that are built into the frame, therefore you don't need an additional piece of furniture for your baby's bedroom as they get older. Some of these cribs even include a rocking mechanism which some parents find relaxing for babies who are fussy and reflux.
The drawback to these cribs is that they are bigger than standalone cribs, which means they will occupy more space in your home. And, if you're looking to move them from room to room, you'll need to disassemble them first.
You can also find cribs that are certified GREENGUARD gold, which means that they have been tested for over 10,000 chemicals and cleared. This certification is important if you're concerned about the environmental impact of your crib and your baby's health.