Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated sleeping space for infants to reduce the risk Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also helps to establish a regular sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you choose an innovative design or a traditional style, be sure to check if it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Consider other features when choosing 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 comfortably in a safe environment free of hazards such as sharp edges or splinters. It is essential to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are numerous things to consider, including slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's arms or legs aren't entangled. Also a mattress that is a firm, snug fit with no drop sides; sturdy cribs that aren't wobbling and detailed instructions on assembly. Avoid any bells and whistles such as bumper pads or streamers that can strangle your baby.
Find a crib that is coated with low-VOC paints, a safer alternative to traditional glues and varnishes that release harmful chemicals into the air. Also, search for a mattress that is made of non-toxic materials such as cotton and organic foam.
Finally, pick a crib that is devoid of decorative ornaments and cutouts that could cause injury in the event that your child grasps them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. Make sure the mattress cover fits tightly to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame. Avoid putting blankets, pillows or sheepskins or pillow-like stuffed animals in the crib. These can increase your baby’s risk of SIDS. Mobiles are also dangerous, as they could fall down on the baby and cause them to suffocate. In the ideal scenario, you should stay clear of using a mobile at all costs and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is better 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 needs is an area that is safe to sleep in. Cribs are a great place for your baby to sleep especially when you are working on other household chores.
You can find cribs at your local nursery or at a home goods store. They must follow strict guidelines laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the best place to start your search for a high-quality crib. You'll have to take into consideration several factors before you buy the crib.
Cribs are a great option for infants, newborns and toddlers, offering an inviting sleeping space that will last well beyond their initial years of life. Many cribs have convertible features, allowing you to convert the crib into an infant bed or a full-size bed. This can save you money on your purchase and extend the life of your crib.
Another benefit of cribs is their small footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some models include an adjustable table, which can be beneficial if your nursery is small in size.
Travel cribs offer the same level of convenience, as they're designed to be light and easily foldable for transport. This makes them an ideal option for traveling with your child, or when visiting family and friends, as you can easily put the crib away in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the lightweight design of travel cribs may lead to less sturdy construction than standard models, which may be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will stand out in a room Look for a crib that has a distinctive style. You can find one with an elegant, minimalist design or one made of a material such as glass or bamboo and has clear sides for a better visibility. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood versions however, they can make an appealing focal point to any nursery.
Other cribs feature an older-fashioned style with beautiful curves and molding, which is reminiscent of antique furniture. They can also be elaborate and are typically handcrafted with gorgeous details. These are excellent options to consider if you're in search of an infant crib that will become an important family heirloom in the future. They also work well with any style.
Another popular style is a Scandinavian-style crib that has straight lines that are smooth and a light, naked wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. They're a good fit for modern or contemporary nursery and you can paint them or leave them unpainted to match your decor.
These cribs can also be used as a changing table making it easier to change your child. This is especially important for infants who are young and may have trouble sitting up. These cribs have drawers that can be used to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs have curving sides or designs that can be used as a canopy. These can provide a touch of luxury to any nursery and are a great way to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Be sure to use fabrics that are not too long and tightly anchored to your crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler bed, daybed and full-size bed is a fantastic investment for any family. This feature will save you money from purchasing four separate beds over your child's growth and will also free up space in the nursery. A lot of convertible cribs are also equipped with conversion kits that store easily, making them easy to set up and use when the time comes.
Another aspect to be aware of when you're looking for cribs is that a lot of cribs come with additional features, like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This lets you alter the look and functionality of your crib, and could be particularly useful when you have the smallest or most small amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs come with wheels that can be extremely helpful when you need to move the bed for cleaning or for any other reason.
Convertible cribs are typically made using durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. nursery cots meet stringent safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature modern or classic designs that can fit into the various styles of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed of wood, whereas others can be constructed of stainless steel painted or metal. Certain brands are committed to sustainable development, offering eco-friendly cribs that are made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins are not released into the surrounding environment.
Selecting the ideal convertible crib for your baby requires some time and effort, but it is an important choice that could last for a long time. Be sure to consider your options carefully and be sure to look at prices, delivery costs, setup times and other factors to make the best decision for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the most important piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the room. Because of that, choosing one that is in line with your preferred style or fits well with the rest of your room decor will make a big impact on how you feel about the nursery as you are there.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to transform into toddler beds or daybeds extend their utility as your child grows, giving you long-term value. They're also generally less expensive than larger beds and can be sold or given to a friend when your child no longer needs them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, since most of the components can be removed and cleaned, and most come with an adapter kit that makes it easy to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are incredibly durable and can withstand the demands of daily use, with some even lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options which makes them easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, they may wear out more quickly and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning through toddlerhood, with the soft side for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They're generally more secure than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older children who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They are also typically more affordable than innerspring options.