Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide a dedicated sleeping space for infants to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also provide more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with an innovative design or a traditional one, make sure to check if it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Also, consider other features to determine the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent your baby's security is of the utmost importance. You want your child to sleep at ease in a space free of dangers, such as sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are a variety of things to look for such as slat spacing that isn't more than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's legs or arms do not get caught. Also a mattress that is an incredibly firm and comfortable fit; no drop sides; sturdy cribs that aren't wobbling and a clear instruction on assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, for example bumper streams or pads, as they could cause strangulation for your baby.
Find a crib that is painted with low-VOC paints which is a safer alternative to glues and varnishes that emit harmful chemicals into the air. Also, consider a mattress constructed with non-toxic materials, such as organic cotton and foam.
Finally, pick a crib that is free of ornaments and cutouts that could cause injury when your child grabs them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. Also, make sure that the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of your crib and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and the frame. It is also recommended to avoid placing pillows comforters, quilts, sheepskins or pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib, as these can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose risky, since they could fall down on the baby and cause them to suffocate. You should choose a crib mattress made of mesh that is breathable instead of a mobile. This is better for the health of your baby and allows you to watch over them while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby's sleep is one of the most important things you'll need. Cribs are a great place for your baby to rest particularly when you are working on other household chores.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or home goods store. These types of establishments must adhere to strict guidelines that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best place to start your search for a quality crib. You'll have to consider a variety of factors before you buy the crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to transform them into toddler beds or full size beds, which can reduce your costs and prolong the life of your crib purchase.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their small footprint that makes them suitable for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some models include the option of a changing table, which is useful if your nursery is restricted in space.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them simple to carry around. This makes them a great option when you're traveling with your child, or when visiting family and friends because you can easily put the crib away in just a few minutes prior to leaving. The lightweight construction can also result in a less durable crib than the standard ones. This could be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will make a statement in a room choose a crib with a unique style. You may find one with sleek, minimalist designs or one that is constructed of a material like bamboo or glass and has clear sides for a better visibility. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives, but they can add an appealing focal point to any nursery.
Some cribs feature traditional designs with beautiful curves and moldings. They also have an appearance that reminds of heirloom pieces. They can be quite extravagant, and are typically handmade with beautiful details. They are an excellent choice when you're looking for the perfect crib that will be an important family heirloom in the future. They also work well with any style.
Another style that is popular is a Scandina via n-style crib that has smooth straight lines and a light, bare wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. They're great for modern or contemporary nursery and you can easily paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
Cribs that can serve as a combination of a changing table could make it easier to change your baby, especially when they're younger and have trouble sitting up on their own. They typically come with drawers underneath to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as a canopy. They can provide a touch of luxury to any nursery and are a fantastic way to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. Make sure to choose a fabric that is not too long and is securely attached to your crib. This will prevent your child from reaching out to grab the fabric or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler's crib, a daybed or a full-size bed can be extremely useful for any family. This feature can save you money purchasing four separate beds during your child's growth and also save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs also come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them simple to put together and use when the time comes.
When looking for a brand new crib, keep in mind that a lot of cribs have additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This lets you modify the appearance and function of your crib, and could be especially useful if you're working with a small or small amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs are equipped with wheels, which can be incredibly helpful if you need to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are constructed from durable, non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the strict safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs also feature an elegant or contemporary design that will fit into a broad variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood, while others are fabricated from metal or painted steel. Certain brands are committed to environmental sustainability, and offer eco-friendly cribs that are made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins are not absorbed into the surrounding environment.
The best convertible crib for your nursery requires some time and effort however, it's an important choice that could last for years to come. Compare your options and compare prices and delivery times as well as other aspects before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it has a major impact on the overall look and feel of the space. mini cotbed is why choosing one that matches your preference in style or fits well with the rest of your room's decor can make a huge impact on how you feel about the nursery when you are there.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to be converted into toddler beds or daybeds increase their value as your child grows, giving you a long-term benefit. They are also less expensive than a full-size bed and can be given or sold to a relative when your child is no longer in need.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, since most of the parts are easily removed and cleaned and the majority have an adapter kit that makes it easy to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely robust and can withstand the rigors of frequent use, with some lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives which makes them more convenient to move when changing sheets or altering mattress height. They are more likely to wear out and need replacement sooner than innerspring mattress.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also referred to as dual firm or two-stage mattresses are designed to be used by infants and toddlers. One side is softer for infants while the other side is firmer for toddlers. They're generally safer than foam mattresses and can be more comfortable for older infants who don't like the sagging feel of foam. They're also generally cheaper than innerspring alternatives.