Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an exclusive sleeping space to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent sleeping routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, such as bassinets.
Whether you go for modern or traditional one, make sure to check if it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposures to toxic chemicals. Consider other features when choosing the crib that is suitable for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent you are responsible for the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your child to sleep soundly in a secure environment, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. It's important to choose a crib that is in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are numerous things to look for, including slat spacing that isn't more than 2 3/8 inch so your baby's arms or legs aren't entangled. Also you should look for a mattress that has an incredibly firm and comfortable fit; no drop sides; stable cribs without wobbling parts and detailed instructions on assembly. Avoid using any bells or whistles, such as bumper pads or streamers that can strangle your baby.
Choose a crib that is painted with low-VOC paints that is a safer choice to traditional glues and varnishes that release harmful chemicals into the air. In addition, you should look for a mattress made of non-toxic materials such as cotton and organic foam.
Finally, pick a crib that is free of decorative ornaments and cutouts that could cause injury if your baby grabs them or gets their fingers stuck in them. It is also important to ensure that the mattress cover is secure and securely fitted to the crib frame, and that there aren't any gaps between the frame and the mattress. Avoid placing blankets, pillows, sheepskins, or pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. These can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also be a risk, since they could be pulled down onto the baby and cause suffocation. You should opt for a mesh crib mobile 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
One of the most essential things your baby will require is a safe place to sleep. Cribs are a great place for your baby to sleep particularly when you are engaged in other household chores.
You'll likely find cribs at your local home goods store or nursery. best cots of establishments must adhere to strict guidelines set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are generally the best place to begin your search for a quality crib. You'll have to take into consideration several factors before you buy the crib.
Cribs are a fantastic option for newborns, infants and toddlers, providing an incredibly comfortable bed that will last for their first few years of existence. Many models feature convertible features that let you transform them into toddler beds or full size beds, which will help you save money and extend the life of your crib purchase.
The compact size of cribs makes them ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models come with the option of a changing table, which can be useful if your nursery space is restricted in space.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them easy to move. This makes them a great choice when traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family because you can easily put the crib away in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the lightweight construction of cribs for travel can lead to less sturdy construction than standard cribs which could be an issue for some parents.
3. Style
Look for a crib with an original design if you want it to stand out. You can find one with a sleek, minimalist design or one made of a material like bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for easy visibility. They tend to be more expensive than their solid wood counterparts, but they can add an attractive accent to any nursery.
Some cribs have an older-fashioned style with graceful curves and molding, which is reminiscent of furniture from the past. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with stunning details. These are excellent options to consider if you're in search of a crib that can become an important family heirloom in the future. They can also be paired with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular design. It has straight, smooth lines and an ethereal, bare-wood look. This lets the natural beauty the wood to shine through. They're an excellent fit for modern or contemporary nursery, and you can paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table could make it easier to change your baby, especially when they're young and aren't able to sit on their own. most recommended cribs have drawers beneath to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs are curved or have designs on the sides which can be used to create an effect of canopy. These can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are a fantastic way to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. But, make sure that any fabric you use is not too long or that it is securely connected to the crib. This will ensure your child isn't able to reach out and grasp the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed or full-size bed is a fantastic investment for any family. This feature will help you save money by not purchasing four separate beds over your child's growth and will also free up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it easy to utilize them as required.
Another aspect to be aware of while shopping for a crib is that many cribs have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to customize the look and function of your crib. It can be especially useful in the case of only a tiny or limited storage space in your nursery. Some cribs even have wheels that can be incredibly useful when you need to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made with durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the strict safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have a contemporary or classic design that can suit a wide variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood as well as others made out of steel or painted. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins leak into the environment.
Selecting the ideal convertible crib for your child will require some thought and research however, it's an important choice that could last for years to come. Look at your options and compare the prices as well as delivery times and other factors before making a decision.
5. Value
The crib is a large piece of furniture that can have a major impact on the look and feel of your baby's nursery. It is essential to choose a crib that fits your style and will work well with the decor of your room. This can make a significant impact on how you feel about your nursery.
As your child ages, cribs designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds will continue to be useful, giving you a long-term benefit. They are also less costly than a full-size bed and can be given or sold to a relative after your child is no longer in need of.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain, since most of the components can be removed and cleaned and the majority come with a conversion kit that makes it easy to turn them into the proper size bed for your child. 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 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 mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning to toddlerhood, having one side that is softer for infants and a more firm side for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable for older babies who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They are also typically cheaper than innerspring alternatives.