Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated baby's sleeping space to reduce the risk Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also helps to establish a regular sleep routine. Cribs also offer more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you opt for a modern design or a more traditional design ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure it adheres to the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Consider other features when choosing the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As parents, the safety of your baby is of paramount importance. You want your baby to sleep peacefully in a safe and secure space, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are numerous things to look out for such as slat spacing that isn't more than 2 3/8 inch so your baby's legs and arms aren't entangled. Also a mattress that is a firm, snug fit; no drop sides; stable cribs with no wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, like bumper streamers or pads, which could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Choose a crib that has been painted with low-VOC paint that is a safer choice to traditional varnishes and glues that emit 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 free of decorative embellishments and cutouts, which could cause injury when your child grasps them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. It is also important to ensure that the mattress cover is securely fit to the frame of the crib, and that there are no gaps between the mattress and the frame. Also, you should avoid putting pillows, quilts, comforters and sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib as these can increase the risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also be a risk, since they could be pulled down onto the baby and cause the baby to suffocate. It is recommended to avoid the use of mobiles completely and opt for a 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
A secure place for your baby's sleep is among the most essential things you'll need. Cribs are a great place for your baby to relax, which can be especially useful when you're busy tending to other household chores or activities.
You'll likely find cribs in your local home goods store or nursery. These types of establishments have to follow strict guidelines established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are usually the best place to begin your search for a top quality crib. You'll need to consider a variety of aspects prior to purchasing the crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that last well beyond the first few months of life. Many models feature convertible features that let you transform them into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can help you save money and extend the life of your crib purchase.
The small size of cribs makes them ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models come with the option of a changing table, which is beneficial if your nursery is small in size.
Travel cribs provide a similar level of convenience, as they're designed to be light and easily foldable for transport. They're an excellent choice for traveling with your baby or visiting relatives and friends, as they are easy to pack up before you leave. However, the lightweight design of travel cribs can also cause less durable construction than standard cribs, which may be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will stand out in a space choose a crib with a unique style. It could be one that features an elegant, minimalist design or one that is made of a material such as bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for easy access. These are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however, they can be a beautiful centerpiece in any nursery.
Some cribs have a more traditional look with elegant curves and molding, which is reminiscent of furniture from the past. They can also be quite elaborate and are typically handcrafted with gorgeous details. They are a great option when you're looking for an infant crib that will become an heirloom for your family over time. They can also go well with any design.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian-style crib with sleek straight lines and a light, naked wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are perfect for a modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood bare to match your decor.
These cribs can be used as a changing table making it easier to change your baby. This is especially true for babies who are still young and have trouble sitting up. They typically come with drawers underneath to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs have curved sides or designs that can be used as an umbrella. These can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are a fantastic option to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Make sure you use a fabric that is not too long and securely attached to your crib. This will ensure that your child doesn't reach out to grasp the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed or a full-size bed is a great option for any family. This feature will help you save money by not buying four separate beds throughout your child's growth and also save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with simple-to-store conversion kits, making it simple to use them when required.
When shopping for a crib that you want to buy, keep in mind that a lot of cribs have additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to customize your crib's look and functionality. This is particularly useful in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs have wheels, which can be incredibly helpful if you need to move the bed to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically constructed from durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the rigorous safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature modern or classic designs that can fit into different styles of nursery décor. Some cribs are constructed of wood, while others may be constructed of stainless steel or painted metal. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
Selecting cots and tots for your nursery requires some time and effort however, it's an important decision that will last for years to come. Consider your options and evaluate the prices and delivery times as well as other factors before making a decision.
5. Value
The crib is a large piece of furniture that will make a significant impact on the design and feel of the nursery of your baby. Because of that, choosing one that is in line with your preferred style or fits well with the other decor elements in your room will make a big difference in how you feel about the nursery as you spend time there.
As your child gets older cribs that are designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds can be used for a long time providing you with an advantage over time. They are also typically less expensive than full-size beds, and are able to be sold or given to a family member when your child no longer needs them.
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 easier to transform them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand a lot of use and are sturdy. Some even last several children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives and are therefore more maneuverable when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress's height. They can wear out faster and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattress are designed to be used by babies and toddlers. One side is gentler for infants, while the other side is firmer for toddlers. They are generally more secure than foam mattresses and may be more comfortable to older babies who don't like the sagging feeling of foam. These mattresses are also often cheaper than innerspring alternatives.