Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated sleeping space for infants to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also encourages a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also provide more flexibility than other options such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with modern or traditional style, be sure to verify that it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Then consider other features to find the perfect crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent your baby's safety is of paramount importance. You want your child to rest peacefully in a secure environment and free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It's important to choose a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are a variety of things to look out for, including slat spacing that isn't more than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's legs and arms aren't entangled. Also, a mattress with an incredibly firm and comfortable fit with no drop sides; stable cribs with no wobbling parts and detailed instructions on assembly. Avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streams or pads, as they can present a strangulation risk for your baby.
Look for cribs painted with low-VOC paint, a safer option to traditional varnishes or glues that release harmful chemicals. Similarly, search for a mattress that is made of non-toxic materials such as cotton and organic foam.
Select a crib that does not have decorative embellishments or cutouts. They can cause injury should your child pick them up or gets their fingers stuck in them. It is also important to ensure that the mattress cover is secure and securely fit to the frame of the crib and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and the frame. Avoid placing blankets, pillows or sheepskins, as well as similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. They can increase the risk for your baby to develop SIDS. Mobiles can also be a risk, since they could be tipped over onto the baby, causing suffocation. It is recommended to avoid using a mobile at all costs and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This will be better for your baby's health as well as let you monitor your little one while they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most essential things your baby will require is a safe place to sleep. homepage are a wonderful place for your baby's sleep, especially when you are working on other household chores.
You'll likely find cribs in your local home goods store or nursery. These types of establishments must adhere to strict guidelines established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best place to start your search for a high-quality crib. If you're planning to purchase a crib for your home, there are several considerations you'll need to make before making your purchase.
Cribs are a fantastic option for newborns, infants and toddlers, providing an incredibly comfortable bed that will last well beyond their initial years of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that let you convert them into toddler beds or full size beds, which will reduce your costs and prolong the life of the crib you purchase.
Another advantage of cribs is their small footprint that makes them suitable for smaller spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some models also include changing stations that is a great option in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer a similar degree of convenience, since they're designed to be lightweight and foldable for easy transport. They are a great choice for taking your baby on a trip or visiting friends and family since they are easy to pack and taken away. However, the light construction of travel cribs may result in less robust construction than standard cribs, which may be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will stand out in a space Look for a crib with a unique style. You may find one with an elegant, minimalist design or one that is made of a material such as bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for a better accessibility. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives but can be a beautiful centerpiece in any nursery.
Other cribs feature traditional designs with elegant curves and molding, reminiscent of furniture from the past. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with beautiful details. These are excellent options to consider if you're in search of the perfect crib that will be an important family heirloom in the future. They can also go well with any design.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular style. It has smooth, straight lines with an ethereal, bare-wood look. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. These cribs are perfect for a modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished 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. These cribs have drawers that can be used to store wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs are curved or have designs on the side which can be used to create an illusion of a canopy. They can bring a touch of class to any nursery and are an excellent method to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Make sure you use a fabrics that are not too long and is securely attached to your crib. This will ensure your child isn't able to reach out and grab the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler's crib, an adult daybed or a large bed can be incredibly useful for any family. This feature can save you money purchasing four separate beds over the development of your child as well as save space in the nursery. A lot of convertible cribs are also equipped with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them easy to assemble and use at any time.
Another aspect to be aware of while shopping for cribs is that a lot of models have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This will allow you to modify the appearance and function of your crib. It can be especially useful when you have only a tiny or limited amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels, which can be very helpful if you want to move the bed for cleaning or any other reason.
Convertible cribs are generally constructed from durable, non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have modern or classic designs that can be adapted to a wide variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made from wood, whereas others can be made from stainless steel painted or metal. Certain brands are committed to sustainable development, offering eco-friendly cribs that are made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful chemicals do not leach into the environment.
Selecting the ideal convertible crib for your baby will require some thought and research however, it's an important decision that can last for a long time. Consider your options and compare prices as well as delivery times and other aspects before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is a large piece of furniture that will have a major impact on the look and feel of the nursery of your baby. It is essential to choose a crib that matches your style and will work well with the decor of your room. This can make a significant difference in how you feel about your nursery.
As your child ages, cribs designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds are still useful, giving you the long-term benefits. They're also generally less expensive than full-size beds, and can be sold or given to a relative when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs can also be easily maintained since the majority of components can be removed and cleaned, and some have a conversion set that allows you to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand a lot of use and are durable. Some even last through many children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives which makes them more convenient to move when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. They may wear out faster and need to be replaced sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattresses are designed to be used by infants and toddlers. One side is soft for the infants while the other side is more firm for toddlers. They're generally safer than foam mattresses, and are more comfortable for older infants who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They are also typically cheaper than innerspring ones.
