Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib offers a dedicated sleeping area for infants to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also encourages a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options such as bassinets.
Whether you go for an innovative design or a traditional style, be sure to verify that it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals. Be aware of other aspects when selecting the crib that is suitable for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your child to rest peacefully in a secure environment, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are many things to consider such as slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's legs or arms do not get caught. Also a mattress that is a firm and snug fit with no drop sides; stable cribs without wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. You should also avoid bells and whistles, like bumper streams or pads, as they could cause strangulation for your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC paint, an alternative than traditional glues or varnishes which release harmful chemicals. Also, look for a mattress made using non-toxic materials, such as organic cotton and foam.
Pick a crib with no decorative embellishments or cutouts. They can cause injury when your child grabs them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover fits tightly to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame. You should also avoid putting pillows comforters, quilts and sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib, as these can increase your baby's risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also be a danger, since they could be pushed down on the baby and cause death. You should opt for a mesh crib mobile that is breathable instead of a mobile. This is more beneficial for your baby's health as well as allow you to keep an eye on your child as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby to rest 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 with other household chores or activities.
You'll likely find cribs in your local nursery or home goods store. These establishments must adhere to strict regulations set out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal place to start your search for a quality crib. You'll have to consider a variety of aspects prior to purchasing a crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and babies that last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to convert them into toddler beds or full size beds, which will reduce your costs and prolong the life of your crib purchase.
The compact size of cribs makes them ideal for small spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some models also include changing stations that could be useful in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs are also lightweight and foldable, making them simple to move. This makes them an excellent option for traveling with your child, or when visiting family and friends since you can take the crib down in a few minutes before leaving. However, the light construction of travel cribs may lead to less sturdy construction than standard models and could pose a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with an original design if you want it to stand out. You can find a crib with an elegant, minimalist design or made from something like glass or bamboo. It may also feature transparent sides for easy viewing. Best cot for newborn are often more expensive than their solid wood counterparts however they can be an attractive focal point to any nursery.
Some cribs have a more traditional look with graceful curves and molding, which is reminiscent of antique furniture. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with beautiful details. These are excellent options when you are looking for a crib that can become a beloved piece of family furniture over time and will work well with any style.
Another popular style is a Scandinavian crib with straight lines that are smooth and a light, bare wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are ideal for an modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood bare to complement your decor.
Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table could make it much easier to change your baby, particularly when they're young and have trouble sitting up on their own. These cribs come with drawers to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as an umbrella. 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 fabric that is not too long and that is firmly attached to your crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be transformed 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 during 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 at any time.
When you are looking for a new crib, keep in mind that most cribs include additional features such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This lets you customize the appearance and function of your crib. It's especially beneficial in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs even have wheels, which can be incredibly useful when you need to move the bed around to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made of durable, non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. Many models have an elegant or contemporary design that can fit into the various styles of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood, while others may be constructed of stainless steel or painted metal. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs that use GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
The best convertible crib for your child will take some time and thought however, it's an important choice that could last for a long time. Consider your options carefully and make sure you look at prices, delivery costs, time to set up, among other things 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 can have a significant impact on the overall design and feel of the space. It is crucial to select a crib that matches your style and will work well with the decor of your room. This can make a significant difference in the way you feel about your nursery.
As your child gets older, cribs 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 friend when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs are also easily maintained, since most parts can be removed, cleaned, and many come with a conversion set that allows you to transform them into the ideal size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely durable and can withstand the demands of daily use, with some even last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and are 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 mattresses are designed to be used for babies and toddlers. One side is soft for the infants while the other is more rigid for toddlers. They're generally safer than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older children who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. They're typically more affordable than innerspring alternatives.