Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer infants a dedicated sleep space to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular sleeping routine. Baby beds are also more flexible than other options, like bassinets.
Whether you go for a modern design or a traditional style, be sure to verify that it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals. Consider other options to choose the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your baby's safety is of paramount importance. You want your child to rest comfortably in a safe environment free of hazards such as sharp edges or splinters. It's important to choose a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
These include slat spacing not more than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's head, arms or legs from becoming trapped and a mattress that is firm and snug-fitting with no drop sides; a stable crib with no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, like bumper streamers or pads, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Look for cribs painted with low-VOC varnish, which is an alternative to traditional varnishes or glues which release harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials such as organic foam and cotton.
Pick a crib with no ornaments or cutouts. These can cause injury if your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Make sure the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. Avoid placing blankets, pillows or sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed animals in the crib. They can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a hazard, as they can be tipped over onto the baby and cause the baby to suffocate. It is recommended to choose an infant crib with a mesh structure that is breathable instead of a mobile. This is better for your baby's health as well as allow you to keep an eye on your little one as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure place for your baby's sleep is one of the most essential things you'll need. Cribs are a great place for your baby to relax, which can be particularly helpful when you're busy tending to other household chores or activities.
You'll likely find cribs at your local home goods store or nursery. Baby Cot of establishments have to comply with strict regulations that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are generally the best place to begin your search for a top quality crib. You'll have to consider a variety of aspects before purchasing the crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping space for toddlers, infants and babies that last well beyond the initial months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features which allow you to transform the crib into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. This will help you save money on your purchase and extend its life.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their compact footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some models come with a changing table, which can be useful if your nursery space is restricted in space.
Travel cribs are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to transport. This makes them an excellent option for traveling with your child or visiting family and friends, as you can easily pack up the crib within a matter of minutes prior to leaving. However, the light construction of travel cribs may lead to less sturdy construction than standard cribs which could be an issue for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that can stand out in a room choose a crib with unique styling. You can find one that features an elegant, minimalist design or one that is made of a material like glass or bamboo and has clear sides for a better accessibility. They are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives, but they can add a beautiful centerpiece to any nursery.
Other cribs have traditional designs with elegant curves and moldings. They also have a look that is reminiscent of heirloom pieces. They can also be quite intricate and are often handcrafted with stunning details. They are a great option if you want a crib that will become a favorite piece of furniture for your family over time and can be paired with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is another popular design. It has straight, smooth lines and the light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty the wood to be seen. These cribs are ideal 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. These models typically come with drawers underneath to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs have curving sides or designs that can be used as an umbrella. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery, and help keep your baby comfy and cool while they sleep. Be sure, however, that the fabric you choose to use isn't too long, or that it is securely connected to the crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that transforms into a toddler bed, daybed and full-size bed is a fantastic investment for any family. This feature lets you save money as you do not have to purchase four separate beds as your child grows, and also frees up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them simple to set up 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 will allow you to customize the look and function of your crib, and can be particularly beneficial in the case of the smallest or most limited storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels that are extremely useful when you need to move the bed around for cleaning or for any other reason.
Convertible cribs typically are made of durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have an elegant or contemporary design that can suit a wide range of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood and others are made from metal or painted steel. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins leak into the environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your nursery requires some time and thought, but it is an important choice that could last for years to come. Be sure to consider your options carefully and be sure to evaluate prices, delivery and the time of setup, as well as other factors to make the best decision for your family.
5. Value
The crib is a huge piece of furniture that can make a significant impact on the look and feel of your baby's nursery. Because of that, choosing one that is in line with your preferred style or fits well with the rest of your room decor can make a huge impact on how you feel about the nursery as you are there.
As your child ages, cribs designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds can be used for a long time providing you with the long-term benefits. They're also generally less expensive than larger beds and can be sold or given to a relative when your child no more requires them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, as the majority of the parts are easily removed and cleaned and many have a conversion kit that allows you to turn them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand frequent use and are durable. Some can even last for several children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring options which makes them easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. They are more likely to wear out and need replacement sooner than innerspring mattress.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning to toddlerhood, having one side that is softer for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They are typically more secure than foam mattresses, and may be more comfortable to older babies who don't like the sagging feel of foam. These mattresses are often cheaper than innerspring alternatives.