Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide a dedicated sleeping area for infants to reduce the risk 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 modern or traditional one, make certain to confirm that it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Also, consider other features to determine the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As parents to a child, the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your baby to rest peacefully in a safe and secure space and free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It is essential to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are a variety of things to look out for such as slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's legs or arms aren't entangled. Also a mattress that is a firm and snug fit and no drop sides stable cribs without wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. Beware of any bells or whistles, such as bumper pads and streamers which could strangle your baby.
Look for cribs with low-VOC, a safer option in comparison to conventional glues or varnishes which release harmful chemicals. Choose mattresses made of non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Lastly, choose a crib that is free of decorative ornaments and cutouts, which could be a risk of injury when your child grasps them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover is tightly fitted to the crib frame and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame. Avoid putting pillows, blankets or sheepskins or pillow-like stuffed animals in the crib. They can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles are also dangerous, as they could be pulled towards the baby and cause them to suffocate. You should choose a crib mattress made of mesh that is breathable instead of a mobile. This is better for the health of your baby and lets you supervise them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby to rest is among the most essential things you'll require. Cribs are an excellent place for your baby to rest, especially when you are busy with other household chores.
You can find cribs at your local nursery or at a home goods store. These types of establishments must comply with strict regulations established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are generally the best place to start your search for a top quality crib. If you're planning to purchase a crib for your home, there are many things to consider before purchasing.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and babies that last well beyond the initial months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to transform cribs into toddler beds or full size beds, which can reduce your costs and prolong the lifespan of your crib purchase.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their compact footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some cribs also have changing stations that could be useful when you have a small space in your nursery.
Travel cribs provide a similar degree of convenience, since they're designed to be lightweight and easily foldable for transport. This makes them an excellent option for traveling with your child, or when visiting family and friends because you can easily take the crib down in a few minutes before leaving. The light construction may make for a less sturdy crib than the standard ones. This could be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has a unique design if you want it to stand out. You may find one that features sleek, minimalist designs or one that is made of a material like bamboo or glass and has clear sides for easy access. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives however they can be a stunning centerpiece in any nursery.
Some cribs feature traditional designs with graceful curves and moldings. They also have a look that is reminiscent of antique pieces. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with gorgeous details. They are an excellent choice to consider if you're in search of an infant crib that will become an heirloom for your family over time. They also work well with any design.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular design. It has straight lines that are smooth and straight with an ethereal, bare-wood look. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. These cribs are perfect for a modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to complement your decor.
They can also serve as a changing table, making it easier to change your baby. This is especially true for infants who are young and may have trouble sitting up. These cribs have drawers that can be used to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
Some cribs are curving or have designs on the sides which can be used to create an effect of canopy. They can add a touch of elegant to any nursery and keep your baby comfortable and cool while they sleep. However, be sure that the fabric you choose to use is not too long or that it's firmly fixed to the crib. This will ensure your child can't reach out and grasp the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed, or a full-size bed can be extremely useful for any family. This feature allows you to save money since you don't have to buy four separate beds as your child grows and also frees up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with simple-to-store conversion kits, making it easy to utilize them as required.
When looking for Baby beds that you want to buy, keep in mind that most cribs include additional features like adjustable heights for the mattress or drawers. This lets you customize your crib's look and functionality. It is especially useful if your nursery has limited storage space. Some cribs even have wheels that can be incredibly helpful if you need to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made with sturdy, non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet stringent safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature a classic or contemporary design that will suit a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed from wood as well as others made from steel or painted. Certain brands are even committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins leach into the environment.
It will require some time and research to choose the most suitable convertible crib for your nursery. But, it's an investment that will last for many years. Compare your options and compare prices and delivery times as well as other factors before making a decision.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in your baby's nursery, and it can have a significant impact on the overall appearance and feel of the room. It is important to choose a crib that fits your style or will go perfectly with your decor. This can make a big difference in how you feel about your nursery.
Similar to cribs that are designed to transform into toddler beds or daybeds can be used as your child grows, providing you value over the long term. They are also less costly than a full-size bed and can be lent or sold to a relative once your child no longer has need.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain since the majority of the parts can be cleaned and removed and the majority come with a conversion kit that makes it easy to transform them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand frequent use and are sturdy. Some even last through several children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives which makes them easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, they can get worn out faster and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning through toddlerhood, with one side that is softer for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They are usually more secure than foam mattresses, and may be more comfortable for older children who don't like the sagging sensation of foam. They are usually cheaper than innerspring alternatives.