Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide infants with an area for sleeping that is specifically designed to decrease the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular sleep routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, including bassinets.
If you opt for a modern style or a more traditional style ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure it is in compliance with the highest safety standards and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Then consider other features to determine the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your baby's safety is of paramount importance. You want your baby to sleep peacefully in a safe environment that is free of dangers such as sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are a variety of things to consider in a mattress, such as slat spacing which isn't more than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's arms or legs aren't entangled. Also Cot Bed should look for a mattress that has a firm and snug fit with no drop sides; stable cribs with no wobbling parts and detailed instructions on assembly. Beware of any bells or whistles, such as bumper pads and streamers which can strangle your baby.
Find a crib that has been painted with low-VOC paints that is a safer choice to glues and varnishes that release harmful chemicals into the air. Also, search for a mattress that is made with non-toxic materials, such as cotton and organic foam.
Select a crib that does not have ornaments or cutouts. They could cause injuries 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 tightly attached to the frame of your crib, and that there aren't any gaps between the frame and the mattress. Avoid putting pillows, blankets, sheepskins, or pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. These can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a hazard, as they can be pushed down on the baby and cause death. You should opt for a crib mattress made of mesh that is breathable rather than a mobile. This is better for the health of your baby and allows you to watch over them while they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most essential things your baby will need is an area that is safe to sleep in. Cribs are an excellent place for your baby to rest, especially when you are engaged in other household chores.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or at the home goods store. These types of establishments must adhere to strict guidelines established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are usually the best place to begin your search for a high-quality crib. You'll have to take into consideration several aspects before purchasing the crib.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs have convertible features that let you convert cribs into toddler beds or full size beds, which will save you money and extend the life of your crib purchase.
The small size of cribs makes them perfect for small spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models come with a changing table, which can be useful if your nursery is restricted in space.
Travel cribs offer the same degree of convenience, since they're designed to be lightweight and foldable to make it easy to transport. They're a great option for traveling with your baby or visiting relatives and friends, as they can be easily packed and taken away. However, the lightweight construction of travel cribs can also result in less robust construction than standard cribs, which may be an issue for some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with distinctive design if want it to stand out. It could be one with sleek, minimalist designs or one that is made of a material like bamboo or glass and has clear sides for easy access. These are often more expensive than solid wood alternatives, but they can add an appealing focal point to any nursery.
Other cribs offer a more traditional look with graceful curves and moldings, reminiscent of furniture from the past. They can also be quite elaborate and are typically handcrafted with beautiful details. They are a great option if you're looking for a crib that can become an important family heirloom in the future. They can also be paired with any design.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian crib with smooth straight lines and a light, naked wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. They're an excellent fit to any modern or contemporary nursery, and you can easily paint them or leave them unpainted to match your decor.
They can also serve as a changing table making it easier to change your child. This is especially important for babies who are still young and may have trouble sitting up. cot beds have drawers beneath to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
Some cribs have curving sides or designs that can be used as a canopy. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are a fantastic way to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. Be sure, however, that the fabric you choose is not too long or is securely attached to the crib. This will prevent your child from reaching out to grab the fabric or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler's bed a daybed, or a full-size bed can be incredibly useful for any family. This feature can save you money purchasing four separate beds during your child's growth and will also free up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs also come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them easy to assemble and use at any time.
When looking for a brand crib for your child, bear in mind that most cribs come with additional features like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to alter the appearance and function of your crib. It's especially beneficial when your nursery is limited in storage space. Some cribs come with wheels that are extremely useful when you need to move the bed for cleaning or any other reason.
Convertible cribs are generally constructed from durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have a contemporary or classic design that will fit into a broad range of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood as well as others made from steel or painted. Certain brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leach into the environment.
It will require some time and research to select the ideal convertible crib for your nursery. But, it's a decision that will last for many years. Consider your options and evaluate the prices as well as delivery times and other aspects before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby and has a big impact on the overall design and feel of the space. It is crucial to select the crib that is in line with your style or goes well with your room decor. This can make a big difference in how you feel about your nursery.
As your child gets older, cribs designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds will continue to be useful, giving you a long-term benefit. 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 easy to maintain since the majority of the components can be cleaned and removed, and most have an conversion kit that makes it easier to convert them into the proper size bed for your child. Wood cribs are incredibly robust and can withstand the rigors of frequent use, with some last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and are therefore more maneuverable when changing sheets or altering the mattress height. They may wear out faster and need to be replaced earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning of toddlerhood, with the soft side for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They are generally more secure than foam mattresses, and may be more comfortable for older children who don't want the sagging feeling of foam. These mattresses are often more affordable than innerspring alternatives.