Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide infants with a dedicated sleep space to decrease the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also offer more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you opt for a modern design or a more traditional design ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure it adheres to the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Also, consider other options to choose the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your child's safety is of paramount importance. You want your child to rest at ease in a space 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) strict standards.
These include slat spacing not more than 2 3/8 inches to avoid your baby's legs, arms or head from getting stuck; mattresses that are well-made and comfortable; no drop sides; a solid crib that has no wobbling parts and clear assembly instructions. Avoid using any bells or whistles such as bumper pads and streamers which could strangle your baby.
Look for cribs painted with low-VOC, which is a safer alternative than traditional glues or varnishes that release harmful chemicals. Look for mattresses made from non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Select a crib that does not have decorative ornaments or cutouts. These can cause injury if your child grabs them or gets their fingers stuck in them. You should also check that the mattress cover is secure and securely attached to the frame of your crib, and that there aren't gaps between the frame and the mattress. Avoid putting blankets, pillows or sheepskins or pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. They can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles are also risky, since they could fall towards the baby and cause them to choke. In the ideal scenario, you should stay clear of a mobile completely and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is better for the health of your baby and lets you supervise them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most essential things your baby needs is a secure place to sleep. Cribs are a great place for your baby to relax, which can be especially useful when you're juggling other household chores or activities.
You'll likely find cribs at your local home goods store or nursery. They must follow strict guidelines set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the best location to start your search for a high-quality crib. You'll need be aware of a number of aspects before purchasing a crib.
Cribs are a great option for newborns, infants and toddlers, offering a comfortable sleeping area that lasts well beyond their first few years of existence. Many cribs have convertible features that allow you to convert them into toddler beds or full-size beds, which will save you money and extend the life of the crib you purchase.
The compact size of cribs makes them ideal for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. top ranked cribs include an area for changing which is a great option when you have a small space in your nursery.
They are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to carry around. They're a great option to travel with your baby or visiting friends and family since they can be easily packed into a suitcase before you leave. The lightweight construction can also make for a less sturdy crib than the standard ones. This may be a concern to some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has a unique design if you want it to stand out. You can find a crib with an elegant, minimalist design or made from materials like bamboo or glass. It may also feature clear sides to allow for easy observation. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives however they can be a stunning focal piece in any nursery.
Some cribs have traditional designs with graceful curves and molding, which is reminiscent of heirloom furniture. They can also be elaborate and are typically handcrafted with beautiful details. These are excellent options to consider if you're in search of the perfect crib that will be a family heirloom over time. They also work well with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular style. It features smooth, straight lines with a light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty the wood to shine through. They're great for any modern or contemporary nursery, and you can paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
These cribs can be used as a changing table making it easier to change your baby. This is particularly true for babies who are still young and have difficulty sitting up. These cribs have drawers that can be used for storing wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs have curved sides or designs that can be used as a canopy. These can bring a touch of class to any nursery and are an excellent way to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Be sure, however, that the fabric you choose to use isn't too long or that it's firmly fixed 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 bed, daybed, and full-size beds is a great investment for any family. This feature can save you money purchasing four separate beds over your child's development and also save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it simple to use them when required.
Another aspect to be aware of when shopping for a crib is that many cribs come with additional features, like drawers or adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to customize the look and function of your crib. It can be especially useful when you have only a tiny or limited storage space in your nursery. Some cribs even have wheels, which can be incredibly useful when you need to move the bed to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made with durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby and comply with the strict safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs also feature an elegant or contemporary design that can be adapted to a wide selection of nursery décor. Some cribs are constructed from wood, while others are fabricated from steel or painted. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leach into the environment.
Selecting the ideal convertible crib for your baby will require some time and thought however it is an important decision that can be used for many years to come. Look at your options and compare the prices, delivery times, and other aspects before making a decision.
5. Value
The crib is the most important piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it has a major impact on the overall appearance and feel of the space. This is why choosing one that matches your preferred style or one that works well with the rest of your room's decor can make a huge difference in how you feel about the nursery when you are there.
As your child ages cribs that can be converted into daybeds or toddler beds are still useful and provide you with the long-term benefits. They are also typically less expensive than larger beds and can be sold or given to a family member when your child no more requires them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, since most of the components are easily removed and cleaned, and most have a conversion kit that allows you to turn them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely sturdy and can withstand demands of daily use, with some even lasting through several children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring options which makes them more convenient to move when changing sheets or adjusting mattress height. However, they may be more worn out and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning through toddlerhood, with the soft side for infants and a more firm side for toddlers. They are usually more secure than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable for older children who don't like the sagging sensation of foam. These mattresses are often cheaper than innerspring alternatives.