Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated baby's sleeping space to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, like bassinets.
If you choose modern or traditional one, make sure to verify that it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposures to toxic chemicals. Consider other features to determine the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As parents you are responsible for the safety of your baby is your top concern. You want your child to sleep peacefully in a safe and secure space that is free of dangers such as sharp edges or splinters. It is essential to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are numerous things to look out for in a mattress, such as slat spacing which is not more than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's legs or arms don't get trapped. Also a mattress that is a firm and snug fit; no drop sides; stable cribs without wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, like bumper streams or pads, as they could cause strangulation for your baby.
Look for cribs with low-VOC paint, an alternative to traditional varnishes or glues which emit harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials such as organic foam and cotton.
Select a crib that does not have decorative embellishments or cutouts. These can cause injury when your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. You should also check that the mattress cover is secure and tightly attached to the frame of your crib, and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress and the frame. Also, you should avoid putting pillows comforters, quilts pillows, sheepskins or similar stuffed toys in the crib as these can increase the risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a risk, since they could be pulled down onto the baby and cause suffocation. You should opt for a crib mattress made of mesh that is breathable rather than a mobile. This is healthier for the health of your baby and allows you to watch over them while they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most important things your baby needs is a secure place to sleep. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your baby to rest, which can be particularly helpful when you're busy with other household chores or other activities.
You can find cribs at your local nursery or at the home goods store. These types of establishments have to adhere to strict guidelines set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are usually the best place to start your search for a quality crib. If you're planning to purchase a crib for your home, there are a few factors to take into consideration prior to purchasing.
Cribs provide a comfy sleeping space for toddlers, infants and newborns that will last well beyond the initial months of life. Many models feature convertible features that allow you to transform cribs into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can help you save money and extend the lifespan of the crib you purchase.
Another advantage of cribs is their compact footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some cribs come with an adjustable table, which can be beneficial if your nursery is restricted in space.
Travel cribs offer a similar level of comfort, since they're designed to be light and foldable to make it easy to transport. This makes them an excellent choice when traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family because you can easily take the crib down within a matter of minutes prior to leaving. The crib's lightweight construction could make for a less sturdy crib than the standard ones. This could be a concern to some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that can make a statement in a room choose a crib with a unique style. You can find a crib with sleek, minimalist style or made of something like bamboo or glass. It could also have clear sides that allow for easy observation. These are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however they can be a stunning focal piece in any nursery.
Some cribs feature an older style with elegant curves, moldings and the look of antique pieces. They can be extremely extravagant, and are typically made by hand with exquisite details. These are excellent options when 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 popular style is a Scandinavian crib with smooth straight lines and a light, unfinished wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. They're great for modern or contemporary nursery and you can easily paint them or leave them unpainted to match your decor.
Cribs that can serve as a combination of a changing table can make it much easier to change your baby, particularly when they're younger and aren't able to sit on their own. These models have drawers for storing wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs are curving or have designs on the side that can be used to create an effect of canopy. They can provide a touch of luxury to any nursery and are a great method to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. However, be sure that the fabric you choose isn't too long or that it's firmly connected to the crib. This will prevent your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can convert 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 as you do not have to buy four beds as your child grows and also saves space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it easy to utilize them as needed.
Another aspect to be aware of while shopping for cribs is that a lot of cribs come with additional features, such as drawers or adjustable mattress heights. This lets you customize the look and functionality of your crib. It is especially useful when your nursery is limited in storage space. Some cribs come with wheels that are extremely useful when you need to move the bed around for cleaning or any other reason.
Convertible cribs are typically made with sturdy, 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 feature modern or classic designs that will suit different styles of nursery décor. Some cribs are made of wood, whereas others can be constructed from metal or painted stainless steel. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
It takes some research and thought to choose the best convertible crib for your nursery. However, it is a decision that will last for many years. Compare top ranked cribs and compare prices and delivery times as well as other aspects before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is a large piece of furniture that will have a major impact on the design and feel of the nursery of your baby. Therefore, selecting one that matches your preference in style or one that works well with the rest of your room decor can make a huge difference in how you feel about the nursery as you are there.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to be converted into daybeds for toddlers or toddlers extend their utility as your child grows, providing you value over the long term. They're also generally less expensive than larger beds and can be sold or given to a family member when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, since most of the components can be cleaned and removed, and most have a conversion kit that makes it easier to turn them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely durable and can withstand the stress of regular use, with some even lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives, making them easier to move around when changing sheets or altering mattress height. However, they can wear out more quickly and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called two-stage or dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning through toddlerhood, with a side that's softer for infants and a firmer side for toddlers. They're generally safer than foam mattresses and can be more comfortable for older infants who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. These mattresses are also often more affordable than innerspring options.