Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer infants a dedicated sleep space to lower the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, like bassinets.
If you decide to go with a modern style or a more traditional design ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure that it is in compliance with the highest safety standards and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Consider other features when choosing the crib that is suitable for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your child's safety is of paramount importance. You want your child to sleep at ease in a space free of hazards such as sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are many things to look out for, including slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inches to ensure your baby's legs and arms don't get trapped. Also you should look for a mattress that has a firm, snug fit with no drop sides; stable cribs with no wobbling parts and detailed instructions on assembly. Avoid using any bells or whistles like bumper pads or streamers that can strangle your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC, which is a safer alternative to traditional varnishes or glues which emit harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials such as organic foam and cotton.
Lastly, choose a crib that is free of decorative ornaments and cutouts, which can be a risk of injury in the event that your child is able to grab them or gets his or her 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 cot bed sales , pillows, sheepskins, or similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. These can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also be a risk, since they could be pushed down on the baby and cause suffocation. You should opt for an infant crib with a mesh structure that is breathable rather than mobiles. 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 needs is an area that is safe to sleep in. Cribs are a great place for your little one to relax, which can be particularly useful when you're busy tending to other household chores or activities.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or home goods store. These types of establishments have to adhere to strict guidelines established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are usually the best place to start your search for a top quality crib. You'll need be aware of a number of aspects before purchasing a crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping space for toddlers, infants and babies that last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to convert the crib into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. This can save you money on your purchase and extend the life of your crib.
The small size of cribs makes them perfect for small spaces like lofts or apartments. Some models also come with a changing station that can be helpful in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer a similar degree of convenience, since they're designed to be light and foldable to make it easy to transport. This makes them an ideal option for traveling with your child, or when visiting family and friends, as you can easily take the crib down in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the lightweight design of travel cribs can also cause less durable construction than standard models which could be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will make a statement in a room choose a crib with a unique style. There are cribs with an elegant, minimalist design or made from materials like bamboo or glass. It could also have clear sides that allow for easy access to. They are generally more expensive than solid wood alternatives, but can be a beautiful accent piece for any nursery.
Other cribs have an older style with graceful curves and moldings, as well as a look that is reminiscent of antique pieces. They can also be intricate and are often handcrafted with gorgeous details. These are excellent options for an item that will be a beloved piece of furniture for your family over time and will work well with any style.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian-style crib with smooth straight lines and a light, naked wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are ideal for an modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave them 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 babies who are still young and have trouble sitting up. These cribs come with drawers to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
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 while they sleep. Make sure to choose a fabrics that are not too long and tightly anchored to your crib. This will ensure your child can't reach out and grab the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that transforms into a toddler bed, daybed and full-size bed is an excellent investment for any family. This feature will help you save money by not purchasing four separate beds during your child's development and also save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that store easily, making them simple to set up and use at any time.
Another thing to keep in mind when shopping for a crib is that many cribs have additional features, like drawers or adjustable mattress heights. This lets you customize the appearance and function of your crib. It's especially beneficial when your nursery is limited in storage space. Some cribs have wheels which can be extremely helpful if you need to move the bed to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made of durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the strict safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have a contemporary or classic design that can be adapted to a wide selection of nursery décor. Some cribs are made of wood, while others could be made from stainless steel painted or metal. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
The best convertible crib for your nursery will require some thought and research however it is an important decision that can be used for many years to come. Be sure to consider your options carefully, and be sure to look at prices, delivery costs, time to set up, among other things to make the best choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is a huge piece of furniture that will make a significant impact on the design and feel of the nursery of your baby. It is essential to choose a crib that fits your style or goes perfectly with your decor. This can make a significant difference in the way you feel about your nursery.
As your child gets older, cribs designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds can be used for a long time, giving you the long-term benefits. They are also typically less expensive than larger beds and can be traded in or donated to a relative when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, since most of the components are easily removed and cleaned and many come with an adapter kit that allows you to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely robust and can withstand the stress of regular use, with some even last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and are easier to maneuver when changing sheets or altering the mattress's height. However, they could get worn out faster 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 one side that is softer for infants and a more firm side for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses, and are more comfortable for older infants who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They're also generally cheaper than innerspring alternatives.