Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide a dedicated baby's sleeping space to reduce the risk Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also helps to establish a regular sleep routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, like bassinets.
Whether you go for a modern design or a traditional style, be sure to verify that it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals. Consider other features when choosing the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As parents you are responsible for the safety of your baby is of paramount importance. You want your child to sleep soundly in a safe environment and free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It is essential to select a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
This includes slat spacing that is no wider than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's head, arms or legs from becoming caught and an appropriate mattress that is comfortable and firm with no drop sides; a sturdy crib that is not prone to wobbling and clear assembly instructions. Also, avoid bells and whistles, for example bumper streamers or pads, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Choose a crib that is coated with low-VOC paints that is a safer choice to traditional varnishes and glues which release harmful chemicals into the air. In addition, you should search for a mattress that is made of non-toxic materials like organic cotton and foam.
Also, select a crib that is free of decorative ornaments and cutouts that could be a risk of injury in the event that your child grasps them or gets their fingers stuck in them. It is also important to ensure that the mattress cover is securely fitted to the crib frame and that there aren't any gaps between the frame and the mattress. You should also avoid putting pillows comforters, quilts pillows, sheepskins or similar stuffed toys in the crib since they could increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also be risky, since they can be pulled down on the baby, causing them to choke. In top rated cots , you should stay clear of a mobile completely and opt for a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is more beneficial for your baby's health as well as allow you to keep an eye on your baby while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure place for your baby to rest is among the most essential things you will need. Cribs provide a convenient spot for your little one to rest, which can be particularly useful when you're juggling other household chores or activities.
You'll likely find cribs in your local home goods store or nursery. These kinds of establishments must follow strict guidelines set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best place to begin your search for a high-quality crib. You'll have to consider a variety of aspects prior to purchasing the crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and babies that last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features, allowing you to convert the crib into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. This will save you money and extend the life of your crib.
Another advantage of cribs is their small footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some cribs also have changing stations that is a great option when you have a small space in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer a similar degree of convenience, since they're designed to be light and easily foldable for transport. This makes them an ideal choice when traveling with your child or visiting family and friends since you can pack up the crib in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the lightweight construction of cribs for travel can result in less robust construction than standard models which could be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
Look for a crib with an original design if you want it to stand out. There are cribs with a minimalist, sleek design or made from something like glass or bamboo. It may also feature clear sides that allow for easy access to. These are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives however, they can be a beautiful centerpiece in any nursery.
Other cribs offer traditional designs with elegant curves and molding, reminiscent of heirloom furniture. They can be quite extravagant, and are typically handcrafted with beautiful details. These are excellent options if you want an item that will be an integral piece of family furniture over time and work with any theme.
Another popular style is a Scandinavian-style crib that has sleek straight lines and a light, naked wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are great for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to complement your decor.
Cribs that combine the function of a changing table could make it easier to change your baby, particularly when they're younger and struggle to sit up on their own. They typically have drawers beneath to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs are bent or have designs on the side which can be used to create an illusion of a canopy. These can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are an excellent option to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Be sure, however, that any fabric you use isn't too long or is securely attached to the crib. This will ensure that your child can't reach out and grab the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler's crib, an adult daybed or a large bed is a great option for any family. This feature can save you money purchasing four separate beds over your child's growth and also save space in the nursery. A lot of convertible cribs are also equipped with conversion kits that store easily, making them easy to assemble and use at any time.
Another thing to keep in mind while shopping for cribs is that a lot of cribs have additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to modify the appearance and function of your crib, and could be especially useful in the case of the smallest or most small amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs are equipped with wheels, which can be incredibly helpful if you need to move the bed to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are constructed from durable, non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature a classic or contemporary design that will suit the various styles of nursery decor. Some cribs are made from wood, while others may be constructed from stainless steel painted or metal. Certain brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs that use GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
It takes some time and effort to choose the best convertible crib for your nursery. However, it's one that will last for many years to come. Look at your options and compare prices, delivery times, and other factors before making a decision.
5. Value
The crib is the largest piece of furniture in your baby's nursery and has a major impact on the overall appearance and feel of the space. It is crucial to select a crib that matches your style or will go perfectly with your decor. This can make a significant 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 long-term value. They are also less expensive than a full-size bed and can be lent or sold to a family member once your child no longer has need of.
Convertible cribs can be easily maintained since the majority of components can be removed and cleaned, and many come with a conversion set that allows you to transform them into the perfect size bed for your baby. Wood cribs are especially robust and can withstand the rigors of frequent use, with some lasting through several children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives, making them easier to move when changing sheets or altering mattress height. However, they can get worn out faster and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as 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 usually more secure than foam mattresses and can be more comfortable for older babies who don't like the sagging feel of foam. They're also generally cheaper than innerspring ones.