Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated sleeping area for infants to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also offer more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with a modern design or a more traditional design ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure that it meets the highest safety standards and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Consider other features to determine the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent to a child, the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your child to rest peacefully in an environment free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. Mini Cot Bed that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are a variety of things to look out for such as slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inch so your baby's legs or arms aren't entangled. Also, a mattress with a firm, snug fit; no drop sides; stable cribs without wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. You should also avoid bells and whistles, like bumper streams or pads, as they could cause strangulation for your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC paint, an alternative than traditional glues or varnishes which emit harmful chemicals. In addition, you should look for a mattress made of non-toxic materials like organic cotton and foam.
Lastly, choose a crib free of ornaments and cutouts, which can pose injury risks when your child is able to grab them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Make sure that the mattress cover is tightly fitted to the frame of the crib and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame. Avoid putting pillows, blankets or sheepskins or pillow-like stuffed animals in the crib. These can increase the risk for your baby to develop SIDS. Mobiles can also be a hazard, as they can be pushed down on the baby and cause suffocation. It is recommended to choose a mesh crib mobile that is breathable, instead of a mobile. This is more beneficial for your baby's health and allow you to keep an eye on your baby as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby to sleep is one of the most essential things you will need. Cribs are a wonderful place for your baby to sleep especially when you are engaged in other household chores.
You'll probably find cribs at your local home goods store or nursery. These types of establishments must comply with strict regulations set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are usually the best place to begin your search for a high-quality crib. If you're looking to purchase a crib for your home, there are many factors to take into consideration prior to purchasing.
Cribs provide a comfy sleeping space for toddlers, infants and babies that last beyond their first few months of life. Many cribs have convertible features that allow you to transform them into toddler beds or full-size beds, which will reduce your costs and prolong the life of your crib purchase.
Another advantage of cribs is their compact footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models come with a changing table, which is useful if your nursery is limited in space.
They are also lightweight and foldable, making them simple to move. They're a great option for taking your baby on a trip or visiting friends and family, as they are easy to pack up before you leave. However, the lightweight construction of cribs for travel can lead to less sturdy construction than standard cribs, which may be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with an original design if you want it to stand out. You can find one with a sleek, minimalist design or one that is made of a material like glass or bamboo and has clear sides for easy access. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives however, they can make a beautiful accent to any nursery.
Other cribs offer traditional designs with elegant curves and molding, reminiscent of antique furniture. They can be very extravagant, and are generally handcrafted with beautiful details. These are excellent options to consider if you're in search of an infant crib that will become a family heirloom over time. They also work well with any style.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian crib with smooth straight lines and a light, naked wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are perfect for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave them unfinished to complement your decor.
Cribs that combine the function of a changing table could make it much easier to change your baby, particularly when they're younger and have trouble sitting up on their own. These models have drawers to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
Some cribs are curving or have designs on the side that can be used to create a canopy effect. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are an excellent method to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. Be sure to use fabrics that aren't too long and is tightly anchored to your 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 crib, 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 separate 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.
When looking for a brand new crib, keep in mind that many models have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This will allow you to modify the appearance and function of your crib. It can be especially useful when you have only a tiny or limited amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels that can be incredibly useful when you need to move the bed for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are constructed from durable, non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the rigorous safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs also feature modern or classic designs that can suit a wide selection of nursery décor. Some cribs are made of wood, while others may be constructed of stainless steel painted or metal. Certain brands are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly cribs made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful chemicals do not leach into the environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your child will require some time and effort, but it is an important choice that could last for years to come. Compare your options and compare prices, delivery times, and other factors before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it can have a significant impact on the overall design and feel of the room. It is essential to choose the crib that is in line with your style or goes perfectly with your decor. This can make a big difference in the way you feel about your nursery.
As your child grows older cribs that are designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds are still useful and provide you with a long-term benefit. They're also generally less costly than full-size beds, and can be traded in or donated to a friend when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs can also be easily maintained since the majority of parts can be taken off and cleaned, and many have a conversion set that makes it easy to convert them into the right size bed for your baby. Wood cribs are especially sturdy and can withstand rigors of frequent use, with some even lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives and are therefore easier to maneuver when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress's height. They may wear out faster and need replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning through toddlerhood, with one side that is softer for infants and a firmer side for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable for older children who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They are also typically cheaper than innerspring ones.