Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated sleeping area for infants to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also helps to establish a regular sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options like bassinets.
If you choose an innovative design or a traditional one, make sure to check if it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and reduces exposures to toxic chemicals. Then consider cot sale to determine the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As parents, the safety of your child is your top concern. You want your child to sleep peacefully in an environment free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It is essential to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
This includes slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inches, to avoid your baby's head, arms or legs from becoming trapped in the mattress; an appropriate mattress that is well-made and comfortable; no drop sides; a stable crib that has no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streamers or pads, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Choose a crib that has been coated with low-VOC paints that is a safer choice to traditional glues and varnishes which release harmful chemicals into the air. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Also, select a crib that is devoid of decorative embellishments and cutouts that could pose injury risks if your baby grasps them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Also, make sure that the mattress cover is secure and tightly fitted to the crib frame and that there aren't gaps between the mattress and the frame. Avoid putting pillows, blankets, sheepskins, or pillow-like stuffed animals in the crib. They can increase the risk for your baby to develop SIDS. Mobiles can also pose risky, since they can be pulled towards the baby, causing them to collapse. It is recommended to avoid using a mobile at all costs and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is healthier for the health of your baby and lets you monitor them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most important things your baby will need is an area that is safe to sleep in. Cribs are an excellent place for your baby's sleep especially when you are busy with other household chores.
You'll likely find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These establishments must abide by strict guidelines set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the best location to start your search for a quality crib. You'll have to consider a variety of factors before you buy a crib.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and newborns that will last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs have convertible features, allowing you to convert the crib into the size of a toddler bed or full-size bed. This will help you save money on your purchase and prolong its lifespan.
Another benefit of cribs is their compact footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some cribs also have changing stations that could be useful in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them simple to move. They're a great option for taking your baby on a trip or visiting relatives and friends, as they can be easily packed and taken away. The light construction may result in a less sturdy crib than the standard ones. This might be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Look for a crib with an original design if you want it to stand out. You can find a crib with an elegant, minimalist style or made of a material such as glass or bamboo. It could also have clear sides to allow for easy viewing. They are generally more expensive than solid wood alternatives however, they can be a beautiful focal piece in any nursery.
Other cribs feature an older-fashioned style with beautiful curves and molding, which is reminiscent of furniture from the past. They can be quite elaborate, and are usually handcrafted with beautiful details. They are a great option to consider if you're in search of a crib that can become an heirloom for your family over time. They also work well with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular style. It is characterized by straight, smooth lines and an ethereal, bare-wood look. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. They're great for modern or contemporary nursery and you can paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
They can also serve as a changing table making it easier to change your child. This is especially true for infants who are young and have difficulty sitting up. These models usually have drawers underneath to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as an umbrella. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and help keep your baby comfy and cool during their sleep. Make sure you use a fabric that is not too long and is firmly attached to your crib. This will ensure your child can't reach out and grab the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that transforms into a toddler bed, daybed or full-size beds is a great investment for any family. This feature allows you to save money since you don't have to buy four separate beds as your child gets older, and also saves space in the nursery. A lot of convertible cribs are also equipped with conversion kits that store easily, making them simple to set up and use when the time comes.
When looking for a brand crib for your child, bear in mind that most cribs include additional features like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This lets you modify the appearance and function of your crib, and can be particularly beneficial when you have the smallest or most limited amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels which can be extremely useful when you need to move the bed around to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are generally constructed from 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 modern or classic designs that can suit a wide selection of nursery décor. Some cribs are constructed from wood and others are made out of steel or painted. Some brands are committed environmental sustainability, and offer eco-friendly cribs made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins do not leach into the surrounding environment.
It takes some research and thought to choose the most suitable convertible crib for your nursery. But, it's one that will last for many years to come. Consider your options carefully, and be sure to compare prices, delivery and setup times and other factors to make the right choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is a massive piece of furniture that will make a significant impact on the appearance and feel of your baby's nursery. Therefore, selecting one that matches your preferred style or fits well with the rest of your room decor will make a big difference in how you feel about the nursery as you spend time there.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds can be used as your child grows, giving you value over the long term. They're also generally less expensive than larger 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 removed, cleaned, and many have a conversion set that allows you to transform them into the perfect size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely robust and can withstand the demands of daily use, with some even last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and are more maneuverable when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, they can wear out more quickly and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattress are made to be used by infants and toddlers. One side is soft for infants while the other side is firmer for toddlers. They are usually more secure than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable to older children who don't like the sagging feel of foam. These mattresses are often more affordable than innerspring alternatives.