Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an exclusive sleeping space to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, including bassinets.
Whether you choose a contemporary 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 minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Then consider other features to determine the perfect crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent you are responsible for the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your child to rest comfortably in a safe environment free of dangers, such as sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) strict standards.
There are many things to look for such as slat spacing that isn't more than 2 3/8 inch so your baby's legs or arms don't get trapped. Also a mattress that is a firm and snug fit with no drop sides; stable cribs without wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Avoid any bells and whistles such as bumper pads and streamers which can strangle your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC, a safer option to traditional varnishes or glues that release harmful chemicals. Look for mattresses made from non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Also, select a crib free of ornaments and cutouts, which can pose injury risks if your baby is able to grab them or gets their fingers stuck in them. You should also check that the mattress cover is secure and securely fitted to the crib frame, and that there aren't gaps between the frame and the mattress. You should also avoid putting pillows comforters, quilts, sheepskins or pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Mobiles are also a danger, as they can be pulled towards the baby and cause them to choke. You should opt for a crib mattress made of mesh that is breathable instead of a mobile. This is better for your baby's health as well as let you monitor your child while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby to sleep is one of the most essential things you'll require. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your baby to rest, which can be particularly helpful when you're juggling other household chores or activities.
You can find cribs at your local nursery or at a home goods store. These kinds of establishments must adhere to strict guidelines that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are usually the best place to start your search for a high-quality crib. You'll have to take into consideration several aspects prior to purchasing a crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that last well beyond the initial months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to convert cribs into toddler beds or full size beds, which can save you money and extend the lifespan of the crib you purchase.
Another benefit of cribs is their small footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some models also include changing stations that could be useful if you have limited room in your nursery.
They are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to carry around. This makes them an excellent choice when traveling with your child or visiting friends and family since you can take the crib down in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the light construction of travel cribs may lead to less sturdy construction than standard cribs and could pose a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has a unique design if you want it to stand out. You may find one that features an elegant, minimalist design or one that is constructed of a material such as bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for a better accessibility. They are generally more expensive than solid wood alternatives however they can be a stunning focal piece in any nursery.
Other cribs offer an older-fashioned style with graceful curves and moldings, reminiscent of heirloom furniture. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with gorgeous details. These are excellent options for an item that will be a favorite piece of family furniture over time and will work well with any theme.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian crib with sleek straight lines and a light, unfinished wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. They're an excellent fit for modern or contemporary nursery, and you can paint them or leave them as is to match 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 trouble sitting up. These cribs come with drawers for storing wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs have curving sides or designs that can be used as a canopy. They can add a touch of elegant to any nursery and help keep your baby comfy and cool during their sleep. Be sure, however, that any fabric you use isn't too long, or that it is securely fixed to the crib. cheap cot beds will ensure that your child doesn't reach out to grab the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed, or a full-size bed is a great option for any family. This feature allows you to save money by not having to buy four beds as your child grows and also frees up space in the nursery. A lot of convertible cribs are also equipped with conversion kits that store easily, making them easy to put together and use when the time comes.
Another aspect to be aware of while shopping for cribs is that a lot of models have additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This allows you to customize the look and function of your crib, and can be especially useful in the case of only a tiny or limited amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels, which can be incredibly helpful if you need to move the bed for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are usually constructed with sturdy, non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet stringent safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. Many models have an elegant or contemporary design that can fit into different styles of nursery décor. cheap cot beds are made of wood, while others are fabricated from steel or painted. Certain brands are committed to sustainable development, offering eco-friendly cribs made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins are not released into the surrounding environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your baby will require some time and effort however, it's an important decision that can be used for many years to come. Look at your options and evaluate the prices, delivery times, and other aspects before settling on a choice.
5. Value
The crib is a large piece of furniture that will have a significant impact on the look and feel of the nursery of your baby. This is why choosing one that is in line with your preferred style or one that works well with the other decor elements in your room can make a huge difference in how you feel about the nursery as you spend time there.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds can be used as your child grows, providing you value over the long term. They are also less expensive than full-size beds and can be donated or sold to a friend when your child is no longer in need.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain, since most of the components can be cleaned and removed and the majority have an adapter kit that makes it easy to transform them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs are incredibly sturdy and can withstand stress of regular use, with some even lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives which makes them more convenient to move when changing sheets or adjusting mattress height. However, they can 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 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 are more comfortable for older infants who don't like the sagging feel of foam. They're also generally cheaper than innerspring alternatives.