Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated sleeping space for infants to lower 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 decide to go with an innovative design or a traditional one, make sure to check if it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals. Then consider other features to determine the perfect crib for your family.
1. Safety
As parents you are responsible for the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your baby to sleep soundly in a secure environment and free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. Pick a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
These include slat spacings less than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's head, arms or legs from getting trapped; an appropriate mattress that is comfortable and firm with no drop sides; a solid crib that has no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streamers or pads, which can present a strangulation risk for your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC varnish, which is a safer option in comparison to conventional glues or varnishes which emit harmful chemicals. Also, search for a mattress that is made with non-toxic materials, such as cotton and organic foam.
Lastly, choose a crib that is free of decorative ornaments and cutouts, which could pose injury risks in the event that your child is able to grab them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. It is also important to ensure that the mattress cover is secure and securely attached to the frame of your crib and that there are no gaps between the frame and the mattress. Avoid placing blankets, pillows or sheepskins or similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. They can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a danger, as they could fall over the baby and cause them to suffocate. Ideally, cots to tots should avoid the use of mobiles completely and choose a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This will be better for your baby's health as well as allow you to monitor your little one while they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most crucial things your baby will need is an area that is safe to sleep in. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your little one to relax, which can be especially useful when you're juggling other household chores or other activities.
You'll probably 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 high-quality crib. You'll need to take into consideration several aspects prior to purchasing a crib.
Cribs are a fantastic option for infants, newborns and toddlers, offering an incredibly comfortable bed that will last for the first few years of existence. Many cribs have convertible features that allow you to transform cribs into toddler beds or full-size beds, which will help you save money and extend the life of the crib you purchase.
The small size of cribs makes them perfect for small spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models also include a changing station that can be helpful in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer a similar level of comfort, since they're designed to be lightweight and easily foldable for transport. This makes them a great choice when traveling with your child or visiting family and friends because you can easily take the crib down in a few minutes before leaving. However, the lightweight construction of travel cribs may lead to less sturdy construction than standard models and could pose an issue for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has an original design if you want it to stand out. It could be one that features a sleek, minimalist design or one that is constructed of a material such as bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for a better visibility. They are generally more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however they can be a stunning accent piece for any nursery.
Some cribs feature traditional designs with graceful curves, moldings and a look that is reminiscent of heirloom pieces. They can be very extravagant, and are generally handmade with beautiful details. They are an excellent choice to consider if you're in search of a crib that can become an important family heirloom in the future. They can also be paired with any design.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular design. It has straight, smooth lines and the light, bare-wood finish. This allows the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. These cribs are perfect for a modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to match your decor.
These cribs can also be used as a changing table, making it easier to change your child. This is especially true for babies who are still young and may have trouble sitting up. These cribs come with drawers to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as an umbrella. They can add a touch of elegant to any nursery and will keep your baby comfortable and cool while they sleep. But, make sure that the fabric you choose isn't too long or is securely attached to the crib. This will prevent your child from reaching out to grab the fabric or pulling 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 can save you money purchasing four separate beds over your child's development as well as save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them easy to set up and use at any time.
Another aspect to be aware of while shopping for cribs is that a lot of models have additional features, such as drawers or adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to alter the look and functionality of your crib. It's especially beneficial when your nursery is limited in storage space. Some cribs have wheels that are extremely useful when you need to move the bed for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are usually constructed with durable, non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby and meet the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. Many cribs have a classic or contemporary design that can be adapted to the various styles of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed of wood, whereas others can be constructed of stainless steel or painted metal. Certain brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
It will require some time and research to choose the most suitable convertible crib for your nursery. However, it is one that will last for years. Consider your options and compare prices, delivery times, and other aspects before making a decision.
5. Value
The crib is the largest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby and has a major impact on the overall look and feel of the space. Therefore, selecting one that is in line with your preferred style or one that works well with the rest of your room's decor can make a huge impact on how you feel about the nursery as you spend time there.
As your child grows older cribs that can be converted into toddler beds or daybeds can be used for a long time providing you with a long-term benefit. They are also less expensive than a full-size bed and can be given or sold to a relative once your child is no longer in need of.
Convertible cribs are also easily maintained, as most components can be removed and cleaned, and many have a conversion set which makes it simple to transform them into the ideal size bed for your child. Wood cribs are incredibly durable and can withstand the rigors of frequent use, with some last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring mattresses which makes them easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. They can wear out faster and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also referred to as dual firm or two-stage mattresses are made to be used by babies and toddlers. One side is soft for infants, while the other is more rigid for toddlers. They are generally more secure than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable for older children who don't want the sagging sensation of foam. They're typically cheaper than innerspring alternatives.