Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide infants with a dedicated sleep space to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent sleeping routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, including bassinets.
If you choose a modern design or a traditional style, be sure to verify that it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals. Be aware of other aspects when selecting the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent your baby's safety is of paramount importance. You want your child to rest comfortably in a safe environment free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. It's important to choose a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) strict standards.
These include slat spacings no wider than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's legs, arms, or head from getting trapped and an appropriate mattress that is firm and snug-fitting; no drop sides; a solid crib with no wobbling parts and clear assembly instructions. Also, avoid bells and whistles, like bumper pads or streamers, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Look for cribs with low-VOC varnish, which is which is a safer alternative to traditional varnishes or glues which release harmful chemicals. Look for mattresses made from organic foam and cotton.
Pick a crib with no ornaments or cutouts. They could cause injuries when your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover fits tightly to the crib frame and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. It is also recommended to avoid placing pillows comforters, quilts, sheepskins or pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib as these can increase your baby's risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a danger, since they could be pushed down on the baby and cause suffocation. Ideally, you should avoid the use of mobiles completely and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is better for your baby's health and allow you to keep an eye on your little one as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most crucial things your baby will require is a safe place to sleep. Cribs are a great place for your little one to rest, which will be particularly useful when you're juggling other household chores or other activities.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or at the home goods store. 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 quality crib. You'll need be aware of a number of aspects prior to purchasing a crib.
Cribs are a great option for newborns, infants and toddlers, providing an inviting sleeping space that will last well beyond their initial years of life. A lot of cribs are convertible which allow you to transform the crib into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. This can save you money on your purchase and prolong its lifespan.
The compact size of cribs makes them ideal for small spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some cribs also have a changing station that is a great option if you have limited room in your nursery.
Travel cribs provide a similar level of convenience, as they're designed to be light and foldable for easy transport. This makes them an excellent choice when traveling with your child, or when visiting family and friends, as you can easily pack up the crib in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the lightweight construction of travel cribs can also cause less durable construction than standard cribs and could pose a concern for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will stand out in a space choose a crib with unique styling. You can find a crib with a minimalist, sleek design or made from materials like glass or bamboo. It may also have clear sides to allow for easy access to. They are usually more expensive than solid wood versions however they can be an appealing centerpiece to any nursery.
Some cribs have a more traditional look with elegant curves and molding, which is reminiscent of antique furniture. They can be quite elaborate, and are usually made by hand with exquisite details. These are great options when you are looking for a crib that will become a beloved piece of furniture in the course of time and work with any style.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian crib with smooth straight lines and a light, naked wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. They're a good fit for any modern or contemporary nursery, and you can easily paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
They can also serve as a changing table making it easier to change your baby. This is especially important for infants who are young and may have trouble sitting up. These types of cribs usually have drawers underneath to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs are curving or have designs on the side that can be used to create an effect of canopy. These can add a touch elegant to any nursery and will keep your baby comfortable and cool while they sleep. However, be sure that any fabric you use isn't too long or is securely fixed to the crib. Baby Crib 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 bed, daybed, and full-size bed is an excellent investment for any family. This feature will save you money from purchasing four separate beds over your child's development and will also free up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that store easily, making them easy to put together and use at any time.
Another thing to keep in mind while shopping for a crib is that many cribs have additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This lets you customize the appearance and function of your crib. It is especially useful in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs have wheels that can be incredibly useful if you have to move the bed to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made from sturdy non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the rigorous safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have a contemporary or classic design that can be adapted to a wide selection of nursery décor. Some cribs are made of wood, whereas others can be constructed of stainless steel or painted metal. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs that use GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leak into the environment.
It takes some time and research to choose the most suitable convertible crib for your nursery. However, it is one that will last for years to come. Be sure to consider your options carefully, and be sure to look at prices, delivery costs, setup times and other factors to make the right choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the most important piece of furniture in your baby's nursery, and it has a big impact on the overall appearance and feel of the space. It is crucial to select the crib that is in line with your style and will work perfectly with your decor. This can make a big difference in how you feel about your nursery.
As your child grows older cribs that are designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds will continue to be useful providing you with the long-term benefits. They are also less expensive than a full-size bed and can be lent or sold to a relative when your child no longer has need of.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain, as the majority of the components can be removed and cleaned and many come with an adapter kit that allows you to transform them into the proper size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand frequent use and are sturdy. Some can even last for multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and can be easier to maneuver when changing sheets or altering the mattress height. They may wear out faster and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called two-stage or dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning to toddlerhood, having one side that is softer for infants and a firmer side for toddlers. They are generally more secure than foam mattresses and may be more comfortable to older children who don't want the sagging sensation of foam. They're typically more affordable than innerspring alternatives.