Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an exclusive sleeping space to decrease the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and helps to establish a consistent routine of sleeping. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, including bassinets.
If you decide to go with modern or traditional style, be sure to check if it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Take into consideration other aspects when choosing the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your baby's safety is a top priority. You want your child to rest at ease in a space free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. Select a crib that is in compliance with Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are many things to look out for in a mattress, such as slat spacing which isn't more than 2 3/8 inches to ensure your baby's legs and arms aren't entangled. Also a mattress that is an incredibly firm and comfortable fit and no drop sides sturdy cribs that aren't wobbling and detailed instructions on assembly. You should also avoid bells and whistles, for example bumper pads or streamers, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC, an alternative in comparison to conventional glues or varnishes which release harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Pick a crib with no decorative ornaments or cutouts. These can cause injury when your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Also, make sure that the mattress cover is secure and tightly attached to the frame of your crib and that there aren't gaps between the frame and the mattress. Avoid placing blankets, pillows, sheepskins, or similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. These can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also be a danger, as they can be pulled down on the baby and cause them to suffocate. 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 watch over them while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby to rest is among the most essential things you'll require. Cribs are a great place for your baby's sleep especially when you are engaged in other household chores.
You'll probably find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. They must follow strict guidelines set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal place to start your search for a quality crib. You'll need to consider a variety of aspects before purchasing a crib.
Cribs provide a comfy sleeping area for toddlers, infants and newborns that will last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that let you convert them into toddler beds or full size beds, which can save you money and extend the life of your crib purchase.
The compact size of cribs makes them ideal for small spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some cribs also have an area for changing which can be helpful when you have a small space in your nursery.
Travel cribs are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to transport. They're a great option to travel with your baby or visiting friends and family, as they can be easily packed up before you leave. The light construction may make for a less sturdy crib than the standard ones. This might be a concern to some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with distinctive design if want it to stand out. You can find a crib with a minimalist, sleek design or constructed from materials like glass or bamboo. It could also have clear sides to allow for easy viewing. These are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however they can be a stunning focal piece in any nursery.
best cot newborn offer traditional designs with beautiful curves and moldings, reminiscent of antique furniture. They can be very extravagant, and are generally made by hand with exquisite details. They are an excellent choice if you're looking for a crib that can become an heirloom for your family over time. They can also be paired with any design.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular design. It features straight, smooth lines and a light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty the wood to be seen. They're an excellent fit for any 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 baby. This is especially true for infants who are young and have difficulty sitting up. These types of cribs usually have drawers underneath to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs are bent or have designs on the sides that can be used to create an illusion of a canopy. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery, and will keep your baby comfortable and cool during their sleep. Make sure to choose a fabric that is not too long and is securely attached to your crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler's crib, an adult daybed or a large bed is a great option for any family. This feature will save you money from buying four separate beds throughout your child's development and also save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs also come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them simple to set up and use at any time.
Another aspect to be aware of when shopping for a crib is that many cribs come with additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This lets you modify the appearance and function of your crib. It can be especially useful in the case of 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 for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made using durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the strict safety standards set by the 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 constructed of wood, while others may be made from stainless steel or painted metal. Certain brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leach into the environment.
It will require some research and thought to choose the best convertible crib for your nursery. However, it's a decision that will last for years to come. Consider your options and compare the prices and delivery times as well as other factors before settling on a choice.
5. Value
The crib is a massive piece of furniture that will have a significant impact on the appearance and feel of your baby's nursery. Therefore, selecting one that is in line with your preferred style or fits well with the other decor elements in your room will make a big impact on how you feel about the nursery when you are there.
In the same way, cribs designed to be converted into toddler beds or daybeds increase their value as your child grows, providing you value over the long term. They are also typically less expensive than larger beds and can be sold or given to a relative when your child no longer needs them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, as the majority of the components can be cleaned and removed and many come with an conversion kit that makes it easier to transform them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely sturdy and can withstand demands of daily use, with some even lasting through several children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring mattresses which makes them more convenient to move when changing sheets or altering mattress height. However, they could wear out more quickly and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattresses are designed to be used by babies and toddlers. One side is softer for the 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 want the sagging feel of foam. These mattresses are often cheaper than innerspring alternatives.