Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer infants an exclusive sleeping space to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent routine of sleeping. Cribs also provide more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with modern or traditional one, make certain to confirm that it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and reduces 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 your top concern. You want your baby to rest peacefully in a safe environment, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that is in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) strict standards.
There are a variety of things to look out for in a mattress, such as slat spacing which is not more than 2 3/8 inches to ensure your baby's legs and arms don't get trapped. Also, cot sale with an incredibly firm and comfortable fit; no drop sides; stable cribs without wobbling parts and detailed instructions on assembly. Avoid any bells and whistles such as bumper pads or streamers that can strangle your baby.
Look for cribs painted with low-VOC, which is a safer alternative to traditional varnishes or glues which emit harmful chemicals. In addition, you should search for a mattress that is made using non-toxic materials, such as organic cotton and foam.
Pick a crib with no ornaments or cutouts. They could cause injuries should your child pick them up, or gets their fingers stuck in them. You should also check 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 or sheepskins or pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. These can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also be a risk, since they could be pulled down onto the baby and cause death. You should opt for a mesh crib mobile that is breathable rather than mobiles. This is more beneficial for your baby's health and will let you keep an eye on your baby as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby to rest is one of the most essential things you'll require. Cribs are an excellent place for your baby to sleep particularly when you are working on other household chores.
You'll probably find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These kinds of establishments must comply with strict regulations established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are generally the best place to start your search for a top quality crib. If you want to buy a crib for your home, there are many factors to take into consideration before purchasing.
Cribs provide a comfy sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that will last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs have convertible features that allow you to transform cribs into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can help you save money and extend the lifespan of the crib you purchase.
The compact size of cribs makes them ideal for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some cribs also have a changing station that can be helpful in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them easy to transport. They're an excellent choice for traveling with your baby or visiting friends and family because they can be easily packed up before you leave. However, the light construction of travel cribs can also lead to less sturdy construction than standard models and could pose a problem for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will stand out in a space, look for a model that has a distinctive style. There are cribs with an elegant, minimalist design or made from materials like glass or bamboo. It may also feature clear sides to allow for easy observation. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood versions however they can be a beautiful focal point to any nursery.
Some cribs feature traditional designs with beautiful curves and moldings. They also have a look that is reminiscent of heirloom pieces. They can also be quite elaborate and are typically handcrafted with gorgeous 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 another popular design. It has straight, smooth lines and the light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty the wood to shine through. These cribs are great for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to fit in with your decor.
Cribs that can serve as a combination of a changing table could help you change your baby, particularly when they're young and aren't able to sit on their own. They typically come with drawers underneath to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as an umbrella. These can bring a touch of class to any nursery and are a fantastic method to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Make sure to choose a fabric that is not too long and that is tightly anchored to your crib. This will ensure that your child can't reach out and grab the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can convert into a toddler's bed, an adult daybed or a large bed can be extremely useful for any family. This feature allows you to save money by not having to purchase four separate beds as your child gets older, and also saves space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that store easily, making them simple to set up and use at any time.
Another aspect to be aware of when shopping for cribs is that a lot of cribs come with additional features, like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to alter your crib's look and functionality. This is particularly useful when your nursery is limited in storage space. Some cribs even have wheels, which can be incredibly useful when you need to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are generally constructed with sturdy non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. Many models have an elegant or contemporary design that can fit into different styles of nursery décor. Some cribs are made of wood, whereas others can be constructed from stainless steel or painted metal. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs that use GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
It will take some time and research to choose the best convertible crib for your nursery. But, it's an investment that will last for years to come. Be sure to consider your options carefully, and be sure to compare prices, delivery and time to set up, among other things to make the best decision for your family.
5. Value
The crib is a massive piece of furniture that can make a significant impact on the appearance and feel of your baby's nursery. Therefore, selecting one that matches your preferred style or one that works well with the other decor elements in your room can make a significant impact on how you feel about the nursery when you are there.
As your child grows older cribs that are designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds will continue to be useful, giving you a long-term benefit. They are also typically less expensive than full-size beds and are able to be sold or given to a friend when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain since the majority of the components can be removed and cleaned, and most come with an adapter kit that allows you to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are especially durable and can withstand the stress of regular use, with some even lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options and are therefore easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress's height. They can wear out faster and require replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning to toddlerhood, having a side that's softer for infants and a firmer side for toddlers. They are usually more secure than foam mattresses and may be more comfortable for older children who don't like the sagging feel of foam. These mattresses are also often cheaper than innerspring alternatives.