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 routine of sleeping. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with a modern style or a more traditional design, make sure it's GREENGUARD Gold certified to ensure it meets the highest safety standards and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Then consider other features to find the perfect crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent you are responsible for the safety of your child is your top concern. You want your child to sleep at ease in a space free of hazards such as sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are numerous things to look for in a mattress, such as slat spacing which is no wider than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's legs and arms don't get trapped. Also a mattress that is a firm, snug fit; no drop sides; stable cribs with no wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. Avoid using tots and cots or whistles like bumper pads or streamers that can strangle your baby.
Look for cribs painted with low-VOC varnish, which is a safer option than traditional glues or varnishes that release harmful chemicals. Look for mattresses made from non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Select a crib that does not have decorative ornaments or cutouts. These can cause injury when your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. It is also important to ensure that the mattress cover is secure and tightly fit to the frame of the crib and that there are no gaps between the frame and the mattress. Avoid putting pillows, blankets or sheepskins or pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. These can increase the risk for your baby to develop SIDS. Mobiles can also pose dangerous, as they can be pulled down on the baby and cause them to collapse. Ideally, you should avoid a mobile completely and choose a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is better for the health of your baby and lets you watch over them while they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most important things your baby needs is a secure place to sleep. Cribs are a great place for your baby to sleep especially when you are busy with other household chores.
You can find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These establishments must abide by strict regulations set out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal place to start your search for a high-quality crib. You'll have be aware of a number of factors before you buy a crib.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that last well beyond the initial months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features which allow you to transform the crib into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. This will save you money and prolong its lifespan.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their compact footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models also come with a changing station that is a great option if you have limited room in your nursery.
Travel cribs provide a similar degree of convenience, since they're designed to be light and foldable to make it easy to transport. This makes them an ideal option for traveling with your child or visiting friends and family 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, which may be an issue for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has an original design if you want it to stand out. You can find a crib with an elegant, minimalist design or constructed from a material such as bamboo or glass. It may also feature transparent sides for easy observation. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however, they can be a beautiful focal piece in any nursery.
Some cribs feature an older style with elegant curves and moldings. They also have a look that is reminiscent of antique pieces. They can be quite elaborate, and are usually handmade with beautiful details. They are a great option for a crib that can become an integral piece of furniture in the course of time and will work well with any style.
Another popular style is a Scandinavian-style crib that has sleek straight lines and a light, naked wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. They're an excellent fit to any modern or contemporary nursery and you can easily paint them or leave them unpainted to match your decor.
These cribs can also be used as a changing table making it easier to change your child. This is particularly true for babies who are still young and have trouble sitting up. These cribs have drawers that can be used to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs have curved sides or designs that can be used as a canopy. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and help keep your baby comfy and cool while they sleep. However, be sure that the fabric you choose to use isn't too long, or is securely attached to the crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that transforms into a toddler bed, daybed and full-size bed is a fantastic 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. A lot of convertible cribs are also equipped with conversion kits that store easily, making them easy to assemble and use at any time.
Another aspect to be aware of while shopping for cribs is that a lot of cribs come with additional features, like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to alter the appearance and function of your crib. It is especially useful when your nursery is limited in storage space. Some cribs are equipped with wheels, which can be incredibly useful if you have 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 and meet the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. Many models have an elegant or contemporary design that will suit different styles of nursery décor. Some cribs are constructed of wood, while others may be made from stainless steel or painted metal. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
It will take some time and effort to choose the most suitable convertible crib for you nursery. However, it is a decision that will last for many years to come. Consider your options carefully and be sure to compare prices, delivery and setup times and other factors to make the best decision for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the most important piece of furniture in your baby's nursery, and it has a major impact on the overall design and feel of the space. It is crucial to select the crib that is in line with your style or will go well with the decor of your room. This can make a big difference in the way you feel about your nursery.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to be converted into toddler beds or daybeds extend their utility as your child grows, giving you value over the long term. They're also generally less expensive than full-size beds and are able to be sold or given to a friend when your child no longer needs them.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain, as the majority of the components are easily removed and cleaned and many come with an conversion kit that makes it easy to convert them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand frequent use and are durable. Some even last multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives and are easier to maneuver when changing sheets or altering the mattress's height. They are more likely to wear out and need replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also referred to as dual firm or two-stage mattresses, are designed to be used by infants and toddlers. One side is softer for the infants while the other side is more firm for toddlers. They're generally more secure than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older children who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They're typically cheaper than innerspring alternatives.