Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide infants with a dedicated sleep space to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent sleeping routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with a modern design or a more traditional design ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure that it adheres to the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Then consider other features to find the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your child's safety is of paramount importance. You want your child to sleep peacefully in a safe and secure space that is free of dangers such as sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are many things to consider such as slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inch so your baby's legs or arms do not get caught. Also you should look for a mattress that has a firm, snug fit and no drop sides stable cribs with no wobbling parts and detailed instructions on assembly. best crib newborn should also avoid bells and whistles, for example bumper streamers or pads, which can present a strangulation risk for your baby.
Look for cribs painted with low-VOC paint, an alternative in comparison to conventional glues or varnishes which emit harmful chemicals. In addition, you should search for a mattress that is made with non-toxic materials, like organic cotton and foam.
Also, select a crib that is devoid of decorative embellishments and cutouts that could cause injury in the event that your child grasps them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Make sure the mattress cover fits tightly to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame. Also, you should avoid putting pillows, quilts, comforters pillows, sheepskins or similar stuffed toys in the crib as these can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose risky, since they could be pulled towards the baby and cause them to choke. You should choose an infant crib with a mesh structure that is breathable, instead of mobiles. This is more beneficial for your baby's health and allow you to keep an eye on your child while they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most crucial things your baby will need is a safe place to sleep. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your baby to rest, which can be especially useful when you're juggling other household chores or activities.
You'll probably find cribs at your local home goods store or nursery. They must follow strict guidelines laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the best location to start your search for a high-quality crib. You'll have to take into consideration several factors before you buy a crib.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping space for infants, toddlers and babies that last well beyond the initial months of life. Many cribs have convertible features that let you convert cribs into toddler beds or full size beds, which can help you save money and extend the life 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 could be useful when you have a small space in your nursery.
Travel cribs are also lightweight and foldable, making them simple to carry around. This makes them an ideal option when you're traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family because you can easily pack up the crib within a matter of minutes prior to leaving. The light construction may result in a less sturdy crib than traditional models. This could be a concern to some parents.
3. Style
Look for a crib with a unique design if you want it to stand out. There are cribs with a minimalist, sleek design or made from something like glass or bamboo. It may also feature clear sides that allow for easy observation. These are usually 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 an appearance that reminds of heirloom pieces. They can also be quite intricate and are often handcrafted with beautiful details. They are an excellent choice when you're looking for an infant crib that will become a family heirloom over time. They can also be paired with any design.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian crib with straight lines that are smooth and a light, bare wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. They're great for modern or contemporary nursery and you can paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table can make it easier to change your baby, especially when they're young and have trouble sitting up on their own. These cribs come with drawers to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs have curving sides or designs that can be used as an umbrella. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are a fantastic method to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Make sure you use a fabric that is not too long and is tightly anchored to your 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 growth as well as save 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 important thing to consider while shopping for a crib is that many models have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to alter the appearance and function of your crib. It is especially useful in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs even have wheels, which can be incredibly useful if you have to move the bed around to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made of durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature modern or classic designs that can fit into a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed from wood, while others are fabricated from metal or painted steel. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
The best convertible crib for your child will require some thought and research however, it's an important choice that could last for years to come. Look at your options and compare the prices and delivery times as well as other aspects before settling on a choice.
5. Value
The crib is the largest piece of furniture in your baby's nursery, and it can have a significant impact on the overall appearance and feel of the room. It is crucial to select a crib that fits your style or will go well with your room decor. This will make a huge difference in how you feel about your nursery.
In the same way, cribs designed to convert into daybeds for toddlers or toddlers can be used as your child grows, providing you a long-term benefit. They are also less costly than full-size bed and can be given or sold to a relative after your child is no longer in need.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain, since most of the components are easily removed and cleaned, and most have an conversion kit that makes it easy to convert them into the proper size bed for your child. Wood cribs are especially durable and can withstand the rigors of frequent use, with some lasting through several children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options and can be easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress's height. However, they can be more worn out and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning through toddlerhood, with the soft side for infants and a firmer side for toddlers. They're typically more secure than foam mattresses and can be more comfortable for older children who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. These mattresses are often cheaper than innerspring mattresses.