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 helps to establish a consistent sleeping routine. Cribs also provide more flexibility than other options like bassinets.
Whether you go for a modern design or a traditional one, make certain to confirm that it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and reduces exposures to toxic chemicals. Be aware of other aspects when selecting the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As parents, the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your child to rest at ease in a space free of dangers such as sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are numerous things to consider in a mattress, such as slat spacing which is no wider than 2 3/8 inches to ensure your baby's legs or arms aren't entangled. Also, a mattress with an incredibly firm and comfortable fit and no drop sides stable cribs without wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Avoid using any bells or whistles such as bumper pads and streamers that can strangle your baby.
Look for a crib that has been coated with low-VOC paints which is a safer alternative to traditional varnishes and glues that release harmful chemicals into the air. Find recommended cribs made of organic foam and cotton.
Lastly, choose a crib that is devoid of decorative ornaments and cutouts, which could cause injury in the event that your child is able to grab them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover is tightly fitted to the crib frame and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. Avoid placing blankets, pillows or sheepskins, as well as pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. These could increase the risk for your baby to develop SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a hazard, as they can be pushed down on the baby and cause death. In the ideal scenario, you should stay clear of a mobile completely and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This will be better for your baby's health and allow you to keep an eye on your baby while they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most important things your baby will need is an area that is safe to sleep in. Cribs are a great place for your baby to rest particularly when you are busy with other household chores.
You'll probably find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. most recommended cribs must abide by strict guidelines set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal location to start your search for a quality crib. You'll need to consider a variety of factors before you buy a crib.
Cribs are an excellent choice for newborns, infants and toddlers, offering a comfortable sleeping area that will last for their first few years of life. Many cribs have convertible features which allow you to transform the crib into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. This will save you money on your purchase and extend its life.
The compact size of cribs makes them ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some cribs come with a changing table, which can be beneficial if your nursery is limited in space.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them easy to move. This makes them an excellent option when you're traveling with your child or visiting friends and family, as you can easily put the crib away in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the light construction of travel cribs may result in less robust construction than standard models, which may be an issue for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will stand out in a room choose a crib that has a distinctive style. There are cribs with an elegant, minimalist design or constructed from something like glass or bamboo. It may also feature clear sides that allow for easy access to. These are often more expensive than solid wood alternatives, but they can add a beautiful accent to any nursery.
Other cribs offer a more traditional look with graceful curves and molding, which is reminiscent of heirloom furniture. They can be quite extravagant, and are typically handmade with beautiful details. They are a great option for a crib that will become a beloved piece of furniture in the course of time and work with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is another popular design. recommended cribs features smooth, straight lines with an ethereal, bare-wood look. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. They're great for any modern or contemporary nursery, and you can paint them or leave them unpainted to match your decor.
Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table could make it easier to change your baby, particularly when they're young and aren't able to sit 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. These can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are an excellent way to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. Make sure you use a fabric that is not too long and is securely attached to your crib. This will ensure your child can't reach out and grasp the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler bed, daybed and full-size beds is a great investment for any family. This feature can save you money purchasing four separate beds over your child's growth and will also free up 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 when shopping for a crib is that many cribs have additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This allows you to customize the appearance and function of your crib. This is particularly useful in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs even have wheels, which can be incredibly useful when you need to move the bed around to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are made of durable non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have an elegant or contemporary design that will fit into a broad selection of nursery décor. Some cribs are made of wood, while others could be constructed of metal or painted stainless steel. Certain brands are committed to environmental sustainability, and offer eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins are not released into the surrounding environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your baby requires some time and effort, but it is an important decision that can last for a long time. Look at your options and compare prices, delivery times, and other aspects before making a decision.
5. Value
The crib is a large piece of furniture that will have a major impact on the look and feel of your baby's nursery. It is essential to choose a crib that matches your style or goes perfectly with your decor. This can make a big difference in the way you feel about your nursery.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to be converted into daybeds for toddlers or toddlers increase their value 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 relative when your child no longer needs them.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain, as the majority of the components can be cleaned and removed, and most come with an conversion kit that allows you to turn them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs can stand up to a lot of use and are robust. Some can even last for several children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring alternatives, making them easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, they could be more worn out and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning through toddlerhood, with the soft side for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They are usually more secure than foam mattresses, and may be more comfortable to older babies who don't like the sagging feeling of foam. They're also generally more affordable than innerspring options.