Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer infants an exclusive sleeping space to decrease the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent routine of sleeping. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options like bassinets.
If you opt for a modern style or a more traditional style ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure it is in compliance with the highest safety standards and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Then consider other features to find the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your baby's safety is a top priority. You want your baby to sleep soundly in a safe and secure space and free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It is essential to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
This includes slat spacing that is less than 2 3/8 inches to avoid your baby's legs, arms, or head from being caught in the mattress; an appropriate mattress that is firm and snug-fitting; no drop sides; a stable crib with no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper pads or streamers, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Find a crib painted with low-VOC paint that is a safer choice to traditional glues and varnishes which release harmful chemicals into the air. Find mattresses made of organic foam and cotton.
Finally, pick a crib that is devoid of decorative embellishments and cutouts, which can cause injury in the event that your child grabs them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. Avoid putting pillows, blankets or sheepskins, as well as similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. They can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose dangerous, as they could be pulled over the baby and cause them to suffocate. You should opt for a mesh crib mobile that is breathable rather than a mobile. This is better for the health of your baby and lets you watch over them while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A safe place for your baby's sleep is one of the most essential things you will need. Cribs provide a convenient spot for your little one to rest, which will be especially useful when you're busy with other household chores or activities.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or at the home goods store. These establishments must abide by strict guidelines laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal location to start your search for a top-quality crib. You'll have to take into consideration several aspects before purchasing the crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs have convertible features that let you convert cribs into toddler beds or full size beds, which can save you money and extend the lifespan of your crib purchase.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their compact footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some models also come with an area for changing which can be helpful if you have limited room in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer a similar level of comfort, since they're designed to be lightweight and foldable to make it easy to transport. This makes them an excellent option when you're traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family, as you can easily put the crib away within a matter of minutes prior to leaving. However, cots and tots of travel cribs may cause less durable construction than standard models, which may be an issue for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has distinctive design if want it to stand out. You can find a crib with sleek, minimalist design or made from a material such as glass or bamboo. It may also feature clear sides that allow for easy observation. They are generally more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however, they can be a beautiful accent piece for any nursery.
Other cribs feature traditional designs with graceful curves and molding, reminiscent of antique furniture. They can also be elaborate and are typically handcrafted with stunning details. They are a great option to consider if you're in search of the perfect crib that will be an heirloom for your family over time. They can also be paired with any style.
Another popular style is a Scandinavian crib with straight lines that are smooth and a light, naked wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are ideal for a modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood bare to match your decor.
Cribs that can serve as a combination of a changing table could make it much easier to change your baby, especially when they're younger and aren't able to sit on their own. These cribs come with drawers to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as a canopy. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery, and will keep your baby comfortable and cool while they sleep. But, make sure that any fabric you use isn't too long or that it is securely attached to the crib. This will ensure your child can't reach out and grab the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be converted into a toddler's bed a daybed or a full-size bed is a great option for any family. This feature will save you money from purchasing four separate beds during your child's growth and also 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.
When looking for a brand new crib, keep in mind that most cribs include additional features such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to customize your crib's look and functionality. It is especially useful if your nursery has limited storage space. Some cribs are equipped with wheels which can be extremely useful if you have to move the bed around to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically constructed from durable non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the rigorous safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. Many models have an elegant or contemporary design that will suit different styles of nursery décor. Some cribs are made from wood, whereas others can be made from stainless steel or painted metal. Some brands are committed environmental sustainability, and offer eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins do not leach into the surrounding environment.
It takes some research and thought to select the ideal convertible crib for you nursery. However, it's an investment that will last for years. Look at your options and evaluate the prices, delivery times, and other aspects before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is the most important piece of furniture in your baby's nursery and has a major impact on the overall design and feel of the space. It is important to choose the crib that is in line with your style or goes well with the decor of your room. This can make a big difference in how you feel about your nursery.
As your child grows older, cribs designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds are still useful providing you with an advantage over time. They are also less costly than full-size beds and can be donated or sold to a relative when your child is no longer in need of.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain, as the majority of the parts can be cleaned and removed and many come with a conversion kit that makes it easier to turn them into the proper size bed for your child. Wood cribs are incredibly robust and can withstand the stress of regular use, with some last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring mattresses, making them easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting mattress height. However, they may be more worn out and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called 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're generally safer than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older children who don't like the sagging feel of foam. These mattresses are often cheaper than innerspring mattresses.