Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib offers a dedicated sleeping space for infants to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also encourages a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with a modern design or a traditional style, be sure to verify that it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Then consider other features to determine the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your baby's safety is a top priority. You want your child to sleep at ease in a space free of hazards such as sharp edges or splinters. Select great crib that is in compliance with Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are a variety of things to consider such as slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inch so your baby's arms or legs aren't entangled. Also, a mattress with an incredibly firm and comfortable fit; no drop sides; stable cribs with no wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. You should also avoid bells and whistles, like bumper pads or streamers, which could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Look for a crib that has been coated with low-VOC paints, a safer alternative to traditional varnishes and glues which release harmful chemicals into the air. Choose mattresses made of non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Pick a crib with no decorative ornaments or cutouts. They can cause injury when your child grabs them or gets their fingers stuck in them. You should also check that the mattress cover is secure and securely fit to the frame of the crib and that there aren't gaps between the mattress and the frame. It is also recommended to avoid placing pillows comforters, quilts and sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Mobiles are also a danger, as they can be pulled down on the baby and cause them to choke. It is recommended to choose an infant crib with a mesh structure that is breathable instead of a mobile. This is healthier for the health of your baby and allows you to monitor them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most important things your baby needs is a secure place to sleep. Cribs are a wonderful place for your baby to rest particularly when you are working on other household chores.
You'll likely find cribs in your local home goods store or nursery. These establishments must adhere to strict regulations set out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the best place to begin your search for a high-quality crib. You'll need to take into consideration several aspects prior to purchasing the crib.
Cribs are a fantastic option for infants, newborns and toddlers, offering an inviting sleeping space that lasts well beyond the first few years of life. Many cribs have convertible features that let you transform cribs into toddler beds or full-size beds, which will help you save money and extend the life of the crib you purchase.
Another advantage of cribs is their small footprint that makes them suitable for smaller spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some cribs also have an area for changing which could be useful when you have a small space in your nursery.
Travel cribs provide a similar level of convenience, as they're designed to be lightweight and easily foldable for transport. This makes them an excellent option for traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family since you can take the crib down in a few minutes before leaving. However, the lightweight design of travel cribs can also result in less robust construction than standard cribs which could be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will stand out in a space Look for a crib with a unique style. You can find a crib with sleek, minimalist design or made from materials like glass or bamboo. It could also have clear sides to allow for easy observation. They are generally more expensive than solid wood alternatives, but can be a beautiful centerpiece in any nursery.
Other cribs feature traditional designs with elegant curves and moldings, reminiscent of antique furniture. They can be very extravagant, and are generally handcrafted with beautiful details. These are excellent options to consider if you're in search of an infant crib that will become an important family heirloom in the future. They can also be paired with any design.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular style. It features straight, smooth lines and a light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. They're great for modern or contemporary nursery, and you can paint them or leave them as is to match your decor.
These cribs can be used as a changing table making it easier to change your baby. This is especially important for babies who are still young and have trouble sitting up. These models usually have drawers underneath to store wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs are curved or have designs on the sides which can be used to create an illusion of 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 any fabric you use is not too long or that it's firmly connected to the crib. This will ensure your child doesn't reach out to grasp the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed is a fantastic investment for any family. This feature will help you save money by not purchasing four separate beds during the development of your child and will also free up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs also come with conversion kits that store easily, making them simple to assemble and use when the time comes.
When shopping for a crib that you want to buy, keep in mind that a lot of cribs come with additional features such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to customize the look and function of your crib, and could be especially useful when you have only a tiny or limited amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs come with wheels that can be extremely helpful in case you need to move the bed around for cleaning or for any other reason.
Convertible cribs are typically made with sturdy non-toxic, non-toxic materials which are safe for your baby and comply with the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. Many models have an elegant or contemporary design that will suit a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed of wood, while others could be constructed of metal or painted stainless steel. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leak into the environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your nursery will require some time and thought however, it's an important decision that will last for years to come. Compare 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 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 significant difference in the way you feel about your nursery.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to transform into daybeds or toddler beds can be used as your child grows, 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 easily maintained since the majority of parts can be taken off and cleaned, and many have a conversion set that makes it easy to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand frequent use and are durable. Some can even last for multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options which makes them easier to move when changing sheets or altering mattress height. They can wear out faster and need to be replaced sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning of toddlerhood, with the soft side for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They are typically more secure than foam mattresses, and may be more comfortable for older children who don't want the sagging sensation of foam. They are usually cheaper than innerspring alternatives.