Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an area for sleeping that is specifically designed to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent sleeping routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, including bassinets.
Whether you go for modern or traditional one, make sure to verify that it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals. Take into consideration other aspects when choosing the crib that is suitable for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent your baby's safety is of paramount importance. You want your baby to sleep peacefully in a secure environment and free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are numerous things to consider such as slat spacing that isn't more than 2 3/8 inches to ensure your baby's legs or arms do not get caught. Also a mattress that is a firm and snug fit with no drop sides; stable cribs without wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Avoid any bells and whistles such as bumper pads and streamers which could strangle your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC, a safer option to traditional varnishes or glues that release harmful chemicals. Choose mattresses made of non-toxic materials such as organic foam and cotton.
Choose a crib without any ornaments or cutouts. They can cause injury should your child pick them up, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Make sure the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame. Avoid putting cheap cot beds , blankets, sheepskins, or pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. They can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles are also a potential hazard, as they can be pulled down onto the baby, causing death. In the ideal scenario, you should stay clear of using a mobile at all costs and choose a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is better for your baby's health as well as let you keep an eye on your little one while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A safe place for your baby's sleep is among the most essential things you'll need. Cribs are an excellent place for your baby's sleep particularly when you are engaged in other household chores.
You'll probably find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These types of establishments must adhere to strict guidelines that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are generally the best place to start your search for a high-quality crib. If you want to buy a crib for your home, there are many considerations you'll need to make before purchasing.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping space for toddlers, infants and newborns that will last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs have convertible features that allow you to convert the crib into the size of a toddler bed or full-sized bed. This can save you money on your purchase and extend the life of your crib.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their compact footprint that makes them suitable for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some models include a changing table, which is beneficial if your nursery is limited in space.
Travel cribs provide a similar level of comfort, since they're designed to be light and foldable for easy transport. This makes them an excellent option when you're traveling with your child or visiting family and friends, as you can easily put the crib away in just a few minutes prior to leaving. The lightweight construction can also result in a less sturdy crib than standard models. This may be a concern to some parents.
3. Style
Look for a crib with an original design if you want it to stand out. You can find a crib with a minimalist, sleek style or made of a material such as bamboo or glass. It may also have clear sides that allow for easy observation. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives however, they can be a beautiful accent piece for any nursery.
Other cribs feature traditional designs with elegant curves and molding, which is reminiscent of antique furniture. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with gorgeous details. These are great options when you are looking for a crib that can become a favorite piece of furniture in the course of time and will work well with any theme.
A Scandinavian crib is another popular style. It has smooth, straight lines with an ethereal, bare-wood look. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. They're an excellent fit for modern or contemporary nursery, and you can paint them or leave them as is to match your decor.
Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table could help you change your baby, especially when they're young and aren't able to sit on their own. These types of cribs typically have drawers beneath to store wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs are curved or have designs on the side which can be used to create a canopy effect. These can bring a touch of class to any nursery and are a great method to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. Be sure, however, that any fabric you use isn't too long, or that it is securely attached to the crib. This will ensure your child isn't able to reach out and grasp the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be converted into a toddler's crib, a daybed, or a full-size bed can be extremely useful for any family. This feature allows you to save money by not having to buy four separate beds as your child gets older, and also saves space in the nursery. A lot of convertible cribs are also equipped with conversion kits that store easily, making them easy to set up and use when the time comes.
When you are looking for a new crib, keep in mind that many models have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This lets you customize your crib's look and functionality. This is particularly useful in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs have wheels, which are extremely useful in case you need to move the bed around for cleaning or for any other reason.
Convertible cribs are typically made using durable non-toxic, non-toxic materials which are safe for your baby and meet the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs also feature modern or classic designs that will fit into a broad range of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed of wood, while others could be made from metal or painted stainless steel. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leak into the environment.
It will take some time and research to select the ideal convertible crib for your nursery. However, it is a decision that will last for years to come. Take your time when evaluating your options and make sure you evaluate prices, delivery and the time of setup, as well as other factors to make the best decision for your family.
5. Value
The crib is a massive piece of furniture that can make a significant impact on the look and feel of your baby's nursery. Therefore, selecting one that matches your preference in style or one that works well with the rest of your room decor can make a significant impact on how you feel about the nursery as you are there.
In the same way, cribs designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds increase their value as your child grows, providing you a long-term benefit. They're also generally less costly than larger beds and can be sold or given to a friend when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs can be easily maintained since the majority of parts can be taken off and cleaned, and many come with a conversion set that makes it easy to convert them into the right size bed for your baby. Wood cribs can withstand frequent use and are robust. Some can even last for multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and are easier to maneuver when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress's height. However, they could get worn out faster and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattress are designed to be used for babies and toddlers. One side is gentler for infants, while the other side is firmer for toddlers. They're typically safer than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable for older babies who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. They're typically cheaper than innerspring mattresses.