10 Cribs Tips All Experts Recommend
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide infants with a dedicated sleep space to lower the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular sleeping routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, including bassinets.
If you decide to go with modern or traditional one, make certain to confirm that it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to toxic 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 soundly in a secure environment, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. Pick a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
This includes slat spacing that is no wider than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's legs, arms, or head from getting trapped; mattresses that are firm and snug-fitting with no drop sides; a sturdy crib with no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. You should also avoid bells and whistles, like bumper streams or pads, as they could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC varnish, which is an alternative to traditional varnishes or glues which emit harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials such as organic foam and cotton.
Also, select a crib that is devoid of ornaments and cutouts that could be a risk of injury in the event that your child grabs them or gets his or her 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. Also, you should avoid putting pillows comforters, quilts pillows, sheepskins or similar stuffed toys in the crib because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a danger, since they could be pushed down on the baby and cause death. You should opt for a mesh crib mobile that is breathable, instead of a mobile. This is more beneficial for your baby's health and will allow you to keep an eye on your child while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure place for your baby to rest is one of the most important things you'll need. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your little one to relax, which can be particularly useful when you're busy tending to other household chores or activities.
You can find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. They must follow strict guidelines laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the best place to start your search for a quality crib. If you're looking to purchase a crib for your home, there are a few factors to take into consideration prior to purchasing.
Cribs provide a comfy sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that last beyond their first few months of life. Many models feature convertible features that allow you to convert them into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can help you save money and extend the life of your crib purchase.
The compact size of cribs makes them perfect for small spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some models include an adjustable table, which can be beneficial if your nursery is restricted in space.
Travel cribs offer the same degree of convenience, since they're designed to be lightweight and foldable to make it easy to transport. This makes them an ideal option for traveling with your child or visiting family and friends since you can take the crib down in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the light construction of travel cribs can also result in less robust construction than standard cribs, which may be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with an original design if you want it to stand out. You may find one that features a sleek, minimalist design or one that is constructed of a material like glass or bamboo and has clear sides for a better visibility. These are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives however they can be a stunning centerpiece in any nursery.
Other cribs have traditional designs with graceful curves, moldings and an appearance that reminds of heirloom pieces. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with stunning details. They are a great option to consider if you're in search of an infant crib that will become an important family heirloom in the future. They also work well with any style.
cots to tots is a different popular style. It is characterized by smooth, straight lines with a light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty the wood to shine through. These cribs are ideal for a modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to match your decor.
These cribs can also be used as a changing table making it easier to change your baby. This is particularly true for infants who are young and have trouble sitting up. These models have drawers for storing wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs are curving or have designs on the sides which can be used to create an effect of canopy. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are a fantastic option to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. Be sure to use fabrics that aren't too long and tightly anchored to your crib. This will prevent your child from reaching out to grab the fabric or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed or a full-size bed can be extremely useful for any family. This feature lets you save money since you don't have to buy four separate beds as your child grows, and also frees up space in the nursery. A lot of convertible cribs are also equipped with conversion kits that store easily, making them easy to put together and use when the time comes.
Another aspect to be aware of while shopping for a crib is that many cribs have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to alter your crib's look and functionality. It's especially beneficial if your nursery has limited storage space. Some cribs have wheels that can be very helpful if you want to move the bed around for cleaning or any other reason.
Convertible cribs are usually constructed using durable non-toxic, non-toxic materials which are safe for your baby and comply with the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature a classic or contemporary design that can fit into the various styles of nursery decor. Some cribs are made from wood, whereas others can be made from stainless steel painted or metal. Some brands are committed environmental sustainability, and offer eco-friendly cribs made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful chemicals do not leach into the surrounding environment.
It will require some research and thought to select the ideal convertible crib for you nursery. However, it's a decision that will last for many years. Be sure to consider your options carefully and make sure you compare prices, delivery and setup times and other factors to make the right choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it has a big impact on the overall look and feel of the space. Therefore, selecting one that matches your preferred style or that will work well with the rest of your room decor can make a huge difference in how you feel about the nursery as you spend time there.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds extend their utility as your child grows, providing you long-term value. They are also less costly than a full-size beds and can be donated or sold to a relative when your child no longer has need.
Convertible cribs can be easily maintained, since most components can be removed and cleaned, and many come with a conversion set that allows you to convert them into the right size bed for your baby. Wood cribs are incredibly sturdy and can withstand demands of daily use, with some even lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options and are easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress's height. However, they could wear out more quickly and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattress, are designed to be used by babies and toddlers. One side is soft for the infants while the other side is more rigid for toddlers. They are usually more secure than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable to older children who don't want the sagging sensation of foam. They are usually cheaper than innerspring mattresses.