Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer infants a dedicated sleep space to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular routine of sleeping. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, such as bassinets.
If you choose a modern design or a traditional style, be certain to confirm that it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to toxic chemicals. Be aware of other aspects when selecting the crib that is right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your baby's safety is a top priority. You want your child to rest comfortably in a safe environment free of dangers, like sharp edges or splinters. It is essential to select a crib that is in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) strict standards.
These include slat spacing less than 2 3/8 inches to avoid your baby's legs, arms, or head from getting stuck in the mattress; mattresses that are well-made and comfortable without drop sides; a solid crib that is not prone to wobbling; and detailed assembly instructions. Also, avoid bells and whistles, like bumper streams or pads, as they can present a strangulation risk for your baby.
Look for cribs beds with low-VOC, a safer option in comparison to conventional glues or varnishes which emit harmful chemicals. Also, search for a mattress that is made of non-toxic materials like organic cotton and foam.
Also, select a crib that is free of decorative embellishments and cutouts, which could cause injury in the event that your child grabs them or gets their fingers stuck in them. It is also important to ensure that the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of your crib and that there are no gaps between the frame and the mattress. It is also recommended to avoid placing pillows, quilts, comforters, sheepskins or pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Mobiles are also a potential hazard, as they can be pushed down on the baby, causing death. It is recommended to avoid the use of mobiles completely and choose a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is healthier for the health of your baby and lets you watch over them while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby to sleep is one of the most important things you will need. Cribs are a wonderful place for your baby to sleep especially when you are engaged in other household chores.
You'll likely find cribs in your local home goods store or nursery. These establishments must abide by strict regulations set out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal place to start your search for a top-quality crib. If you're planning to purchase a crib for your home, there are several things to consider before making your purchase.
Cribs are an excellent choice for infants, newborns and toddlers, providing a comfortable sleeping area that will last for the first few years of existence. Many models feature convertible features that allow you to convert them into toddler beds or full size beds, which will reduce your costs and prolong the lifespan of your crib purchase.
The small size of cribs makes them perfect for small spaces like lofts or apartments. Some models come with an adjustable table, which is useful if your nursery is limited in space.
They are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to carry around. This makes them an excellent option for 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 cause less durable construction than standard cribs and could pose a problem for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that can make a statement in a room, look for a model that has a distinctive style. There are cribs with sleek, minimalist design or made from a material such as glass or bamboo. It could also have clear sides to allow for easy viewing. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives but can be a beautiful accent piece for any nursery.
Some cribs have an older-fashioned style with elegant curves and molding, reminiscent of furniture from the past. They can also be intricate and are often handcrafted with beautiful details. They are a great option when you are looking for a crib that will 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 features straight, smooth lines and the light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty the wood to shine through. They're an excellent fit to any modern or contemporary nursery, and you can paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
Cribs that combine the function of a changing table could make it easier to change your baby, especially when they're young and aren't able to sit on their own. These cribs have drawers that can be used to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs are curved or have designs on the sides which can be used to create an effect of canopy. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery and will keep your baby comfortable and cool as they sleep. However, be sure that any fabric you use isn't too long, or is securely fixed to the crib. This will prevent your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that transforms into a toddler bed, daybed or full-size beds is a great investment for any family. This feature can save you money purchasing four separate beds over the development of your child as well as save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that store easily, making them simple to set up and use when the time comes.
When shopping for a new crib, keep in mind that a lot of cribs have additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to alter the look and functionality of your crib. This is particularly useful in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs even have wheels that can be incredibly useful when you need to move the bed for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are generally constructed from durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the strict safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have an elegant or contemporary design that will fit into a broad range of nursery decor. Some cribs are made from wood, whereas others can be constructed from stainless steel or painted metal. Some brands are committed to environmental sustainability, and offer eco-friendly cribs made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful toxins are not released into the environment.
The best convertible crib for your nursery requires some time and thought however it is an important choice that could last for years to come. Consider your options and compare the prices, delivery times, and other factors before settling on a choice.
5. Value
The crib is a huge piece of furniture that will have a major impact on the look and feel of your baby's nursery. This is why choosing one that is in line with your preferred style or fits well with the other decor elements in your room can make a huge impact on how you feel about the nursery as you are there.
Similar to cribs that are designed to be converted into daybeds or toddler beds increase their value as your child grows, giving you a long-term benefit. They are also less expensive than a full-size beds and can be donated or sold to a relative after your child is no longer in need.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, as the majority of the parts can be removed and cleaned and many have an conversion kit that allows you to convert them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely sturdy and can withstand demands of daily use, with some even lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and are more maneuverable when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, they may be more worn out and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattress are made to be used by babies and toddlers. One side is soft for infants while the other side is more rigid for toddlers. They're generally more secure than foam mattresses and can be more comfortable for older children who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. These mattresses are often cheaper than innerspring mattresses.