Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide infants with an area for sleeping that is specifically designed to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular routine of sleeping. Cribs also offer more flexibility than other options such as bassinets.
Whether you go for an innovative design or a traditional one, make sure to check if it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and reduces exposures to toxic chemicals. Also, consider other features to determine the perfect crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent your baby's security is of the utmost importance. You want your child to sleep at ease in a space free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are many things to look for in a mattress, such as slat spacing which isn't more than 2 3/8 inch so your best baby cots's arms or legs do not get caught. Also you should look for a mattress that has a firm and snug fit and no drop sides sturdy cribs that aren't wobbling and detailed instructions on assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, for example bumper streamers or pads, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Choose a crib that has been painted with low-VOC paints which is a safer alternative to traditional varnishes and glues which release harmful chemicals into the air. Similarly, consider a mattress constructed of non-toxic materials such as cotton and organic foam.
Pick a crib with no decorative embellishments or cutouts. These can cause injury when your child grabs them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Make sure that the mattress cover fits tightly to the crib frame and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. Also, you should avoid putting pillows, quilts, comforters and sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib because they can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a danger, as they could be pulled over the baby and cause them to collapse. You should opt for a mesh crib mobile that is breathable rather than a mobile. This is more beneficial for your baby's health and allow you to keep an eye on your child while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A safe place for your baby to sleep is one of the most important things you will need. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your baby 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. These types of establishments have to adhere to strict guidelines set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best crib for newborn place to start your search for a quality crib. You'll have to consider a variety of factors before you buy a crib.
Cribs provide a comfy sleeping space for infants, toddlers and newborns that will last beyond their first few months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to convert the crib into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. This will save you money and prolong its lifespan.
Another advantage of cribs is their compact footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models also include changing stations that is a great option in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them simple to carry around. They are a great choice for traveling with your baby or visiting friends and family since they can be easily packed and taken away. The light construction may result in a less sturdy crib than traditional models. This might be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that can make a statement in a room, look for affordable cots a model with unique styling. You can find one with sleek, minimalist designs or one that is constructed of a material like bamboo or glass and has clear sides for easy accessibility. They are usually more expensive than solid wood versions however, they can make a beautiful accent to any nursery.
Other cribs offer traditional designs with elegant curves and moldings, reminiscent of antique furniture. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with beautiful details. They are a great option if you want an item that will be an integral piece of furniture for your family over time and will work well with any style.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian-style crib that has straight lines that are smooth and a light, naked wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. They're a good fit for modern or contemporary nursery and you can paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table can help you change your baby cots online, especially when they're younger and struggle to sit up on their own. These cribs come with drawers to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs are bent or have designs on the side which can be used to create an illusion of a canopy. These can provide a touch of luxury to any nursery and are a fantastic option 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 stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler bed, daybed or full-size beds is a great investment for any family. This feature will save you money from purchasing four separate beds during your child's development and will also free up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it simple to use them when required.
Another important thing to consider when you're looking for a crib is that many cribs come with additional features, like drawers or adjustable mattress heights. This lets you customize the appearance and function of your crib. 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 to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are constructed from durable, non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. Many models have modern or classic designs that can be adapted to a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood, while others could be constructed from stainless steel painted or metal. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs that use GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leak into the environment.
It takes some research and thought to choose the most suitable convertible crib for your nursery. However, it is a decision that will last for many years. Consider your options carefully, and be sure to compare prices, delivery and the time of setup, as well as other factors to make the right choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the most important piece of furniture in your baby's nursery, and it can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the space. This is why choosing one that matches your preferred style or one that works well with the rest of your room decor can make a significant difference in 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 value over the long term. They are also less costly than a full-size bed and can be given or sold to a family member after your child no longer has need of.
Convertible cribs can be easily maintained, since most parts can be removed, cleaned, and a lot have a conversion kit which makes it simple to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are especially robust and can withstand the rigors of frequent use, with some even last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring alternatives which makes them more convenient to move when changing sheets or altering mattress height. However, they can get worn out faster and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called two-stage or dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning to toddlerhood, having the soft side for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They're typically more secure than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older children who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. These mattresses are often cheaper than innerspring mattresses.