Five Cribs Lessons From Professionals
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide a dedicated sleeping space for infants to reduce the risk Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also helps to establish a regular sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options such as bassinets.
If you opt for a modern design or a more traditional style Make sure it's GREENGUARD Gold certified to ensure it adheres to the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Take into consideration other aspects when choosing the crib that is right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your child's safety is a top priority. You want your child to sleep at ease in a space free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. Pick a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are many things to look for, including slat spacing that isn't more than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's legs or arms aren't entangled. Also, a mattress with a firm and snug fit and no drop sides stable cribs without wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. You should also avoid bells and whistles, like bumper pads or streamers, which can present a strangulation risk for your baby.
Look for a crib that is painted with low-VOC paint that is a safer choice to glues and varnishes that release harmful chemicals into the air. Similarly, look for a mattress made using non-toxic materials, like organic cotton and foam.
Choose a crib without any decorative embellishments or cutouts. They could cause injuries when your child grabs them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover is tightly fitted to the crib frame and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame. You should also avoid putting pillows, quilts, comforters pillows, sheepskins or similar stuffed toys in the crib since they could increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a hazard, as they can be pulled down onto the baby, causing the baby to suffocate. You should choose a crib mattress made of mesh that is breathable instead of mobiles. This is healthier for the health of your baby and lets you supervise them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby's sleep is one of the most essential things you'll need. Cribs are a wonderful place for your baby to sleep particularly when you are working on other household chores.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or home goods store. These types of establishments have to comply with strict regulations established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best place to begin your search for a high-quality crib. You'll have be aware of a number of factors before you buy a crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping space for toddlers, infants and newborns that will last well beyond the initial months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that let you convert cribs into toddler beds or full size beds, which can reduce your costs and prolong the life of the crib you purchase.
The small size of cribs makes them ideal for small spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some cribs come with the option of a changing table, which is useful if your nursery is limited in space.
Travel cribs are also lightweight and foldable, making them simple to move. This makes them an ideal option for traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family, as you can easily put the crib away within a matter of minutes prior to leaving. The light construction may result in a less sturdy crib than traditional models. This could be a concern to some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has distinctive design if want it to stand out. There are cribs with sleek, minimalist design or made from something like bamboo or glass. It may also have clear sides to allow for easy access to. These are often more expensive than solid wood versions, but they can add a beautiful centerpiece to any nursery.
Some cribs have an older-fashioned style with elegant curves and molding, which is reminiscent of furniture from the past. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with gorgeous details. They are a great option when you're looking for the perfect crib that will be an heirloom for your family over time. They also work well with any design.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular design. It has smooth, straight lines with the light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty the wood to be seen. 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 especially important for babies who are still young and have difficulty sitting up. These cribs have drawers that can be used for storing wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as a canopy. They can add a touch of elegant to any nursery and keep your baby comfortable and cool during their sleep. Be sure, however, that the fabric you choose isn't too long or that it is securely fixed to the crib. This will ensure that your child doesn't reach out to grab the fabric and pull it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size beds is a great investment for any family. This feature lets you save money as you do not have to buy four separate beds as your child grows and it also helps to save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs also come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them easy to put together and use at any time.
When shopping for a new crib, keep in mind that most cribs include additional features like adjustable heights for the mattress or drawers. This allows you to alter your crib's look and functionality. It's especially beneficial in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs are equipped with wheels, which can be incredibly helpful if you need to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are generally constructed using durable, non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby and comply with the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have an elegant or contemporary design that can be adapted to a wide variety of nursery decor. top ranked cribs are made of wood and others are made from metal or painted steel. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins leach into the environment.
It takes some research and thought to choose the best convertible crib for you nursery. But, it's one that will last for years to come. Consider your options carefully and be sure to look at prices, delivery costs, setup times and other factors to make the best choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is a large piece of furniture that can have a significant impact on the design and feel of your baby's nursery. It is crucial to select a crib that fits your style or will go well with your room decor. This will make a huge impact on how you feel about your nursery.
In the same way, cribs designed to convert into daybeds for toddlers or toddlers extend their utility as your child grows, providing you long-term value. They are also less costly than a full-size bed and can be lent or sold to a relative once your child no longer has need.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, as the majority of the parts can be removed and cleaned and the majority have a conversion kit that makes it easy to turn them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs can stand up to a lot of use and are robust. Some even last through many children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring options which makes them more convenient to move around when changing sheets or adjusting mattress height. However, they could be more worn out and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning of toddlerhood, with one side that is softer for infants and a more firm side for toddlers. They're typically safer 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 alternatives.