10 Quick Tips About Cribs Beds
Choosing Cribs Beds For Your Baby
Sleep is an essential aspect of your baby’s life. A crib can aid your baby in developing the habit of sleeping on their own, and ensure your safety in the evening.
There are a variety of cribs, each with varying sizes styles, designs, and mattress support heights. We looked for cribs that are safe, easy to use, and in line with the latest design trends.
Size
A crib is a bed specifically designed for infants and babies. There are many different types of cribs, but they all are smaller than a toddler's mattress and offer a safe place to sleep for your child. Some cribs are on wheels, so they can be moved around the house. They are generally designed to decrease SIDS risk by providing a cozy and safe environment that is similar to that of the womb.
Some parents will want to keep their baby in the crib as long as they can, while others may be ready to switch them to a toddler's bed sooner. The most popular crib is the standard crib. It can be used for your child's first year until they reach 18 months old, or can be removed.
There are also bassinets that can be used from birth to four months, or until the baby is large for it. They are smaller and more compact than cribs, but can offer the comfort and closeness to parents that some infants need during their first few months. They also come in smaller sizes, making them a good alternative if you're not certain which bedding type your child would prefer.
To ensure your child's safety, cribs and bassinets both have safety guidelines. There should not be a gap larger than two fingers between a crib's frame and mattress and the slats should not be sagging or missing. In addition, the bed should not have cutouts on the headboard or footboard, because they could hold a child's head and legs and increase the chance of being suffocated.
You can purchase cribs in a variety of designs and colors. Some come with integrated shelves or changing tables. If you intend to breastfeed, these cribs can be extremely convenient since you can nurse your baby in the crib. If, however, you are not a lot of space and have an extremely limited budget you can find cribs that just feature the essentials.
If you're willing invest a little more, you can buy cribs that can be converted into toddler beds, daybeds or sofas. These are typically referred to as 4-in-1 cribs. They can be an ideal option for parents who don't wish to purchase an entirely new crib each time their child outgrows their crib they currently have.
Style
As you look for the perfect crib, think about the style of the crib in relation to the decor of your baby's nursery. You may want to select a crib that matches the overall theme of your home, whether it's contemporary or rustic. There are many cribs available in various shapes and styles and with natural wood or colored finishes.
Cribs are safe sleeping places for babies. Initially, they were simply cradles which could be rocked. As awareness of child safety increased, stationary cribs became the norm, and the designs changed to provide better protection from falls or entrapment. Today's cribs are built with features like sturdy construction, the right spacing of slats and non-toxic materials. They are designed to ensure your baby's well-being and safety.
To make life easier For convenience, you can also locate cribs with shelves and a changing table unit. This type crib is not suitable for infants who are not yet ready to climb or stand. It can make it easier to escape.
Some cribs have adjustable mattress support heights, meaning you can lower it as your baby grows. The higher setting is great for babies, and the lower position should be used prior to when your baby learns to sit up or roll in bed, which typically happens by the time they turn one year old.
The mattress of a crib can be set on a single-piece board, a grid of wood slats or a spring-wire frame. Both What to Expect, and Baby Bargains recommend a steel spring frame as it is more durable than wooden slats which can break or loosen with time. The base should be solid and securely attached to the crib so that it does not allow air to circulate over the mattress, which could pose a potential suffocation risk for infants.
If you are planning to keep your baby in the crib as long as possible then think about a 4-in-1 crib that can be transformed into an infant's bed, a daybed, and eventually, a full-size bed. They typically have rails that are removable, making the transition from a crib to an ordinary mattress much easier. They also come with adjustable levels for the mattress.
Safety
It's important to choose cribs that meet strict safety standards, irrespective of the style or design you choose. In the United States, this includes certifications from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and compliance with ASTM International standards. Check for these certifications on the crib's packaging or description. Also, look over recommended cribs to see whether there are any wood or paint defects that could pose danger for your baby.
If you're planning to purchase an additional crib mattress for your baby's bed opt for the most sturdy one you can find. This will reduce the risk of accidental death due to the suffocation. Be sure that the mattress fits snugly within the crib. A mattress that's too large or too small could pose a hazard, as your baby may get trapped between the mattress and the headboard or the sides of the crib.
There are reports of accidents that are not fatal, including 21 reported deaths identified by the NPR, and two additional reported deaths received during the NPR Update, are based on a crib bed that is too soft. These incidents involve a variety of hazards, including gaps between the mattress and the crib's side or the footboard and head that can cause entrapment dangers as well as infants who roll onto or becoming wedged between the mattress and the wall or headboard pillows and blankets that pose risk of suffocation; mattresses that are too hot, causing infants to suffer burns, rashes and other health issues.
Some manufacturers now offer "breathable" crib mattresses, which they claim promote the safety of sleep and stop breathing in baby's own carbon dioxide, which is believed to contribute to SIDS. However there is no evidence from an epidemiological perspective that breathable mattresses decrease the risk of SIDS.
Conversion
When you add a new baby to your family, you'll likely need to buy lots of new items. This includes everything from clothing to toys to nursery furniture. Investing in cribs that can be converted into toddler beds or full-size beds could aid in saving money on furniture purchases and help make the transition from infant to childhood easier for your child as well as your family. These conversion kits can be purchased for many brands of cots and include an adjustable headboard and footboard. Some models are GREENGUARD Gold Certified that means they have low emissions of chemicals, which makes for an environment that is healthier.
It is important to choose the best mattress for your child's crib, whether it be a convertible crib or a standard crib. This will ensure they have an enjoyable sleeping. Choose between foam, innerspring, or gel mattresses that are available in a variety of sizes to meet your needs. Select a mattress that is at least 2 3/8 inches thick or an innerspring bed that meets the safety standards of the federal government.
When your child is ready to move on from the crib, you'll need to purchase a toddler bed or a full-size bed conversion kit. It is recommended that you have this in place before your child turns two to ensure the process is smooth and your child is at ease with the new transition. Once you have your crib mattress and kit, it will take two people less than 30 minutes to transform the crib into an adult size bed.
A few things can help make the transition to a toddler bed more comfortable for your child. These include keeping the bedroom decor and bedding constant and putting the toddler bed into the same room as their crib. Offering your child a selection of toys, stuffed animals or other to sleep with, and encouraging them to sleep at a regular schedule will help them settle.
A crib that converts into a full-size bed is an excellent way to prolong the life of your investment. It also gives you an extra bed for your child. Conversion kits are available in many styles to match other furniture and are compatible with a wide range of mattresses including twin or full size.