10 Unexpected Cribs Tips
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated sleeping area for infants to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also helps to establish a regular sleep routine. Cribs also provide more flexibility than other options like bassinets.
Whether you choose a contemporary design or a more traditional design, make sure it's GREENGUARD Gold certified to ensure it is in compliance with the highest safety standards and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Be aware of other aspects when selecting the crib that is suitable for your family.
1. Safety
As parents, the safety of your child is your top concern. You want your child to sleep peacefully in an environment free of hazards such as sharp edges or splinters. It's important to choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) strict standards.
This includes slat spacing that is no wider than 2 3/8 inches to avoid your baby's legs, arms or head from being trapped in the mattress; an appropriate mattress that is well-made and comfortable; no drop sides; a solid crib with no wobbling parts; and detailed assembly instructions. Avoid any bells and whistles such as bumper pads and streamers which could strangle your baby.
Look for cribs painted with low-VOC paint, which is a safer alternative to traditional varnishes or glues that release harmful chemicals. Look for mattresses made from non-toxic materials such as organic foam and cotton.
Pick a crib with no ornaments or cutouts. They can cause injury when your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Also, make sure that the mattress cover is secure and securely fitted to the crib frame and that there are no gaps between the mattress and the frame. You should also avoid putting pillows comforters, quilts 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 be dangerous, as they could be pulled towards the baby, causing them to choke. You should choose a mesh crib mobile that is breathable, instead of mobiles. This is more beneficial for your baby's health and allow you to monitor your baby while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure place for your baby to rest is one of the most important things you will need. Cribs are a great place for your baby to rest particularly when you are engaged in other household chores.
You'll likely find cribs in your local nursery or home goods store. These kinds of establishments must comply with strict regulations that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are usually the best place to start your search for a high-quality crib. You'll have to consider a variety of factors before you buy the crib.
Cribs are a fantastic option for infants, newborns and toddlers, providing an inviting sleeping space that will last for the first few years of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to transform cribs into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can reduce your costs and prolong the lifespan of the crib you purchase.
The small size of cribs makes them ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models also come with changing stations that can be helpful when you have a small space in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer a similar level of convenience, as they're designed to be light and foldable to make it easy to transport. They're a great option for traveling with your baby or visiting relatives and friends, as they can be easily packed and taken away. The lightweight construction can also make for a less sturdy crib than traditional models. This could be a cause of concern for some parents.
3. Style
Look for a crib with an original design if you want it to stand out. You can find one with an elegant, minimalist design or one made of a material such as bamboo or glass and features clear sides for easy access. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives however, they can be a beautiful centerpiece in any nursery.
Other cribs have a more traditional design with graceful curves and moldings. They also have an appearance that reminds of antique pieces. They can be very extravagant, and are generally handmade with beautiful details. They are a great option for an item that will be an integral piece of furniture in the course of time and will work well with any style.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian-style crib that has sleek straight lines and a light, naked wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. They're an excellent fit to any modern or contemporary nursery, and you can easily paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
These cribs can be used as a changing table making it easier to change your child. This is especially important for infants who are young and have difficulty sitting up. These models usually have drawers underneath to store wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs are bent or have designs on the side that can be used to create a canopy effect. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are a great option to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Make sure to choose a fabric that is not too long and is firmly attached to your 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'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 purchase four separate beds as your child grows, and also saves space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with simple-to-store conversion kits, making it simple to utilize them as needed.
When shopping for a crib that you want to buy, keep in mind that many models include additional features such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This lets you customize the look and functionality of your crib. It's especially beneficial when your nursery is limited in storage space. Some cribs are equipped with wheels that can be incredibly useful if you have to move the bed to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically made with durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby and meet stringent safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature modern or classic designs that can fit into a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood, while others are fabricated out of steel or painted. Some brands are committed sustainability, offering eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful toxins do not leach into the surrounding environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your child will take some time and thought however, it's an important decision that will be used for many years to come. Consider your options and compare the prices, delivery times, and other aspects before making a decision.
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 design and feel of the space. It is important to choose a crib that fits your style and will work perfectly with your decor. This can make a significant difference in how you feel about your nursery.
Similar to cribs that are designed to convert into daybeds for toddlers or toddlers increase their value as your child grows, giving you value over the long term. cots offers are also typically less expensive than full-size beds, and are able to be sold or given to a family member when your child no longer needs them.
Convertible cribs can also be easily maintained since the majority of parts can be taken off and cleaned, and some have a conversion kit that makes it easy to transform them into the perfect size bed for your child. Wood cribs can stand up to a lot of use and are durable. Some even last multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and are therefore easier to move around when changing sheets or altering the mattress's height. However, they may get worn out faster and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattress, are designed to be used by infants and toddlers. One side is soft for infants, while the other side is more rigid for toddlers. They're generally safer than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older children who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. These mattresses are also often cheaper than innerspring ones.