15 Startling Facts About Cribs That You Didn't Know About
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with a dedicated sleep space to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and helps to establish a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with modern or traditional one, make sure to verify that it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to toxic chemicals. Also, consider other features to find the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your child's security is of the utmost importance. You want your child to sleep peacefully in a safe and secure space and free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. Pick a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
This includes slat spacing that is less than 2 3/8 inches, to avoid your baby's head, arms or legs from getting trapped and an appropriate mattress that is firm and snug-fitting; no drop sides; a sturdy crib that has no wobbling parts and clear assembly instructions. You should also avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streams or pads, as they could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Find a crib that is painted with low-VOC paints which is a safer alternative to glues and varnishes that emit harmful chemicals into the air. Similarly, consider a mattress constructed of non-toxic materials such as organic cotton and foam.
Pick a crib with no ornaments or cutouts. These can cause injury when your child grabs them, or gets their fingers stuck in them. It is also important to ensure that the mattress cover is secure and tightly fitted to the crib frame and that there are no gaps between the frame and the mattress. Avoid putting blankets, pillows or sheepskins or pillow-like stuffed animals in the crib. These can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a hazard, as they can be pushed down on the baby, causing the baby to suffocate. You should opt for a crib mattress made of mesh that is breathable instead of mobiles. This is healthier for the health of your baby and allows you to monitor them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most essential things your baby needs is an area that is safe to sleep in. Cribs are a wonderful 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 establishments must adhere to strict guidelines laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal place to start your search for a top-quality crib. You'll need to take into consideration several aspects before purchasing the crib.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and babies that last beyond their first few months of life. Many models feature convertible features that let you convert cribs into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can help you save money and extend the life of your crib purchase.
Another advantage of cribs is their compact footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some cribs also have a changing station that is a great option when you have a small space in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer a similar level of comfort, since they're designed to be lightweight and easily foldable for transport. This makes them an excellent option when you're traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family since you can pack up the crib in a few minutes before leaving. The light construction may result in a less sturdy crib than traditional models. This may be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will make a statement in a room, look for a model that has a distinctive style. There are cribs with a minimalist, sleek style or made of materials like glass or bamboo. It may also feature clear sides that allow for easy observation. They are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives however, they can make a beautiful accent to any nursery.
Some cribs feature traditional designs with graceful curves and moldings. They also have a look that is reminiscent of antique pieces. They can also be extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with stunning details. They are a great option for a crib that will become a beloved piece of furniture for your family over time and work with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular design. It features straight lines that are smooth and straight with the light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty the wood to be seen. These cribs are perfect for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to match your decor.
Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table can help you change your baby, especially when they're young and have trouble sitting up on their own. These models have drawers to store wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs have curved sides or designs that can be used as an umbrella. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery, and will keep your baby comfortable and cool while they sleep. Make sure you use a fabric that is not too long and firmly attached to your 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 bed is a fantastic investment for any family. This feature lets you save money by not having to purchase four separate beds as your child grows and it also helps to save space in the nursery. A lot of convertible cribs are also equipped with conversion kits that store easily, making them simple to set up and use at any time.
Another important thing to consider when shopping for a crib is that many cribs have additional features, like adjustable mattress heights and drawers. This will allow you to customize the look and function of your crib, and can be especially useful if you're working with the smallest or most limited amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels that can be very helpful in case you need to move the bed around for cleaning or any other reason.
Convertible cribs typically are made from sturdy non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have a contemporary or classic design that can be adapted to a wide range of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood, while others are fabricated from metal or painted steel. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
It will take some time and effort to select the ideal convertible crib for you nursery. However, it is a decision that will last for years. Look at your options and compare prices and delivery times as well as other aspects before settling on a choice.
5. Value
The crib is a large piece of furniture that will have a major impact on the appearance and feel of the nursery of your baby. Because of that, choosing one that is in line with your preferred style or one that works well with the other decor elements in your room can make a significant impact on how you feel about the nursery as you are there.
As your child gets older, cribs designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds are still useful and provide you with an advantage over time. They're also generally less costly than full-size beds, and can be sold or given to a relative when your child no more requires them.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain, since most of the parts are easily removed and cleaned and the majority have a conversion kit that makes it easier to convert them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand frequent use and are sturdy. Some even last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives and are easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress's height. They may wear out faster and need replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattresses are designed to be used by babies and toddlers. One side is soft for the infants while the other side is firmer for toddlers. They're typically more secure than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older babies who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. They are also typically cheaper than innerspring alternatives.