A Step-By-Step Guide To Cribs From Beginning To End
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an area for sleeping that is specifically designed to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and helps to establish a consistent sleep routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with modern or traditional one, make sure to check if it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals. Then consider other features to determine the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your baby's security is of the utmost importance. You want your child to sleep comfortably in a safe environment free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that meets 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 baby's legs and arms do not get caught. Also a mattress that is a firm and snug fit; no drop sides; stable cribs with no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. You should also avoid bells and whistles, like bumper streams or pads, as they could cause strangulation for your baby.
Choose a crib that has been painted with low-VOC paint which is a safer alternative to traditional glues and varnishes which release harmful chemicals into the air. Also, search for a mattress that is made with non-toxic materials, like organic cotton and foam.
Finally, pick a crib that is free of decorative embellishments and cutouts, which can cause injury if your baby is able to grab them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Make sure that the mattress cover fits tightly to the frame of the crib and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. Avoid placing blankets, pillows or sheepskins, as well as similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. These could increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose risky, since they can be pulled over the baby and cause them to choke. Ideally, you should avoid the use of mobiles completely and choose a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is healthier for the health of your baby and lets you supervise them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A safe place for your baby to sleep is among the most essential things you'll need. Cribs are a great place for your baby to relax, which can be particularly helpful when you're juggling other household chores or other activities.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or at the home goods store. These types of establishments must follow strict guidelines that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are generally the best place to begin your search for a quality crib. You'll need to take into consideration several aspects prior to purchasing the crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping space for toddlers, infants and newborns that last well beyond the first few 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 your crib purchase.
Another benefit of cribs is their compact footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models also include an area for changing which could be useful when you have a small space in your nursery.
Travel cribs offer the same level of comfort, since they're designed to be light and easily foldable for transport. This makes them a great option when you're traveling with your child or visiting family and friends because you can easily take the crib down in a few minutes before leaving. best crib can also result in a less durable crib than traditional models. This may be a cause of concern for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will make a statement in a room Look for a crib with a unique style. You can find a crib with sleek, minimalist design or constructed from a material such as glass or bamboo. It may also feature clear sides to allow for easy viewing. They are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives however, they can make an attractive centerpiece to any nursery.
Other cribs feature traditional designs with graceful curves and moldings, reminiscent of heirloom furniture. They can also be quite elaborate and are typically handcrafted with beautiful details. These are excellent options when you're looking for a crib that can become an heirloom for your family over time. They can also be paired with any style.
A Scandinavian crib is another popular design. It is characterized by smooth, straight lines with an ethereal, bare-wood look. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. These cribs are ideal for an modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to fit in with your decor.
These cribs can be used as a changing table making it easier to change your child. This is especially true for babies who are still young and may have trouble sitting up. These models typically come with drawers underneath to store wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs are curving or have designs on the sides which can be used to create a canopy effect. These can provide a touch of luxury to any nursery and are a great way to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Make sure to choose a fabric that is not too long and is securely 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 converts into a toddler's crib, a daybed, or a full-size bed is a great option for any family. This feature will save you money from buying four separate beds throughout your child's development and also save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs also come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them simple to put together and use when the time comes.
Another thing to keep in mind when you're looking for cribs is that a lot of models have additional features, like drawers or adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to customize the appearance and function of your crib. This is particularly useful in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs have wheels that are extremely useful when you need to move the bed around for cleaning or for any other reason.
Convertible cribs are generally made from sturdy non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the rigorous safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs also feature 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 out of steel or painted. Some brands are even committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your nursery will require some time and effort, but it is an important decision that can last for years to come. Look at your options and compare prices, delivery times, and other factors before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is the largest piece of furniture in your baby's nursery and has a major impact on the overall appearance and feel of the room. This is why choosing one that matches your preferred style or one that works well with the rest of your room's decor can make a significant difference in how you feel about the nursery when you are there.
As your child gets older cribs that can be converted into toddler beds or daybeds can be used for a long time providing you with the long-term benefits. They are also typically less expensive than larger beds and can be traded in or donated to a friend when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, as the majority of the components can be removed and cleaned and the majority have a conversion kit that makes it easier to transform them into the proper size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand a lot of use and are durable. Some even last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and can be easier to maneuver when changing sheets or altering the mattress height. However, they can wear out more quickly and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning of toddlerhood, with a side that's softer for infants and a more firm side for toddlers. They're typically more secure than foam mattresses and can be more comfortable for older infants who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. These mattresses are also often cheaper than innerspring ones.