What Experts In The Field Want You To Know
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an exclusive sleeping space to decrease the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and promotes a consistent sleeping routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, including bassinets.
If you decide to go with an innovative design or a traditional one, make sure to verify that it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Also, consider other features to find the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As parents, the safety of your child is your top concern. You want your child to sleep comfortably in a safe environment free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that is in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) strict standards.
These include slat spacing less than 2 3/8 inches to avoid your baby's legs, arms, or head from getting stuck and a mattress that is well-made and comfortable with no drop sides; a solid crib that is not prone to wobbling and clear assembly instructions. Also, avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streams or pads, as they could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Choose a crib painted with low-VOC paint that is a safer choice to traditional glues and varnishes which release harmful chemicals into the air. In addition, you should look for a mattress made with non-toxic materials, such as cotton and organic foam.
Select a crib that does not have decorative embellishments or cutouts. These can cause injury should your child pick them up, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame. It is also recommended to avoid placing pillows comforters, quilts and sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib, since they could increase your baby's risk of SIDS. Mobiles are also a danger, as they can be pulled over the baby, causing them to suffocate. It is recommended to avoid using a mobile at all costs and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This will be better for your baby's health as well as allow you to monitor your little one as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most essential things your baby needs is a secure place to sleep. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your little one to rest, which can be particularly useful when you're busy tending to other household chores or other activities.
You'll probably find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These kinds of establishments must follow strict guidelines that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are usually 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 the crib.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and newborns that will last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs have convertible features that let you transform cribs into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can save you money and extend the lifespan of your crib purchase.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their small footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models also come with a changing station that could be useful in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them easy to transport. They are a great choice for taking your baby on a trip or visiting family and friends because they are easy to pack up before you leave. However, the light construction of travel cribs may cause less durable construction than standard cribs which could be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has distinctive design if want it to stand out. You can find a crib with a minimalist, sleek design or made from materials like glass or bamboo. It could also have clear sides to allow for easy viewing. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood versions however they can be an appealing focal point to any nursery.
Other cribs feature traditional designs with beautiful curves and moldings, reminiscent of heirloom furniture. They can be very elaborate, and are usually made by hand with exquisite details. These are great options when you are looking for a crib that can become an integral piece of furniture in the course of time and can be paired with any theme.
Another popular style is a Scandinavian-style crib that has sleek straight lines and a light, bare wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are great for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood bare to match your decor.
Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table can help you change your baby, particularly when they're young and struggle to sit up on their own. These models typically come with drawers underneath to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs have curved sides or designs that can be used as an umbrella. These 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 you use a fabrics that are not too long and tightly anchored to your crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be converted into a toddler's bed an adult daybed or a large bed can be extremely useful for any family. This feature will help you save money by not buying four separate beds throughout your child's growth and will also free up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it simple to make use of them whenever required.
Another thing to keep in mind when you're looking for a crib is that many models have additional features, such as drawers or adjustable mattress heights. This will allow you to modify the appearance and function of your crib, and can be especially useful when you have a small or limited amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs come with wheels that are extremely useful when you need to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are made from sturdy non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have a contemporary or classic design that can suit a wide selection of nursery décor. Some cribs are made from wood, while others may be constructed of stainless steel painted or metal. Certain brands are committed to sustainable development, offering eco-friendly cribs that are made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins are not absorbed into the environment.
cots 4 tots for your baby will take some time and effort however, it's an important decision that can last for a long time. Consider your options carefully, and be sure to evaluate prices, delivery and setup times and other factors to make the best decision for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby, and it has a big impact on the overall look and feel of the space. It is crucial to select a crib that matches your style and will work perfectly with your decor. This will make a huge impact on how you feel about your nursery.
Similarly, cribs that are designed to be converted into toddler beds or daybeds can be used as your child grows, providing you a long-term benefit. They're also generally less expensive than larger beds and are able to be sold or given to a friend when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs are also simple to maintain, as the majority of the parts can be cleaned and removed and many have a conversion kit that makes it easy to turn them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are especially sturdy and can withstand demands of daily use, with some lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring alternatives, making them easier to move when changing sheets or adjusting mattress height. However, cots and tots can be more worn out and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning through toddlerhood, with one side that is softer for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They're generally safer than foam mattresses and can be more comfortable for older children who dislike the sagging sensation of foam. They are also typically cheaper than innerspring alternatives.