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 encourages a regular routine of sleeping. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, like bassinets.
Whether you choose a contemporary style or a more traditional design, make sure it's GREENGUARD Gold certified to ensure it adheres to the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to toxic chemicals. Be aware of other aspects when selecting 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 peacefully in an environment free of hazards such as sharp edges or splinters. It is essential to select a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) strict standards.
There are a variety of things to look out for in a mattress, such as slat spacing which isn't more than 2 3/8 inch so your baby's arms or legs aren't entangled. Also you should look for a mattress that has an incredibly firm and comfortable fit with no drop sides; stable cribs with no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Avoid any bells and whistles such as bumper pads and streamers that can strangle your baby.
Look for cribs with low-VOC varnish, which is an alternative than traditional glues or varnishes which emit harmful chemicals. Similarly, look for a mattress made using non-toxic materials, such as organic cotton and foam.
Lastly, choose a crib that is free of decorative ornaments and cutouts, which can cause injury when your child grabs them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. Also, make sure that the mattress cover is secure and securely fit to the frame of the crib and that there aren't gaps between the mattress and the frame. Avoid putting blankets, pillows or sheepskins or pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. These could increase the risk for your baby to develop SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a risk, since they could be pushed down on the baby and cause suffocation. It is recommended to choose a mesh crib mobile that is breathable rather than a mobile. This is better for the health of your baby and allows you to supervise them as they sleep.
2. Cot Bed Cots For Tots UK for your baby's sleep is among the most essential things you will need. Cribs provide a convenient spot for your baby to rest, which can be particularly useful when you're busy tending to other household chores or other activities.
You can find cribs in your local nursery or home goods store. They must follow strict regulations set out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the best place to begin your search for a top-quality crib. You'll have to consider a variety of factors before you buy a crib.
Cribs are a great option for newborns, infants and toddlers, providing an inviting sleeping space that will last well beyond the initial years 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 lifespan of your crib purchase.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their compact footprint, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some cribs come with the option of a changing table, which is beneficial if your nursery is restricted in space.
Travel cribs offer the same 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 visiting friends and family, as you can easily take the crib down in just a few minutes prior to leaving. The light construction may result in a less durable crib than the standard ones. This might be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with distinctive design if want it to stand out. It could be one with a sleek, minimalist design or one made of a material such as bamboo or glass, and features clear sides for easy visibility. 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 beautiful curves and moldings, as well as the look of heirloom pieces. They can be quite extravagant, and are generally handcrafted with beautiful details. These are excellent options when you're looking for a crib that can become an important family heirloom in the future. They can also go well with any style.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian crib with straight lines that are smooth and a light, naked wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. They're a good fit for any modern or contemporary nursery, and you can easily paint them or leave them as is to match your decor.
Cribs that can serve as a combination of a changing table could help you change your baby, especially when they're young and have trouble sitting up on their own. These models usually have drawers underneath to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs are curved or have designs on the side which can be used to create a canopy effect. These can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are a fantastic way to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. Be sure to use fabric that is not too long and is firmly attached to your crib. This will ensure your child isn't able to reach out and grab the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that converts into a toddler's bed, a daybed or a full-size bed is a great option for any family. This feature lets you save money by not having to buy four separate beds as your child grows and also frees up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs are equipped with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it simple to make use of them whenever required.
Another important thing to consider when shopping for cribs is that a lot of cribs have additional features, such as drawers or adjustable mattress heights. This lets you modify the appearance and function of your crib, and can be particularly beneficial if you're working with the smallest or most limited storage space in your nursery. Some cribs even have wheels which can be extremely helpful if you need to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are constructed from durable, non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature a classic or contemporary design that can fit into different styles of nursery décor. Some cribs are constructed from wood and others are made from steel or painted. Certain brands are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly cribs made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful toxins are not absorbed into the environment.
It will require some time and effort to choose the most suitable convertible crib for your nursery. However, it is an investment that will last for years. Compare your options and compare prices and delivery times as well as other aspects before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in your baby's nursery, and it has a major impact on the overall appearance and feel of the space. It is crucial to select a crib that fits your style or will go well with the decor of your room. This can make a significant impact on how you feel about your nursery.
As your child grows older, cribs designed to convert into daybeds or toddler beds will continue to be useful and provide you with a long-term benefit. They are also less costly than full-size bed and can be given or sold to a family member once your child no longer has need of.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, since most of the components can be cleaned and removed and many have a conversion kit that makes it easier to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs can stand up to a lot of use and are durable. Some even last several children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options and are easier to move around when changing sheets or altering the mattress's height. However, they can wear out more quickly and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called two-stage or 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 safer than foam mattresses, and are more comfortable for older babies who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. These mattresses are also often cheaper than innerspring alternatives.