Cribs 101: Your Ultimate Guide For Beginners
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib provides infants with an exclusive sleeping space to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and helps to establish a consistent sleeping routine. Cribs also offer more flexibility than other options like bassinets.
Whether you go for modern or traditional one, make certain to confirm that it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to toxic chemicals. Consider other features to find the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, your baby's safety is a top priority. You want your baby to rest peacefully in a secure environment and free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It is essential 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 inches to ensure your baby's arms or legs do not get caught. Also you should look for a mattress that has a firm, snug fit and no drop sides stable cribs with no wobbling parts and detailed instructions on assembly. Avoid bells and whistles, like bumper streamers or pads, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Look for cribs with low-VOC, an alternative to traditional varnishes or glues which emit harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Also, select a crib free of decorative ornaments and cutouts that could cause injury when your child is able to grab them or gets their fingers stuck in them. You should also check that the mattress cover is securely fit to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't gaps between the mattress and the frame. You should also avoid putting pillows comforters, quilts, sheepskins or pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Mobiles are also risky, since they can be pulled down on the baby, causing them to suffocate. Ideally, you should avoid a mobile completely and choose a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This will be better for your baby's health and will let you keep an eye on your child while they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most important things your baby will require is an area that is safe to sleep in. Cribs are a great place for your little one to relax, which can be especially useful when you're busy with other household chores or activities.
You can find cribs at your local nursery or at the home goods store. These establishments must abide by strict guidelines laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal location to start your search for a high-quality crib. If you're looking to purchase a crib for your home, there are a few things to consider prior to purchasing.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and newborns that will last well beyond the first few months of life. Many cribs come with convertible features that let you transform them into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can help you save money and extend the lifespan of the crib you purchase.
Another benefit of cribs is their small footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some models include a changing table, which can be beneficial if your nursery is limited in space.
They are also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to move. They're an excellent choice for taking your baby on a trip or visiting relatives and friends since they can be easily packed into a suitcase before you leave. However, the lightweight design of travel cribs may result in less robust construction than standard cribs which could be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Look for a crib with a unique design if you want it to stand out. It could be one that features an elegant, minimalist design or one that is constructed of a material like glass or bamboo and features clear sides for easy visibility. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however they can be a stunning focal piece in any nursery.
Other cribs have an older style with elegant curves and moldings, as well as the look of antique pieces. They can also be quite extravagant and are usually hand-crafted with beautiful details. They are an excellent choice if you're looking for a crib that can become a family heirloom over time. They can also go well with any style.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian-style crib with straight lines that are smooth and a light, unfinished wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. They're great to any modern or contemporary nursery, and you can paint them or leave them as is to match your decor.
Cribs that combine the function of a changing table can make it easier to change your baby, especially when they're younger and have trouble sitting up on their own. These types of cribs usually have drawers underneath to store wipes, diapers and other necessities.
Some cribs are curved or have designs on the sides that can be used to create a canopy effect. They can provide a touch of luxury to any nursery and are an excellent method to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. However, be sure that any fabric you use is not too long or is securely fixed to the crib. This will ensure your child can't reach out and grasp the fabric and pull it back.
4. Convertibility
A crib that can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed or a full-size bed can be incredibly 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 use them when required.
When you are looking for a crib that you want to buy, keep in mind that many models include additional features such as adjustable heights for the mattress or drawers. This will allow you to modify the appearance and function of your crib, and can be particularly useful if you're working with only a tiny or limited amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs come with wheels that can be very helpful in case you need to move the bed for cleaning or any other reason.
Convertible cribs are usually constructed with durable non-toxic, non-toxic materials which are safe for your baby and meet the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature a classic or contemporary design that can fit into a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed of wood, while others may be constructed of stainless steel painted or metal. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs that use GREENGUARD GOLD certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leach into the environment.
Choosing the best convertible crib for your baby will require some time and effort however it is an important choice that could be used for many years to come. Consider your options and compare prices as well as delivery times and other aspects before settling on a choice.
5. Value
The crib is the most important piece of furniture in your baby's nursery and has a major impact on the overall design and feel of the space. It is important to choose a crib that matches your style and will work well with your room decor. This will make a huge impact on how you feel about your nursery.
In the same way, cribs designed to transform into daybeds or toddler beds can be used as your child grows, providing you value over the long term. They're also generally less costly than full-size beds and can be sold or given to a relative when your child no longer needs them.
Convertible cribs can be easily maintained, since most parts can be taken off and cleaned, and many come with a conversion set that makes it easy to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely sturdy and can withstand stress of regular use, with some even last through multiple children.
mini cot beds can be lighter than innerspring options, making them easier to move when changing sheets or adjusting mattress height. However, they can wear out more quickly and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning through toddlerhood, with one side that is softer for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They are generally more secure than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable to older children who don't like the sagging sensation of foam. They are also typically cheaper than innerspring ones.