A Step-By-Step Guide To Cribs From Beginning To End
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib offers a dedicated sleeping area for infants to decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also provide more flexibility than other options such as bassinets.
If you decide to go with a modern design or a traditional one, make certain to confirm that it is GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposures to toxic chemicals. Consider other features when choosing the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent you are responsible for the safety of your baby is a top priority. You want your child to sleep peacefully in an environment free of hazards such as sharp edges or splinters. Pick a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
There are numerous things to look for, including slat spacing that is no wider than 2 3/8 inches so your baby's legs or arms don't get trapped. Also a mattress that is a firm, snug fit with no drop sides; stable cribs with no wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, for example bumper streamers or pads, which could cause strangulation for your baby.
Find a crib that has been painted with low-VOC paint which is a safer alternative to glues and varnishes that emit harmful chemicals into the air. Similarly, search for a mattress that is made using non-toxic materials, like organic cotton and foam.
Lastly, choose a crib free of decorative embellishments and cutouts, which can cause injury in the event that your child grabs them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. You should also check that the mattress cover is secure and securely fitted to the crib frame and that there are no gaps between the mattress and the frame. It is also recommended to avoid placing pillows comforters, quilts and sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib because they can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose a danger, as they can be pulled over the baby, causing them to choke. You should opt for a crib mattress made of mesh that is breathable instead of mobiles. This is better for the health of your baby and allows you to watch over them while they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure space for your baby to rest is among the most essential things you'll need. Cribs are a great place for your baby to rest, 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 comply with strict regulations that are set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are usually the best place to start your search for a high-quality crib. You'll need to consider a variety of aspects before purchasing the crib.
Cribs are a fantastic option for newborns, infants and toddlers, providing a comfortable sleeping area that lasts well beyond their first few years of existence. Many cribs come with convertible features that allow you to transform them into toddler beds or full-size beds, which can help you save money and extend the life of your crib purchase.
The compact size of cribs makes them ideal for small spaces such as lofts or apartments. Some models come with a changing table, which is beneficial if your nursery is limited in space.
Travel cribs provide a similar level of comfort, since they're designed to be lightweight and foldable for easy transport. This makes them a great choice when traveling with your child, or when visiting family and friends since you can pack up the crib within a matter of minutes prior to leaving. However, cot sale of travel cribs can also lead to less sturdy construction than standard models which could be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that will stand out in a room, look for a model that has a distinctive style. You can find a crib with a minimalist, sleek design or constructed from a material such as glass or bamboo. It could also have clear sides that allow for easy viewing. They tend to be more expensive than solid wood alternatives however they can be a beautiful centerpiece to any nursery.
Some cribs have a more traditional look with graceful curves and moldings, reminiscent of furniture from the past. 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 will become a beloved piece of furniture in the course of time and can be paired with any theme.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian-style crib that has straight lines that are smooth and a light, unfinished wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are ideal for a modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave them unfinished to fit in with 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. They usually have drawers underneath to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
Some cribs are bent or have designs on the sides which can be used to create a canopy effect. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery and keep your baby comfortable and cool as they sleep. However, be sure that the fabric you choose to use isn't too long, or that it's firmly connected to the crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.
4. Convertibility
A crib that transforms into a toddler bed, daybed, and 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 also frees up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that can be stored easily, making them simple to assemble and use at any time.
When looking for a brand crib that you want to buy, keep in mind that a lot of cribs include additional features such as adjustable heights for the mattress or drawers. This allows you to alter the appearance and function of your crib. It is especially useful in the case of a nursery with limited storage space. Some cribs are equipped with wheels which can be extremely useful when you need to move the bed around to clean or for other reasons.
Convertible cribs are typically constructed from durable non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs feature a classic or contemporary design that can be adapted to a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood, whereas others can be constructed from stainless steel or painted metal. Certain brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs that use GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
It will take some research and thought to choose the best convertible crib for your nursery. But, it's one that will last for years. Consider your options and evaluate the prices, delivery times, and other aspects before settling on a choice.
5. Value
The crib is a large piece of furniture that will make a significant impact on the design and feel of the nursery of your baby. Because of that, choosing one that is in line with your preferred style or fits well with the rest of your room decor can make a huge impact on how you feel about the nursery when you are there.
As your child grows older cribs that are designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds are still useful and provide you with an advantage over time. They are also typically less expensive than full-size beds, and can be traded in or donated to a family member when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, since most of the components are easily removed and cleaned and many have an conversion kit that makes it easier to transform them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand a lot of use and are robust. Some even last through many children.
Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives, making them easier to move when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, they may be more worn out and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called dual firm) are designed to be used from beginning to toddlerhood, having 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 for older children who don't want the sagging sensation of foam. These mattresses are also often more affordable than innerspring options.