10 Cribs Tricks Experts Recommend
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
A crib offers a dedicated sleeping space for infants to reduce the risk Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also helps to establish a regular sleep routine. Cribs also offer more flexibility than other options such as bassinets.
Whether you choose a contemporary style or a more traditional style Make sure it's GREENGUARD Gold certified to ensure it meets the highest safety standards and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Also, consider other features to determine the crib that's right for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent, the safety of your child is your top concern. You want your child to rest peacefully in a safe environment, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
These include slat spacing not more than 2 3/8 inches, to avoid your baby's legs, arms, or head from being trapped in the mattress; a mattress that is comfortable and firm without drop sides; a solid crib that is not prone to wobbling and clear instructions for assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streamers or pads, which could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC paint, a safer option in comparison to conventional glues or varnishes which release harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Also, select a crib free of ornaments and cutouts, which can cause injury when your child grasps them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. It is also important to ensure 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, sheepskins, or pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. They can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also pose dangerous, as they could be pulled over the baby and cause them to suffocate. 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 monitor them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A safe place for your baby's sleep is one of the most essential things you'll need. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your baby to rest, which can be especially useful when you're juggling other household chores or activities.
You'll probably find cribs at your local home goods store or nursery. 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 top quality crib. You'll have to consider a variety of factors before you buy the crib.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and babies that last beyond their first few months of life. A lot of cribs are convertible which allow you to transform the crib into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. This will save you money and extend its life.
The small size of cribs makes them perfect for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models include an adjustable table, which can be beneficial if your nursery is limited in space.
Travel cribs offer a similar level of convenience, as they're designed to be lightweight and easily foldable for transport. They are a great choice for traveling with your baby or visiting friends and family, as they can be easily packed up before you leave. However, the light construction of travel cribs can also result in less robust construction than standard cribs, which may be a problem for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has distinctive design if want it to stand out. You can find one that features sleek, minimalist designs or one that is constructed of a material like bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for a better access. These are often more expensive than solid wood alternatives however they can be an appealing focal point to any nursery.
Other cribs have traditional designs with elegant curves and moldings, as well as an appearance that reminds of heirloom pieces. They can be very elaborate, and are usually handmade with beautiful details. These are great options when you are looking for a crib that will become a beloved piece of furniture for your family over time and work with any theme.
Another style that is popular is a Scandinavian-style crib that has smooth straight lines and a light, unfinished wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are great for an modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood bare to match your decor.
Cribs that can serve as a combination of a changing table could make it much easier to change your baby, especially when they're young and have trouble sitting up on their own. These cribs come with drawers to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
Some cribs are bent or have designs on the side which can be used to create an effect of canopy. These can bring a touch of class to any nursery and are a great option to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. However, be sure that any fabric you use isn't too long, or that it's firmly connected to the 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 allows you to save money as you do not have to purchase four separate beds as your child grows, and it also helps to save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs are equipped with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it simple to utilize them as needed.
When you are looking for a new crib, keep in mind that most cribs come with additional features like adjustable heights for the mattress or drawers. This lets you modify the appearance and function of your crib, and can be especially useful if you're working with the smallest or most small amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels that can be extremely helpful in case you need to move the bed for cleaning or for any other reason.
Convertible cribs are generally constructed with durable, non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. Many cribs have an elegant or contemporary design that will suit different styles of nursery décor. Some cribs are constructed from wood as well as others made out of steel or painted. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs made of GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which ensures that no harmful toxins leach into the environment.
It will require some time and research to choose the best convertible crib for you nursery. However, it's a decision that will last for many years. Compare your options and compare prices as well as delivery times and other aspects before deciding.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby and has a major impact on the overall appearance and feel of the room. Because of good cribs , choosing one that matches your preference in style or fits well with the rest of your room's decor will make a big impact on how you feel about the nursery as you are there.
Similar to cribs that are designed to convert into daybeds for toddlers or toddlers extend their utility as your child grows, providing you a long-term benefit. They're also generally less expensive than larger beds and can be sold or given to a friend when your child no longer requires them.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, since most of the components can be cleaned and removed and the majority have a conversion kit that allows you to transform them into the appropriate size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand frequent use and are sturdy. Some can even last for many children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring mattresses which makes them easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting mattress height. However, they could wear out more quickly and need replacement earlier than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual firm or two-stage mattresses are designed to be used by infants and toddlers. One side is soft for infants while the other is firmer for toddlers. They are usually more secure than foam mattresses and can be more comfortable to older babies who don't like the sagging sensation of foam. They are also typically more affordable than innerspring options.