10 Cribs Tricks All Experts Recommend
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs provide a dedicated sleeping area for infants to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also encourages a consistent sleep routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, including bassinets.
Whether you go for modern or traditional style, be certain to confirm that it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals. Consider other features when choosing 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 sleep soundly in a safe and secure space that is free of dangers such as sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
There are a variety of things to look out for in a mattress, such as slat spacing which is no wider than 2 3/8 inch so your baby's arms or legs don't get trapped. Also a mattress that is an incredibly firm and comfortable fit and no drop sides stable cribs with no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Also, avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streams or pads, as they can present a strangulation risk for your baby.
Find a crib painted with low-VOC paints, a safer alternative to traditional glues and varnishes that release harmful chemicals into the air. Similarly, search for a mattress that is made of non-toxic materials such as cotton and organic foam.
Pick a crib with no ornaments or cutouts. They can cause injury should your child pick them up or gets their fingers stuck in them. Make sure that the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of the crib and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. You should also avoid putting pillows comforters, quilts pillows, sheepskins or similar stuffed toys in the crib, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Mobiles can also be dangerous, as they could fall down on the baby and cause them to choke. It is recommended to avoid using a mobile at all costs and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. online cots is more beneficial for your baby's health as well as allow you to keep an eye on your little one as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure place for your baby's sleep is among the most essential things you'll require. Cribs are an excellent place for your baby to sleep, especially when you are engaged in other household chores.
You'll probably find cribs at your local home goods store or nursery. These types of establishments have to adhere to strict guidelines set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are typically the best place to start your search for a top quality crib. If you want to buy a crib for your home, there are many things to consider prior to purchasing.
Cribs provide a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and newborns that will last beyond their first few months of life. Many cribs have convertible features that allow you to convert cribs into toddler beds or full-size beds, which will save you money and extend the life of the crib you purchase.
Another convenience factor of cribs is their small footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or lofts. Some models also come with changing stations that is a great option when you have a small space in your nursery.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them simple to move. This makes them an ideal option for traveling with your child, or when visiting family and friends since you can pack up the crib in just a few minutes prior to leaving. However, the lightweight construction of travel cribs may lead to less sturdy construction than standard models which could be a concern for some parents.
3. Style
Find a crib that has distinctive design if want it to stand out. You may find one that features an elegant, minimalist design or one made of a material such as bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for a better accessibility. These are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives, however, they can be a beautiful centerpiece in any nursery.
Other cribs offer an older-fashioned style with beautiful curves and molding, reminiscent of antique furniture. They can also be intricate and are often handcrafted with beautiful details. These are excellent options for a crib that will become a beloved piece of furniture for your family over time and can be paired with any theme.
A Scandinavian crib is another popular style. It has straight lines that are smooth and straight with the light, bare-wood finish. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. They're great for modern or contemporary nursery and you can paint them or leave them unpainted to complement your decor.
These cribs can be used as a changing table, making it easier to change your child. This is especially important for infants who are young and have trouble sitting up. These types of cribs typically have drawers beneath to store diapers, wipes and other necessities.
Some cribs are curving or have designs on the side that can be used to create an effect of canopy. They 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 fixed 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 bed, daybed or full-size bed is an excellent investment 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 also saves space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with conversion kits that store easily, making them simple to assemble and use at any time.
When looking for a brand crib for your child, bear in mind that most cribs include additional features such as adjustable heights for the mattress or drawers. This allows you to customize the look and function of your crib. It can be especially useful in the case of only a tiny or small amount of storage space in your nursery. Some cribs are equipped with wheels which can be extremely helpful if you need to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs are generally constructed with sturdy, non-toxic materials that are safe for your baby and meet the stringent safety standards established by the CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have a contemporary or classic design that will fit into a broad range of nursery decor. Some cribs are crafted from wood as well as others made from metal or painted steel. Certain brands are even committed to sustainability and offer eco-friendly cribs that use GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins are released into the environment.
It will require some time and research to select the ideal convertible crib for your nursery. But, it's one that will last for years to come. Take your time when evaluating your options, and be sure to look at prices, delivery costs, time to set up, among other things to make the right choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in your baby's nursery, and it has a big impact on the overall look and feel of the room. It is important to choose a crib that fits your style or goes well with your room decor. This can make a big impact on how you feel about your nursery.
As your child ages, cribs designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds will continue to be useful, giving you a long-term benefit. They are also less costly than a full-size beds and can be donated or sold to a friend when your child no longer has need.
Convertible cribs are also easily maintained, since most components can be removed and cleaned, and many have a conversion kit which makes it simple to transform them into the perfect size bed for your baby. Wood cribs are extremely durable and can withstand the demands of daily use, with some even lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses are less heavy than innerspring mattresses and are easier to maneuver when changing sheets or altering the mattress's height. However, they can get worn out faster and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also known as dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning to toddlerhood, having one side that is softer for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They are typically safer than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable for older babies who don't like the sagging feeling of foam. These mattresses are also often cheaper than innerspring ones.