The Lesser-Known Benefits Of Cribs
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated sleeping space for infants to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, like bassinets.
Whether you choose a contemporary design or a more traditional style, make sure it's GREENGUARD Gold certified to ensure that it is in compliance with the highest safety standards and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Then consider other options to choose the perfect crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent your baby's safety is a top priority. You want your child to rest peacefully in an environment free of dangers like sharp edges or splinters. It's important to choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.
These include slat spacing less than 2 3/8 inches to prevent your baby's legs, arms, or head from becoming stuck; a mattress that is comfortable and firm without drop sides; a stable crib that has no wobbling parts and clear assembly instructions. Avoid any bells and whistles such as bumper pads and streamers which could strangle your baby.
Find a crib that has been coated with low-VOC paints, a safer alternative to traditional varnishes and glues that emit harmful chemicals into the air. Find mattresses made of non-toxic materials like organic foam and cotton.
Finally, pick a crib that is devoid of decorative embellishments and cutouts that could cause injury if your baby is able to grab them or gets his or her fingers stuck in them. Also, make sure that the mattress cover is secure and tightly fitted to the crib frame and that there aren't gaps between the frame and the mattress. Avoid putting blankets, pillows or sheepskins or similar stuffed animals to pillows in the crib. These can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles are also risky, since they can be pulled down on the baby, causing them to choke. It is recommended to avoid using a mobile at all costs and opt for a more breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is healthier for the health of your baby and lets you monitor them as they sleep.
2. Convenience
A secure place for your baby to 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 kinds of establishments must follow strict guidelines established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and are generally the best place to start your search for a quality crib. You'll need to consider a variety of aspects prior to purchasing the crib.
Cribs offer a comfortable sleeping area for toddlers, infants and newborns that will last well beyond the initial months of life. A lot of cribs are convertible, allowing you to convert the crib into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. This will save you money and prolong its lifespan.
Another benefit of cribs is their compact footprint which makes them ideal for smaller spaces such as apartments or lofts. Some models also include changing stations that could be useful in the event that you are limited on space in your nursery.
Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them easy to move. This makes them a great choice when traveling with your child or visiting friends and family since you can put the crib away in a few minutes before leaving. However, the light construction of travel cribs can also lead to less sturdy construction than standard models, which may be an issue for some parents.
3. Style
If you're looking for a crib that can stand out in a room choose a crib with a unique style. You can find one with a sleek, minimalist design or one that is constructed of a material like bamboo or glass, and has clear sides for easy accessibility. They are usually more expensive than solid wood versions however, they can make an appealing centerpiece to any nursery.
Other cribs have a more traditional design with elegant curves and moldings. They also have the look of antique pieces. They can be very extravagant, and are typically made by hand with exquisite details. They are a great option when you're looking for the perfect crib that will be a family heirloom over time. They can also be paired with any design.
A Scandinavian crib is a different popular design. It is characterized by straight lines that are smooth and straight with an ethereal, bare-wood look. This lets the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. These cribs are perfect for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave them unfinished to fit in with your decor.
These cribs can also be used as a changing table making it easier to change your child. This is especially true for babies who are still young and have difficulty sitting up. These models have drawers to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.
Some cribs are curving or have designs on the sides that can be used to create an illusion of a canopy. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are a great option to keep your baby cool and comfortable while they sleep. Make sure you use a fabrics that aren't too long and firmly attached to your crib. This will ensure that 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, an adult daybed or a large bed can be incredibly useful for any family. This feature lets you save money since you don't have to buy four beds as your child grows and also frees up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with simple-to-store conversion kits, making it simple to use them when needed.
When you are looking for a new crib, keep in mind that many models include additional features such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to alter the appearance and function of your crib. It's especially beneficial when your nursery is limited in storage space. Some cribs have wheels that can be incredibly useful if you have to move the bed around for cleaning or other reasons.
Convertible cribs typically are made of durable non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the stringent safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. Many models have a classic or contemporary design that can fit into a variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are made of wood and others are made from metal or painted steel. Some brands are committed sustainable development, offering eco-friendly cribs made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins do not leach into the environment.
Selecting the ideal convertible crib for your baby will require some time and effort however, it's an important decision that can last for years to come. Consider your options carefully, and be sure to compare prices, delivery and setup times and other factors to make the best choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby and can have a significant impact on the overall appearance and feel of the room. Therefore, selecting one that matches your preferred style or that will work well with the rest of your room decor can make a significant difference in how you feel about the nursery as you are there.
In the same way, cribs designed to be converted into daybeds or toddler beds increase their value as your child grows, providing you long-term value. They're also generally less costly than full-size beds, and are able to be sold or given to a friend when your child no more requires them.
Convertible cribs can be easily maintained, as most parts can be removed, cleaned, and many have a conversion kit that makes it easy to convert them into the right size bed for your baby.
best cot bed are incredibly robust and can withstand the stress of regular use, with some lasting for a number of years.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring alternatives which makes them easier to move when changing sheets or altering mattress height. However, they could be more worn out and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses (also called two-stage or dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning through toddlerhood, with the soft side for infants and a more firm side for toddlers. They are usually more secure than foam mattresses, and may be more comfortable for older children who don't like the sagging sensation of foam. They're also generally more affordable than innerspring options.