10 Quick Tips For Crib Sets Crib Sets - Everything You Need For Your Newborn to Sleep Soundly From Day One


The most ideal crib sets have everything you need for your infant to sleep soundly from day one. They are pre-shrunk and machine washable. They are designed to fit snugly on the mattress without bunching - a major risk to the safety of babies.

One parent tester stated that she had used it for two babies, and then passed it on to a friend. This makes it a wise purchase. Its sleek design makes it a great option for small nursery spaces.

Bedding

When it is time to choose a crib bedding, there are a variety of options available. It's not just about choosing a pattern that matches your aesthetic. You also want to ensure that the bedding is tightly fitted and doesn't get tangled in places that could be the risk of choking your child. It must also be soft to the touch and durable enough to endure months of blowouts from diapers and spit-up without wearing out too fast.

The Avocado set is one of our favorites. It contains two sheets that are made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton. The textiles are also MADE SAFE certified, which is an independent third party certification that ensures that the products of the company meet rigorous standards for quality and safety. The sheets are pre-shrunk so that they don't shrink or stretch after washing. They also fit on a standard crib (27 1 4 inches wide by 51 5/8 inches long). They're also machine-washable for the inevitable mess your little baby is bound to create.

A crib mattress pad is another great option for babies and toddlers. It adds an extra layer of comfort, and also protects the mattress from spills and stains. Choose a mattress cover that is less than one-inch thick to allow your child to breathe. Avoid anything that is too soft or with long bows, ribbons, and other adornments. They can fall off and create a strangulation hazard.

Consider buying a convertible crib if plan to keep your child in the crib for a long period of time. These cribs can be converted to a toddler bed, and occasionally even a full-size daybed. Some cribs come with conversion kits, whereas other require an extra purchase.

Some of our top cribs include this Dream On Me Ashton 5-in-1 sleigh-style crib, which is made from solid wood and has one of the taller mattress heights (for parents who are worried about reaching down to a mattress that is low). We love that it's also Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it meets the strictest environmental standards to reduce off-gassing.

Mattress

Size and firmness are crucial when it comes to a crib mattress. The AAP recommends a firm mattress that fits comfortably and does not leave an indentation on the surface when you lay a sheet over it. The mattress should be of the proper size for the crib and remain in place even when your child is out of it.

You should also determine whether the mattress is made up of substances that could harm your child. Find a mattress that is free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which release an unpleasant chemical smell. A good indication is a CertiPUR-US certificate which confirms that the foam used in mattresses is made without Ozone depleters, PBDEs and TDCPP and TCEP flame retardants, mercury, lead and other heavy metals, formaldehyde phthalates regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and volatile organic compounds.

Other aspects to consider are how much weight the mattress carries and whether it's waterproof or not. You'll likely be dealing with changes to sheets at night, so an easily wipeable or waterproof surface will make cleaning easier. The Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2-Stage is the heaviest of the bunch we tested at 20 pounds which could be a turnoff for some parents.

Another aspect to be aware of is whether the mattress is dual-sided. Some have a firm infant side and an easy toddler side. Pediatricians suggest flipping the mattress once your child has reached the height of their normal growth, usually about 12 months.

We measured the mattresses and then observed how easily they folded to cover the sides of the crib with sheets. We also placed an 8-pound tin, slightly heavier than a newborn on each one to see how the mattress reacted. The most comfortable mattresses did not sink, which means they offer enough support to prevent your child from falling off or suffocating in bed. The mattresses we test had a removable cover that is machine washable and is water-proof. This makes cleaning and maintaining them much easier.

Crib Rails

A crib can't be complete without the right set of fixed rails. While some cribs for babies offer baby rails with their cribs and others sell the rails separately. If you opt to purchase them separately, look for rails that meet the safety requirements. They should, for example be free of missing or loose screws, brackets and other hardware. They should be sturdy enough to support your child's weight, but not too thin. They should also lock securely in place so that they cannot be removed from your child.

The crib rails need to not only be sturdy but also fit comfortably within the frame of the crib. This will stop the mattress from being too flimsy, which can be dangerous for your baby. When purchasing crib rails, make sure to measure the inside of the frame, as there are slight variations in the sizes of cribs. Ideally, the space should be no more than three fingers wide.

It is also important to ensure that the crib rails do not include any cutouts with decorative designs or other embellishments. They could pose the risk of suffocation. It is also recommended to avoid putting pillows blankets, blankets, quilts, and sheepskins on the crib, since they can contribute to the accumulation of carbon dioxide and increase the risk of SIDS. If you're looking to provide a soft sleeping surface in the crib, try a crib pad and cover combination. The products comprise a mattress pad with a waterproof lining and a fitted "skirt" that wraps around the mattress in the same way as a fitted sheet.

Finally, you'll need find the best crib rail protectors. These are designed to cushion the head of your child if it hits the crib railings while you feed them or cradling them beside the bed. They can also stop dental marks and drool staining on the crib's railings on the sides that are fixed.

As your baby grows out of the crib, you'll need a toddler guard rail to ensure your child's safety in the crib until they're ready for a bigger bed for their child. Sweetpea Baby offers a convertible crib toddler rail that will work with all cribs. It is easy to install and complies with CPSC safety standards.

Crib Hardware

Certain aspects of the crib's design are only aesthetic or are dependent on personal preference, but others--such as the style of slats or whether the crib converts into an adult bed--can have a significant impact on the ease of use and the length of time the crib will last. The best crib s feature solid wood construction, comply with numerous safety standards, and are configurable to a variety of mattress heights. Some cribs come with special features that make them more effective such as the Quick Zip Crib Sheet, which allows you to change sheets without taking the entire mattress from the crib.

Generally speaking, you should avoid cribs with decorative cut-outs, or other decorations that could catch on clothing or pose a choking risk for children. Also, be certain to check the crib's hardware frequently for loose bolts and other objects that could get caught on clothing or other objects and create the risk of injury.

The top crib sets include easy-to-follow instructions and all the essential components, like hardware. Most modern cribs can be assembled within a half-hour or less, and the majority come with all the tools required.

Think about a convertible crib that can be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed or full-size mattress. This is a good choice for families who plan to use the crib for many years or have a limited space. It's important to keep in mind, though, that some crib conversion kits require additional purchases to complete the process.

It can be difficult to comprehend crib hardware, but it is crucial for safety and stability. The majority of cribs are made up consisting of rectangular blocks, wedges (also called "shims") and large chocks, also known as step chocks. They're all designed to strengthen the connections between the crib and the surface that supports it.

Some shims or chocks could be made of soft woods, which crack slowly. This can give an audible warning prior to when they fail. However, stiffer woods might break more quickly and with greater force. The shims and chocks are made of plastic and are also available for purchase. They are easier to install, as they don't require drilling into the surface.