What Is Cribs And How To Use It?
Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery
Cribs offer a designated sleeping space for infants to reduce the risk Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also helps to establish a regular sleep routine. Cribs also have more flexibility than other options, including bassinets.
If you choose an innovative design or a traditional one, make certain to confirm that it's GREENGUARD certified Gold to ensure that it meets the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to toxic chemicals. Then consider other features to find the ideal crib for your family.
1. Safety
As a parent to a child, the safety of your baby is of paramount importance. You want your child to sleep peacefully in an environment free of dangers such as sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
These include slat spacing no wider than 2 3/8 inches, to avoid your baby's legs, arms, or head from getting trapped and a mattress that is well-made and comfortable without drop sides; a sturdy crib that has no wobbling parts and clear instructions for assembly. Avoid using any bells or whistles like bumper pads or streamers that can strangle your baby.
Choose top rated cots that is painted with low-VOC paint which is a safer alternative to traditional varnishes and glues that emit harmful chemicals into the air. Similarly, consider a mattress constructed with non-toxic materials, such as cotton and organic foam.
Select a crib that does not have decorative embellishments or cutouts. They could cause injuries should your child pick them up, or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover is tightly fitted to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. It is also recommended to avoid placing pillows comforters, quilts pillows, sheepskins or similar stuffed toys in the crib, as these can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also be a risk, since they could be tipped over onto the baby and cause suffocation. Ideally, you should avoid using a mobile at all costs and choose a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is more beneficial for your baby's health as well as let you keep an eye on your little one as they sleep.
2. Convenience
One of the most essential things your baby needs is a secure place to sleep. Cribs are an excellent place for your baby's sleep especially when you are working on other household chores.
You'll likely find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These kinds of establishments must follow strict guidelines 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 have be aware of a number of aspects before purchasing a crib.
Cribs are an excellent choice for newborns, infants and toddlers, offering an inviting sleeping space that will last well beyond their initial years of life. Many cribs have convertible features which allow you to transform the crib into an infant bed or a full-size bed. This will save you money on your purchase and extend the life of your crib.
The small size of cribs makes them ideal for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some models include the option of a changing table, which is useful if your nursery is small in size.
They are also lightweight and foldable, making them simple to transport. This makes them an ideal option for traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family because you can easily take the crib down within a matter of minutes prior to leaving. However, the lightweight design of cribs for travel can lead to less sturdy construction than standard models which could be an issue for some parents.
3. Style
Choose a crib with distinctive design if want it to stand out. You can find one with sleek, minimalist designs or one made of a material like glass or bamboo and has clear sides for a better visibility. They are usually more expensive than solid wood alternatives, but they can add an attractive accent to any nursery.
Some cribs feature an older style with graceful curves and moldings, as well as the look of heirloom pieces. They can be quite extravagant, and are typically handcrafted with beautiful details. They are an excellent choice when you're looking for an infant crib that will become an important family heirloom in the future. They also work well with any design.
Another popular style is a Scandinavian crib with straight lines that are smooth and a light, bare wood finish that lets its natural beauty to shine through. These cribs are great for an modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to complement your decor.
They can also serve as a changing table, making it easier to change your baby. This is especially important for infants who are young and have trouble sitting up. They typically have drawers beneath to store wipes, diapers and other essentials.
Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as an umbrella. They can add a touch of elegance to any nursery and are a great option to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. However, be sure that the fabric you choose to use isn't too long, or that it is securely 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's crib, an adult daybed or a large bed is a great option 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 also come with conversion kits that store easily, making them easy to put together and use when the time comes.
Another thing to keep in mind while shopping for cribs is that a lot of cribs come with additional features, like adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This will allow you to alter the look and functionality of your crib. It 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, which can be extremely helpful if you want to move the bed around for cleaning or any other reason.
Convertible cribs are typically constructed from durable non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the strict safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. A lot of cribs also feature a contemporary or classic design that will fit into a broad range of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed from wood as well as others made out of steel or painted. Some brands are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly cribs made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This assures that harmful toxins do not leach into the environment.
It will take some time and effort to choose the best convertible crib for you nursery. However, it is an investment that will last for many years to come. Be sure to consider your options carefully, and be sure to compare prices, delivery and the time of setup, as well as other factors to make the right choice for your family.
5. Value
The crib is the most important piece of furniture in the nursery of your baby and can have a significant impact on the overall appearance and feel of the room. It is essential to choose a crib that matches your style or goes well with the decor of your room. This can make a significant difference in how you feel about your nursery.
As your child grows older cribs that are designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds can be used for a long time providing you with an advantage over time. They are also less costly than a traditional beds and can be donated or sold to a friend once your child is no longer in need of.
Convertible cribs are also easy to maintain, since most of the parts are easily removed and cleaned and many have an conversion kit that makes it easier to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are extremely durable and can withstand the demands of daily use, with some even last through multiple children.
Foam crib mattresses can be lighter than innerspring mattresses which makes them more convenient to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, they may be more worn out and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.
Hybrid crib mattresses, also known as dual-firm or two-stage mattresses, are designed to be used by babies and toddlers. One side is softer for the infants while the other is more rigid for toddlers. They're generally more secure than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older children who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They are usually more affordable than innerspring alternatives.