Buying a Great Crib
A great crib is an essential item for any nursery. Parents are searching for a crib that meets stringent safety regulations.
They also want one that is elegant and is easy to put together. Other factors to consider is whether it has multiple mattress height positions and can be transformed into the position of a daybed or a toddler bed.
Aesthetics
The most stylish cribs have a design that fits the decor of your nursery. They also feature a timeless design that won't change as your child grows. While some parents prefer a contemporary style some may prefer something more traditional. You can pick from a variety of finishes and colors to match your nursery aesthetic. Some cribs have additional features that make them stand from the rest of the cribs.
The Evolur model, for instance, is a mesh with a ring which improves airflow. Parents reported that the Evolur kept their children at a comfortable temperature for bedtime and naps. It comes with six different mattress heights to suit the different preferences of sleepers. It can also be tilted to help ease colic and reflux. Its minimalist design makes it an ideal option for smaller nurseries. However, it's more expensive than other alternatives.
Another fashionable crib is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. The solid wood crib is GreenGuard Gold Certified and can be converted into a toddler bed, daybed or a headboard with the purchase of separate conversion kits. It's a classic high-back style, and its furniture choices include a dresser as well as a changing table. The smaller sides of this crib are a great option for moms with shorter legs and dads who don't have to reach over the rails to pick up their baby.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed is another flexible option. It can be used for an infant crib, bassinet or toddler bed. The circular shape creates an environment that resembles a womb your baby. It also comes with wheels and a narrow size, making it easy to move between rooms or from room to room. The minimalist design of the furniture means you don't need lots of toys or blankets and the additional accessories can be used to hang a canopy or mobile.
The Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib is another great crib for a small nursery. It's a sleek, simple design that looks neat. It also has a mattress that is extra wide. It's also more expensive than other cribs and requires an additional toddler conversion kit. It also has lots of hardware that's exposed which some parents may find distracting.
Safety
It is essential to consider the safety of a crib prior to buying one. It may seem insignificant but every aspect of a crib's design must be geared towards safety. For instance the slats shouldn't be greater than 3/8 inches apart (about the width of a soda container) or the corners should not go over the top rail of the mattress support. Also, there shouldn't be any cutouts or decorative features that could cause a baby's head or arms to get stuck. It is recommended to go for new products that comply with current safety standards, however when you do use second-hand equipment, be sure it's not been subject to recall and is in compliance with all guidelines set by the manufacturer.
Send in the registration cards that are included with baby equipment and cribs to be notified when a recall occurs. It is also an excellent idea to be aware of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the Heimlich maneuver in the event of emergency.
In addition, when selecting a crib, you should avoid placing toys with plush or other soft items in it with the baby. These toys can choke the baby and increase the chance of sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS. The crib should also not be equipped with any bumpers or pillow, since they could cause suffocation.
Finally, you should select a crib that has two or four height options. This is so that you can lower the mattress as your baby grows, preventing them from climbing out of the crib or getting injured if they fall when trying to stand up or crawl. Parents are often tempted to put the mattress support at the highest level for infants, but it is recommended to start lowering it when your child is 3-4 months of age, and continue to do so as they develop.
It is also a great idea to examine the crib on a regular basis for any loose or cracked metal hardware. Bolts and nails can wiggle loose over time, so it is crucial to examine on a regular basis.
Easy Assembly
The cribs with bars on the front and frame-and-panel constructions on all three sides are the simplest to assemble. This design is easy to put together and does not require complicated joinery. This type of crib can be easily stained or painted if you are a DIYer. The most important thing to keep in mind when putting together a crib is to follow the instructions thoroughly. Your baby's life in danger in the event that you fail to follow a single step. The majority of cribs you purchase come with a set of instructions, but it's worth an internet search to find out more information about the specific crib you're using.
Another crucial aspect to take into consideration when choosing a crib is the ease with which it can be moved from room to room. The majority of cribs are too large to fit through most standard doorways, so you'll need to disassemble the crib if you plan to move it from one place in your home to another. This can be a hassle and cause frustration, particularly when you're trying get your child asleep.
If you're looking for a crib that is easily moved, consider one with wheels or a stand. This will make it much easier to transport from room to room, and also keep the crib safe and clean. Make sure you choose a crib that has an uncluttered design. This way you can easily decorate it to match your nursery theme.
It's easy to put together and easily taken apart. It's also light and easy to move so you can put it together in a matter of minutes. The most effective cribs come with all the hardware you need to complete the crib, so you don't have to fret about additional components. Make sure you check the hardware frequently as nails and bolts can become loose over time.
One of our most loved cribs is the Pottery Barn Kids Larkin. It's a design inspired by Craftsman and is constructed of poplar, a hard wood that is more resistant to dents than pine, which is softwood. It's sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of many children and is an attractive design for any nursery.
Cost
Some cribs can cost a pretty penny, but you can find ones that fit your budget. If you're looking to buy a crib that will last for years and be passed through generations, look for a crib with a sturdy construction and a timeless design. Choose a high-quality wood and steer clear of particle board. Also, avoid rough areas or cutouts which could pose a choke hazard for your baby.
Consider investing in a crib that will grow with your child. It could be one that converts into a toddler's crib, and later into a full-size bed. It is not necessary to purchase a new bed for your child when they get older.
Pottery Barn Kids has a large selection of cribs starting at less than 600 dollars. You can choose to build it yourself using UPS delivery, or opt for Pottery Barn Kids' in-home delivery and assembly service to put it together for you, right in your nursery. There's a crib to fit your style, whether you prefer a traditional look or a contemporary one or an eclectic one.
You can also purchase an adjustable bed that can fit into any mattress that is standard. This allows you to keep using the crib as your child grows. The cribs come with a dresser and trundle integrated, meaning you don't need to buy additional furniture for your child's room. Some of these cribs even include a rocking mechanism that some parents have found relaxing for fussy babies with colic and reflux.
The disadvantage of these cribs is that they are bigger than standalone cribs, so they will occupy more floor space in your home. It is necessary to take them apart if you intend to move them.
There are cribs that are GREENGUARD Gold certified, which means they have been tested and cleared for over 10,000 chemicals. This certification is important when you're concerned about the environmental impact of your crib and your baby's health.