Buying a Great Crib
A quality crib is essential for any nursery. Parents are seeking cribs that meet the strictest safety standards.
They also want one that looks stylish and is easy to put together. Other factors to consider are whether it comes with multiple mattress height positions and can be converted to an adult daybed or a toddler bed.
Aesthetics
The best cribs will be designed with a style that matches the décor of your nursery. They also feature a timeless style that won't date as your baby grows older. While some might prefer a contemporary design, others may want something more traditional. You can choose from a wide variety of finishes and colors to match your nursery aesthetic. Some cribs also have add-ons that make them stand out from the rest.
The Evolur model, for instance, features a mesh that helps improve airflow. Parents have reported that it kept their children at a comfortable temperature throughout nap and bedtime. It also comes with six mattress height options to accommodate different preferences for sleeping. It can also be tilted to ease colic and reflux. Its minimalist design makes it an ideal choice for smaller nurseries. However it's more expensive compared to other options.
Another attractive crib is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. The solid wood crib is certified by GreenGuard Gold and can convert into a toddler bed, daybed or headboard by the purchase of separate conversion kits. It comes with an elegant high-back design as well as furniture options like changing tables and dressers. The smaller sides of this crib are a good option for moms with shorter legs and dads who don't need to reach over the rails to pick up their baby.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed offers another option that is versatile. It can be used as a bassinet, crib, or toddler bed and features a circular form that creates a womb-like environment for your baby. It is also easy to move since it has wheels and a narrower width. The minimalist design of the furniture means you don't require lots of blankets or toys and the additional accessories can be used to hang a mobile or canopy.
The Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 is a great crib that can be incorporated into the minimalist nursery. It is sleek and simple design that looks neat. It also comes with a mattress that is extra wide. However, it's more expensive than other cribs and requires an additional toddler conversion kit. It also has a lot of hardware that's exposed which some parents may find distracting.
Safety
It is essential to think about the safety of a crib before purchasing one. It may seem insignificant but every aspect of a crib's design should be geared towards safety. For instance, slats should not be more than 2-3/8" apart (about the size of a soda-can) and the corners should not extend beyond the top rail on the mattress support. There should be no cutouts with decorative designs that could cause a child to fall over or get their arms stuck. It is recommended to opt for new products that comply with the current safety standards, but if you must utilize second-hand equipment, make sure that it has not been recalled and adheres to all the manufacturer's guidelines.
Send in the registration cards that are included with cribs and baby gear so that you are notified when a recall occurs. In the event an emergency it's an excellent idea to master CPR and the Heimlich manoeuvre.
Additionally, when choosing a crib, avoid placing toys with plush or other soft objects in it with the baby. These toys can choke the infant and raise the chance of sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS. The crib should also not have any pillows or bumpers since they could cause suffocation.
You should also select cribs that have four or two different height settings. This allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows, preventing them from climbing out of the crib and getting injured if they fall when trying to stand up or crawl. The mattress support is typically set at the highest point for newborns. However, cot for sale is recommended to lower it as your child grows.
It's also a good idea to inspect the crib regularly for any loose or cracked metal hardware. Bolts and nail can get loose with time. It is essential to inspect them on a regular basis.
Easy Assembly
The cribs with bars on the front and frame-and-panel constructions on all three sides are the easiest to assemble. This design permits simple woodworking and doesn't need any complicated joinery or specialty hardware. If you're a DIYer this type of crib is also easy to paint or stain. When assembling a crib, it is essential to go through the instructions. It could put your baby's life at risk by not following one step. Most of the cribs you purchase will come with a set of instructions however, it's worth a quick internet search to find out more information about the specific crib you're using.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a crib is how easily it can be moved from room to. A majority of cribs are too large to fit through standard doorways. You'll have to disassemble them to move them from one area to another. This can be a headache and cause frustration, especially when you're trying to get your baby sleep.
If you are seeking a crib that has wheels or a stand, then you should look for one. These options will make it easier to transport from room to room, and also keep the crib safe and clean. Also, make sure to look for a crib that has an uncluttered design. This way you can easily decorate it to match the theme of your nursery.
A great crib is easy to put together and can be taken apart to be stored. It's also light and easy-to-maneuver, so you can put it together in just a few minutes. The most effective cribs come with all the hardware you require and there's no need to worry about extra parts. Be sure to check the hardware regularly as nails and bolts can get loose over time.
One of our favorite cribs is the Pottery Barn Kids Larkin. It's made of poplar wood, which is a hard wood that is more resistant to denting than pine, a cheaper softwood. It's sturdy enough to last through several children and is a stunning accessory to any nursery.
Cost
Some cribs can cost very large sum, but you can find one that fits your budget. If you're looking to buy a crib that will last for many years and be passed through generations, look for a crib that has a solid construction and a timeless design. Choose a high-quality wood and steer clear of particle board. Also, avoid rough or cutouts that could be a choking risk for your child.
A crib that can grow with your child is a great option, so think about buying one that can be converted into a toddler bed, and later, into an adult-sized bed. This way, you don't need to purchase a second bed as your child grows older.
Pottery Barn Kids offers a variety of cribs starting at less than $600. You can build it yourself using UPS delivery or splurge on Pottery Barn Kids' in-home delivery and assembly service to have it put together for you in your bedroom. If you're looking for a traditional or contemporary design, there's bound to be a crib that matches your style.
Another option is to buy a convertible crib that will fit in any mattress, allowing you to continue using it as your baby grows. These cribs have an trundle and dresser built in, so you don't need to buy additional furniture for your child's bedroom. Some cribs have a rocking mechanism, which some parents find relaxing for infants who have colic and reflux.
The disadvantage of these cribs is that they're larger than standalone cribs, so they'll take up more space in your home. You'll have to take them apart if you intend to move them.
There are cribs that are certified GREENGUARD gold, which indicates that they have been tested for over 10,000 chemicals and cleared. This certification is crucial if you're concerned about the environment and your baby's health.