Buying a Great Crib
A quality crib is a must-have for any nursery. Parents are looking for cribs that meet the strictest safety standards.
They also want an item that is fashionable and easy to assemble. Other factors to consider include if it has various mattress height positions and can be converted to an adult daybed or a toddler bed.
Aesthetics
The best cribs will have a style that matches the decor of your nursery. They also feature timeless designs that will not date as your child grows. Some may prefer a more modern design while others may want something more traditional. You can choose from different finishes and colors to match your nursery's aesthetic. Some cribs have additional features that make them stand out from the rest.
For instance, the Evolur features an all-round mesh that improves the airflow and breathability. Parents reported that it kept their babies at a comfortable temperature throughout nap and bedtime. It has six mattress heights to accommodate various sleeping preferences. It can be slanted for colic and reflux. Its minimalist design makes it a great option for smaller nurseries. It is more expensive than some other options.
Another attractive crib is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. This solid wood crib could be transformed into a toddler or daybed with the purchase separate conversion kits. It has a high-back design and furniture options like a changing table and dresser. The shorter sides of this crib are a perfect fit for shorter moms and dads who don't need to reach over the rails to pick up their child.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed is another flexible option. It can be used as an infant crib, bassinet or toddler bed. The circular shape creates a space like a womb for your baby. It also comes with wheels and a narrow size, making it easy to move between rooms or from room to room. Its minimalist design means it doesn't require 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 fantastic crib for a small nursery. It's a sleek, simple design that looks neat. It also has an very wide. It is more expensive than other cribs and requires an extra toddler conversion kit. It has a lot exposed hardware that some parents may find distracting.
Safety
When purchasing a crib it is essential to think about how secure the crib is. It may seem insignificant, but every aspect of a crib's design should be geared towards safety. For instance the slats shouldn't be greater than 2-3/8 inches apart (about the width of a soda bottle) or the corners should not be higher than the top rail of the mattress support. There should be no decorative cutouts which could cause a child to get their head or arms trapped. It is recommended to opt for products that are new and meet current safety standards, however if you must utilize second-hand equipment, make sure that it has not been subject to recall and is in compliance with all guidelines of the manufacturer.
Also, be sure to bring in the registration form for the product that often is included with cribs and other baby equipment to be informed in the event of recall. In case an emergency it's an excellent idea to learn CPR and the Heimlich manoeuvre.
When selecting a crib for your baby, be sure to not place soft toys and other items in the crib. These toys can choke the baby and increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS. The crib should also not be equipped with any pillows or bumpers as these can lead to death by suffocation.
You should also choose cribs that have four or two different height settings. You can lower the mattress to prevent your baby from escaping their crib or injuring themselves should they fall when trying to stand or crawl. Parents are often tempted to put the mattress support at its highest height for babies, but it is recommended to begin lowering the mattress when your child is around 3-4 months old, and continue doing so as they increase in height.
It is recommended to examine the crib regularly for any loose or cracked hardware. Bolts and nails may become around over time, which is why it is crucial to examine them on a weekly basis.
Simple Assembly
The cribs that have bars on the front and frame-and-panel constructions on all three sides are the easiest to put together. This design is simple for woodworking, and doesn't require complicated joinery or special hardware. This crib design can be easily painted or stained for those who are DIYers. When assembling a crib it is important to carefully read the instructions. It could put your baby's life in danger if you miss even a single step. The instructions included with the majority of cribs are typically extremely specific. However cot sets can conduct a quick search on internet to learn more about the model you have.
When you are choosing a crib it is important to consider how easily the crib can be moved. Most cribs are too big 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, especially if you're in a rush to get your baby to sleep.
If you're looking for a crib with wheels or a standing, then look for one. Those options will make it easier to transport from room to room, and also keep the crib tidy and secure. Also, be sure to look for a crib with an uncluttered design. This way you can easily style it to match your nursery theme.
A great crib is easy to put together and is easily disassembled for storage. It's also lightweight and easy to move and put it together in just a few minutes. The best cribs will also contain all the hardware needed that means you don't need to fret about finding additional parts. Be sure to check the hardware on a regular basis since nails and bolts may be loose after use.
One of our favorite cribs is the Pottery Barn Kids Larkin. It has a Craftsman-inspired design and is made of poplar which is a hard wood that is more resistant to dents than pine, which is a softwood. It is sturdy enough to last for many children, and is a stunning design for any nursery.
Cost
Some cribs cost a very large sum, but you can find ones that fit your budget. If you're planning to buy a crib that will last for many years and be passed down through generations, look for a crib with a sturdy construction and a timeless look. Avoid particle board and look for high-quality wood. Also, avoid cutouts or rough areas that could pose a choking hazard for your baby.
A crib that grows with your child is a good purchase, so you should consider buying one that can be transformed into a toddler bed and later, into the size of a bed. This way, you don't have to buy a separate bed as your child gets older.
Pottery Barn Kids has a large selection of cribs starting at under $600. You can build it yourself with UPS delivery or splurge on Pottery Barn Kids' in-home delivery and assembly service to put it together for you in your nursery. There's a crib to fit your style, whether you prefer a traditional look or a modern one or a more eclectic one.
Another option is to get a convertible crib that will fit into any standard mattress, allowing you to keep it in use as your baby grows. The cribs come with a trundle and dresser integrated, meaning you don't need to buy additional furniture for your child's room. Some cribs come with a rocking mechanism which some parents found soothing for infants who have colic and reflux.
These cribs are larger than standalone cribs and therefore take up more space in your home. You'll need to disassemble the cribs if are planning to move them.
There are cribs that are GREENGUARD Gold certified, which means they have been tested and cleared of over 10,000 chemicals. This certification is essential for those who are concerned about the environment or your baby's health.