Choosing Cribs Beds For Your Baby
Sleep is an important element of your baby's development. A crib lets them establish the habit of sleeping independently, and it also keeps you and your baby safe at night.
There are a variety of cribs, all with different dimensions, styles, and mattress-support heights. We looked for cribs that are safe and easy to use and aesthetically pleasing.
Size
A crib is a small bed designed for babies and infants. There are many types of cribs available, but they all are smaller than a toddler bed and offer an appropriate place for your child to sleep. Some cribs come with wheels so they can be moved around the home. They are generally designed to decrease SIDS risk by providing a cozy and safe environment that is similar to the baby's womb.
While many parents would like their children to remain in a crib for as long as is possible however, some parents will be prepared to transition to a toddler bed sooner than others. The most popular crib is the standard crib. It is suitable for your child's first year until they reach 18 months old, or can climb out.
There are Baby beds , which can be used from birth to four months, or until the baby becomes too large for it. These are smaller, more compact cribs that can provide the closeness and comfort that parents of infants require during their early years. They also come in smaller sizes, making them a good alternative if you're not certain which bedding type your child will prefer.
To ensure the safety of your child the bassinets and cribs have safety guidelines. For example, there should be no gaps greater than two fingers between the mattress and the frame of the crib and the slats shouldn't be loose or missing. Also the bed shouldn't have cutouts on the headboard or footboard as these can trap a child's head or legs and increase the risk of being suffocated.
Cribs can be bought in different styles and finishes, and some even have integrated changing tables or shelving units. These are especially useful for breastfeeding moms in the future, since it allows you to nurse your baby while still in the crib. If you're not a lot of space and have the funds to purchase a crib you can find cribs that have only the basic necessities.
If you have more money, you can find cribs that can expand with your child to toddler beds and even sofas and daybeds. These are commonly referred to as 4-in-1 cribs and can be an ideal choice for parents who do not need to buy a new crib every when their child grows out of the crib they have.
Style
When you are looking for the perfect crib, take into consideration the design of the crib in relation to your baby's nursery. You might want to choose a crib that matches the general theme of your home, whether it's rustic or contemporary. There are numerous cribs to choose from in a variety of shapes and styles and with natural wood or color finishes.
Cribs have a long-standing tradition of providing safe sleeping spaces for babies. Initially, they were simply cradles which could be rocked. As understanding of child safety grew and stationary cribs became the norm, and the designs changed to ensure better protection against falling or entrapment. Today's cribs include features like sturdy construction, appropriate spacing of slats and non-toxic materials, all prioritizing your baby's safety and wellbeing.
For ease of use You can also find cribs that have an adjustable table and shelving unit. This kind crib is not suitable for babies who are able to stand or climb. It could make it easier to escape.
Some cribs offer adjustable heights for mattress support so that you can lower the mattress as your baby grows. The higher position is ideal for newborns, and the lower setting should be used prior to when your baby is able to sit up or roll in bed, which usually happens by the time they reach the age of a year.
The mattress can be set on a single-piece board or grid of wood-slats, or a spring-wire frames. Both What to Expect, and Baby Bargains recommend a steel spring frame because it is more durable than wooden slats which can be loosened or broken over time. The base should be firm and firm to stop the air from circulating around the mattress. This could create the risk of suffocation for infants.
If you're planning to keep your baby in a crib for as long as you can, then consider a 4-in-1 crib that converts into an infant bed, a daybed and eventually a full-size bed. They typically have rails that are removable, making the transition from a crib to a regular mattress easier. They also come with adjustable mattress levels.
Safety
No matter what style or design you select, it's essential to look for cribs that comply with stringent safety standards. In the United States this includes certifications by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the conformity to ASTM International Standards. Check for these certifications on the crib's packaging, or in its description. In addition, inspect the crib frame for any defects in the paint or the wood which could pose a threat for your baby.
If you are planning to purchase a new crib mattress for your baby's bed, go for the firmest one you can find. This will reduce the risk of accidental suffocation, which is a leading cause of sudden infant death syndrome. Also, ensure that the mattress fits comfortably in the crib. A mattress that's too big or too small could be risky, since your baby could get caught between the mattress and headboard or the sides of the crib.
Certain reports of nonfatal accidents that include 21 fatalities reported in the NPR and two additional fatalities reported during the NPR update, involve the crib mattress that was too soft. These incidents can lead to a range of dangers, such as gaps between the mattress and the crib's side or the footboard and head that create entrapment risks; infants rolling onto or becoming wedged between the mattress and the headboard or wall pillows and blankets that pose suffocation risks; and mattresses that are too hot which causes infants to suffer burns, rashes, and other health issues.
Certain manufacturers are now selling "breathable" crib mattresses which claim to encourage the safety of sleep and stop rebreathing, or breathing in the baby's carbon dioxide, thought to be a contributing factor to SIDS. There is no scientific evidence that breathable crib mattresses decrease the risk for SIDS.
Conversion
When you welcome an infant to your family, you will likely have to purchase many new items. This includes everything from clothing to toys to furniture for the nursery. Investing in cribs that convert to toddler beds or full-size beds can aid in saving money on furniture purchases and make the transition from infant to adolescence easier for your child as well as your family. These conversion kits can be bought for many brands of cots, and come with an adjustable headboard and footboard. Some models are GREENGUARD Certified Gold, which means they emit low levels of chemical to create a healthier indoor environment.
Whether you opt for convertible cribs or a standard crib, it is essential to purchase the right mattress so that your child is comfortable night's rest. You can pick from foam mattresses, innerspring and gel in different sizes to suit your needs. Select a mattress that is at least 2 3/8 inches thick or an innerspring mattress that is compliant with federal safety standards.
If your child is ready to move from the crib, you will need to purchase a toddler bed or full-size bed conversion kit. It is best to have it installed before your child turns two to ensure the process goes smoothly and your child is at ease with the new transition. Once you have your crib and mattress kit in place it will take two people less than 30 minutes to convert the crib into a full-size or toddler bed.
You can make the transition from a crib a toddler-sized bed more comfortable by keeping the bedding and decor the same and moving the bed into the room where the crib is located. Giving your child a choice of toys and stuffed animals to sleep with, and urging them to go to bed on a regular time can help them to adjust.
A crib that can convert to a full-size bed is a great way to extend the lifespan of your investment, and provide a bed for your child throughout their teenage years. Conversion kits are available in many styles to complement other furniture and are compatible with a wide range of mattresses, including twin and full size.