Buying a Great Crib
A high-quality crib is essential part of any nursery. Parents want a crib that adheres to strict safety standards.
They also want an item that is fashionable and easy to put together. Other important factors to consider is whether it comes with various mattress height positions and can be transformed into a daybed or toddler bed.
Aesthetics
The best cribs will have a design that is in harmony with the rest of your nursery's decor. They also feature a timeless design that will not change as your child grows. Some may prefer a more modern style while others might prefer something more traditional. You can pick from a range of colors and finishes to complement the style of your nursery. Some cribs have additional features that set them apart from the competition.
The Evolur is a good example. It has a mesh all-around that helps improve airflow. Parents have reported that the Evolur kept their babies at the ideal temperature for their babies to sleep and nap. It also offers six mattress height options to suit different preferences for sleeping. It can be tilted for colic and reflux. Its minimalist design makes it a great option for smaller nurseries. It is more expensive than other alternatives.
Another fashionable crib is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. The solid wood crib can be transformed to a daybed for a toddler with the purchase separate conversion kits. It's an elegant high-back style and its furniture choices include a dresser as well as a changing table. The smaller sides of this crib are a perfect fit for shorter moms and dads who don't have to reach over the rails to pick up their child.
small cot beds is another flexible option. It can be used as an infant crib, bassinet or toddler bed. The circular shape creates an atmosphere that resembles a womb your baby. It is also easy to move as it has wheels and a narrower width. The minimalist design means that you don't need to bring a lot blankets or toys. You can hang a canopy or mobile using the add-ons.
The Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 is a great crib that can be incorporated into the minimalist nursery. Its simple and sleek design looks clean, and it has an extra-wide mattress. It is more expensive than other cribs, and requires an extra toddler conversion kit. It's a lot of exposed hardware that parents may find distracting.
Safety
When purchasing a crib it is important to consider how safe the structure is. Although it might seem like a minor thing but every aspect of the crib's layout should be designed with safety in mind. 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 be higher than the top rail of the mattress support. Also, there shouldn't be any decorative cutouts that could cause a baby's arms or head to become stuck. It is always best to purchase new products that comply with current safety standards. If you are forced to use an older product, make sure that it hasn't been removed from service and adheres to all instructions from the manufacturer.
Be sure to submit the registration form for the product that often includes cribs and other baby gear to be informed in the event of recall. It is also a good idea to learn cardiopulmonary reperfusion (CPR) and the Heimlich maneuver in the event of emergency.
When you are choosing a crib, avoid placing toys with plush or other soft objects inside the crib with the baby. These toys can choke infants and increase the chance of SIDS. Similarly cribs should not be placed with any pillows or bumpers which can also lead to suffocation.
In the end, you should pick cribs that have two or four height settings. This allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows, and prevent them from being able to climb out of the crib and getting injured if they fall while trying to stand up or crawl. The mattress support is generally set at the highest point for newborns. However, it is recommended to lower it as your child grows.
It's also a good idea to check the crib regularly for any loose or cracked metal hardware. Bolts and nails may be loose over time. It is essential to check them every week.
Ease of Assembling
best cots that have 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 require complicated joinery or specialty hardware. This crib design can be easily stained or painted if you are a DIYer. When assembling a crib it is important to carefully follow the directions. If you don't follow a step, it could endanger your baby's safety. Most of the cribs you buy will come with a set of instructions but it's a good idea to do doing a quick search on the internet to find more specifics for the specific model you're using.
When you are choosing a crib it is important to consider how easily the crib can be moved. The majority of cribs are too large to fit through doors which is why you'll need to disassemble it in order to move it from one location in your home to another. This can be a pain and could cause frustration, particularly if you're in a rush to get your baby sleep.
If you're on the hunt for a crib that can be easily moved, consider one with wheels or a stand. These options will allow you to easily move the crib from one area to another and keep it tidy and secure. Also, make sure to select a crib that has an uncluttered design. So you can easily style it to match your nursery theme.
It's easy to put together and is easily taken apart. It's also light and easy to move around, meaning you can assemble it in just a few minutes. The most effective cribs come with all the hardware you require to complete the crib, so you don't have to fret about additional parts. However, be sure to inspect the hardware frequently since nails and bolts may be loose after use.
Pottery Barn Kids Larkin is one of our favorite. It's a design inspired by Craftsman and is constructed of poplar, a tough wood that resists dents better than pine, which is softwood. It is sturdy enough to last for many children, and a beautiful addition to any baby's nursery.
Cost
There are cribs available that are affordable. If you're looking to buy a crib that will last for many years and be passed down through generations, look for one with sturdy construction and a timeless design. Avoid particle board and search for quality wood. Avoid rough or cutout areas that could create an choking risk to your child.
Consider purchasing a crib that can grow with your child. It could be one that converts into a toddler's bed and then into a full size bed. This way, you won't have to buy a separate bed as your child grows older.
Pottery Barn Kids offers a large selection of cribs starting at less than $600. You can build it yourself with UPS delivery, or opt for Pottery Barn Kids' in-home delivery and assembly service to put it together for you in your nursery. There's a crib that will fit your preferences, whether you prefer a traditional style, a modern one, or an eclectic one.
You can also buy a convertible bed that will fit into any standard mattress. This will allow you to keep using the crib as your child develops. They usually come with an trundle bed and dresser integrated into the frame so you won't need an additional piece of furniture to your baby's room as they grow older. Some of these cribs even include a rocking mechanism that some parents have found relaxing for infants who have colic and reflux.
These cribs are larger than standalone cribs, and consequently take up more space in your home. You'll need to disassemble the cribs if intend to move them.
You can also find cribs certified GREENGUARD gold, which means that they've been tested for more than 10,000 chemicals and cleared. This certification is important when you're concerned about the environmental impact of your crib and your baby's health.