Choosing Cribs Beds For Your Baby

Sleep is an essential part of the life of your baby. A crib helps them establish the habit of sleeping independently, and it also keeps you both safe during the night.

There are a variety of cribs, all with different dimensions, styles, and mattress-support heights. We looked for cribs that are secure, simple to use, and in line with the latest design trends.

Size

A crib is a bed that is specifically designed for infants and babies. There are several different types of cribs, however all are smaller than a toddler bed and offer a safe place for your child to sleep. Some cribs are on 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 mother’s womb.

Some parents prefer to keep their baby in the crib as long as they can, while others might be ready move to a toddler’s bed sooner. The most popular type of crib is a standard crib, that can be used from birth until the time your child is 18 months old old or is capable of climbing out.

There are also bassinets that are suitable from the time of birth to four months, or until the baby becomes too large for it. They are smaller cribs, which are more compact, that can provide the closeness and comfort to parents some infants require during their early years. They also come in smaller sizes, making them a good option if you’re not sure what kind of bedding your child would like.

Both bassinets and cribs have safety guidelines to follow to ensure the safety of your child. There shouldn’t be a gap larger than two fingers between the crib’s frame and mattress and slats shouldn’t be sagging or missing. Also, the bed should not be fitted with cutouts in the headboard or footboard since they can restrict a child’s head or legs and increase the chance of suffocation.

Cribs can be bought in different styles and finishes, and some even come with changing tables or shelving units. They are particularly useful if you plan on breastfeeding in the future, since it allows you to breastfeed your baby while in the crib. If, however, you are limited in space and have a the funds to purchase a crib there are cribs that have only the basic necessities.

If you’re willing spend a little extra you can purchase cribs that can be transformed into daybeds, toddler beds or sofas. These cribs are called 4-in-1 cribs and can be a great choice for parents who don’t want a new one every time their child is out of the old one.

Style

If you are in the market for a crib, consider the style of the crib in relation to the nursery of your baby. If the design of your home is influenced by a particular direction such as modern or rustic it is possible to select one that matches the overall theme. There are numerous crib options with natural wood or vibrant finishes, and with a wide variety of unique designs and shapes.

Cribs are a safe place to sleep for infants. They were initially simple cradles that could be rocked. As understanding of child safety increased and stationary cribs became the standard, and designs were adapted to ensure better protection against accidents or entrapment. Today’s cribs include features like sturdy construction, a proper spacing of slats and non-toxic materials, all of which are geared towards your baby’s safety and well-being.

There are cribs that combine with a changing table or shelving unit to make it easier for parents in the early stages of infanthood. This type crib is not recommended for babies who are ready to climb or stand. It could make it easier to get out.

Some cribs have adjustable mattress support heights, meaning you can lower it as your baby grows. The higher setting works well for newborns. The lower position is best used when your child can sit up or roll over in bed. This typically happens at the age of one year.

The crib’s mattress can be positioned on a one-piece board, a grid of wood slats or spring-wire frames. Both What to Expect and Baby Bargains recommend using springs made of metal because it is believed to be more sturdy than wood slats that can be prone to breaking or becoming loose over time. The base should be solid and securely attached to the crib so that it doesn’t allow excess air to circulate around the mattress, creating a potential suffocation risk for infants.

If you are planning to keep your baby in the crib as long as possible then think about a 4-in-1 crib that can be transformed into a toddler’s bed, a daybed and then eventually a full size bed. They typically have removable rails that make the transition from a crib to a regular mattress less difficult. They also typically come with adjustable levels for the mattress.

Safety

It is essential to select cribs that comply with strict safety standards, regardless of the style and design you select. In the United States this includes certifications by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and compliance with ASTM International Standards. Look for these certifications on the crib’s packaging or description. In addition, examine the crib’s frame for defects in the paint or the wood that could pose a danger to your baby.

If you are planning to purchase a new crib mattress for your baby’s crib opt for the most sturdy one you can find. This will decrease the risk of death by accident due to suffocation. Also, ensure that the mattress fits snugly in the crib. A mattress that is either too large or too small could be hazardous for your baby as they could be trapped between the mattress’ sides and the headboard or the crib’s sides.

Some reports of nonfatal incidents that include 21 fatalities identified in the NPR and two additional reported fatalities received during the NPR update, relate to a crib mattress that was too soft. These incidents are characterized by a variety of hazards, including gaps between the mattress and the crib’s side or the footboard and head that pose entrapment hazards as well as infants who roll into or getting trapped between the mattress and the headboard or wall pillows and blankets, which pose suffocation risks