Nursery advisor
Helpful tips and advice on purchasing an infant bed, crib, cot or cradle
With a wide variety of infant beds, cribs, cots and cradles available in differing materials, styles and accessories, choosing a crib for you and your child can be a challenging task. Here is an overview of some important considerations when choosing the right crib for your child.
- Safety first
A baby crib is your baby’s first furniture. Buying a baby crib can be very exciting, but there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. A baby crib is the only item in the world that you are intending to leave your baby unattended for periods of time. For this reason alone, it is wise to consider only the safest of cribs available on the market today. New models have a variety of different features, and many people love the idea of antique or heirloom baby cribs. Any baby cribs made after 1985 are required by law to meet specific safety standards. Many cribs no longer meet today’s standards for quality and safety. Many years of research has led to the current construction of baby cribs. Older cribs may pose dangers or place your infant at risk. They often do not come with instructions and missing a minor detail in the instructions could be disastrous. In order to assure your baby’s safety in a crib, it is very important to consider turning down any second hand offers from friends and family and instead evaluate te strengths of a new and approved crib. Investing in a new and standards meeting infant crib will provide you with greater peace of mind, knowing that your child is safe in their baby crib. In older baby cribs, make sure that the slats or bars of the crib are spaced no more than 2 3/8 inches (2.88 cm) apart. Anything larger poses the risk of the baby's head becoming trapped. You should also check the baby crib thoroughly for any defects or designs that may cause entrapment of the head. Older cribs may have been painted with lead paint, which if ingested can cause serious illness. If you choose an heirloom piece, it is a good idea to have it refinished before your baby uses it. Whether old or new, double check the crib to make sure it is safe for your baby.
- Convertible or fixed
Many variations are available in smaller baby style cribs, than in the expanding and conversion type baby cribs. These smaller fixed cribs are less expensive, but your child will outgrow them much faster.
- Mattress
When you purchase a baby crib, you will also have to choose a mattress. For safety reasons, it is important to make sure that the mattress fits snugly in the crib and that it is firm. There should be no space between the baby crib and the mattress. A good rule of thumb is that if you can fit two or more fingers between the crib and the mattress, the mattress is too small. A mattress that is too small or soft increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), entrapment or suffocation.
- Matress height
The actual baby crib mattress height and support is important and a crib that has an easily adjustable mattress height is essential. This adjustable height allows the mattress to be higher up so that you can set the baby down gently and easily, as well as being able to be lowered when your baby becomes older and is able pull themself up. The baby crib you buy should have at least two height positions for the mattress.
- Material quality and longevity
When choosing a baby crib, make sure that it is robust and stable. Check the wood, metal, plastic etc. to make sure that it is not likely to splinter or crack. A sturdy baby crib will also ensure your child's safety by helping to prevent falls when they learn to climb. Lower and raise the rail a number of times to ensure that it moves easily, smoothly, and quietly. There is nothing more frustrating than trying to lower a stubborn or noisy rail with a sleeping child in your arms. Wooden baby cribs should be constructed from hardwoods such as maple, ash, beech, or oak and painted or stained with safety approved varnishes.
- Shape
Cribs are typically rectangular. However you will find that some models are available in round or oval shape. This shape has not only greater aesthetic qualities, but your child will experience more space and room while turning and crawling in sleep, without getting stuck in any corner.
- Style
Arguably the most fun thing to consider when considering which baby crib to buy is the style of the crib. Today it is possible to purchase everything from traditional and classic looks, to the modern and more dated. Everyone has their own style and their own taste and personal preference, and this is applied to buying baby necessities as it is to anything else. A classic and timeless crib may well be your best option if you plan to sell it later or pass it on at a later time to other family members or friends.
- Wheels
Many baby cribs are wheeled. This is a very nice feature if you plan on moving your baby crib around in the nursery. A wheeled crib can also make it easier to change the linens and to rotate and clean around the crib. Being able to roll a baby crib into another room is also a nice flexibility to have. Most specially when you are cleaning your nursery floor or carpet. Ensure when considering a wheeled crib that the wheels have a good, solid locking mechanism. It is always important to lock the wheels of your crib when stationary to avoid any potential danger, especially if you have other children in the home. Who whilst playnig with baby could accidentally push the baby crib themselves (i.e. down the stairs, up against a window or furniture).
- Take your time
Remember to take time and consideration. Compare and research potential cribs so that you will result in making the best decision for you and your baby. You want your baby to be safe, happy, and comfortable, and learning everything there is to know about your crib will help you make the right decision.
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