What Do I Need To Know About Buying A Crib?

A Variety of Cribs

It's crucial to think about more than just looks when browsing cribs. The following six child care facilities are among our top picks. Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of each option and how they can fit into your life.

Normal Baby Cribs

This is the type of crib that most people image when they think of a crib. Standard cribs are built to last and are straightforward in design, with four solid walls and slats on the other sides.

Parents who anticipate having more than one child benefit greatly from using a standard-sized crib. They're hardy and can be found in a wide variety of styles, from monochrome to multicoloured.

Slats on spindle cribs, a variant on the conventional crib, can be found in a variety of fun shapes, including square, circular, and rectangle.

• Some infants, especially as they grow older, benefit from having more space to move around in. A baby can stretch out in comfort in a standard-sized crib. There is a wide variety of standard cribs available to match any nursery's design scheme. Typically, a child can use a regular crib until they are ready for a toddler bed because most cribs have at least three and frequently four mattress heights available for changes as the infant grows.
• The standard cribs (as opposed to the mini-cribs and other alternatives to the crib such as bassinets) do take up a lot of room. Standard cribs, in comparison to smaller sleepers, are typically more expensive, have more involved assembly and disassembly, and are not easily relocated once erected.
• Things to keep an eye out for: When compared to convertible cribs, one of the main advantages of regular cribs is the variety of styles and colours from which parents can choose. The alternatives available to parents are likely to include a wide variety of styles that will work with nursery decor. Parents should always double-check the crib's instructions to ensure it is being used properly and safely (typically a height limit). Parents should also check that the cot they buy meets all current safety standards. The American Academy of Pediatrics points out that while antique cribs may have a certain nostalgic allure, they may also pose dangers that have been mitigated by modern safety standards. Such as the process established in 2011 by the U.S. Consumer Protection Safety Commission to outlaw the production, sale, and even donation of drop-side cribs in the United States.

Modular Cribs

Convertible cribs, also called "lifetime cribs" or "3-in-1 cribs," are rapidly gaining popularity due to their adaptability. Some, for instance, only require a second transformation to a toddler bed, while others go through a third transformation to a daybed or full bed, guaranteeing that it will grow with your child all the way up to puberty.

Parents who don't want to have more children or who are seeking for a permanent furniture solution may find the convertible crib to be the best option.

These cribs are ideal because they don't look like they'll be out of place when your child gets older thanks to their classic style or muted colour palette. Another perk is that you only need one bed throughout your entire youth, making a convertible crib the most cost-effective choice.

• The advantages of convertible cribs include the flexibility they provide to parents as their children age. Convertible cribs can be easily converted into twin beds or full size beds once a child outgrows the crib stage. The long-term purpose here is probably for parents to save money on things like a toddler bed, crib, etc. Depending on your needs, you may be able to switch between a toddler bed, a daybed, and a full-size bed with some models. Many baby furniture stores carry convertible cribs as a standard item.
• The initial investment in a convertible crib is more. There will be additional costs down the road because the conversion rails are not included. As a result, parents may want to think about getting conversion rails as soon as possible, since model-specific rail kits can become hard to come by if/when models are discontinued. Once you factor in the cost of the crib itself, the additional rails, hardware, and maybe a new mattress for certain models, a convertible crib can quickly surpass the price of a normal crib. Convertible cribs may require more adult supervision during assembly than traditional cribs.
• Things to keep an eye out for: When shopping for a convertible crib, parents should prioritise finding one with as many features as possible. Cribs that can be converted into other beds are usually labelled with the number of times they can be used. The standard 2-in-1 convertible crib will convert to a toddler bed. Some beds can be transformed into five different configurations, including two full-size bed options (with or without footboard). The cost and availability of the conversion kit (some kits may need to be ordered) and the necessity of any specialised equipment should also be taken into account by the parents.

Bassinets

A bassinet is one of the more adaptable choices for new parents. This style of crib is convenient for the first few months of a baby's existence since it allows you to keep an eye on the infant without leaving bed.

Since they take up less space, bassinets are great for studio and one-bedroom flats as well. Because they are lightweight and compact, they may be conveniently relocated to any location.

Some even have a rocking feature to help your infant nod off during his or her nap.

In conclusion, bassinets are a great option for a temporary sleeping solution; nevertheless, they are not suitable for long-term use. When a baby reaches three to six months old, or when they begin rolling over, it's time to upgrade to a bigger crib.

Packable Cribs

Does the way you and your family choose to spend your time necessitate frequent travel? Think about getting a portable crib. The crib that can be folded and carried on an aeroplane is convenient not just for long travels but also for overnight visits to Grandma and Grandpa.

Typically made of mesh or aluminium, travel cribs are ultralight and incredibly portable. Most also feature a convenient carrying case.

One more perk is that some of them can be ready to use in little than 30 seconds after being unboxed.

The bottom line is that, similar to bassinets, portable cribs shouldn't be used on a regular basis. Moreover, their fragile construction makes them easily worn down.

Narrow Crib

The mini-crib is a popular alternative for families with limited room in their homes.

Ignore its diminutive stature at your peril. This smaller version of the standard crib has the same convenient features as its bigger sibling, such as a height-adjustable mattress and wheels for easy portability.

The reality is that infants quickly outgrow their small cribs, necessitating the purchase of a larger bed before graduating to a toddler or twin size. The locking brakes should be checked by parents if their child's stroller has wheels on the bottom.

Finding the Perfect Nursery Set without Breaking the Bank

Crib prices can vary widely depending on the brand and design features. Most cribs cost between $150 to $800, with the most expensive going up to $1,200 or more. The best cribs typically cost between $200 and $300, with luxury models going for much more.

Wood or other materials used in construction, the crib's finish, design, brand, retailer, and optional extras are all important considerations. Mattresses are not included in the price of a crib (with the exception of convertible and some round cribs), and you'll need to buy a conversion kit and tools to make it into a full size bed (if applicable).

Budgeting for a crib mattress might be difficult as well; good quality mattresses can add another $150-$300 to your total. If you're looking for a high-quality, secure, and comfy crib mattress that won't break the bank, be sure to read our reviews of the best crib mattresses! Most parents find that the cost of a portable or normal crib is the best option.

The next step up in cost is typically a convertible crib, then a multipurpose crib. Prices for speciality, circular cribs are typically the same as or higher than those for standard, rectangular cribs.

Recommended Precautions

Hollowed-out logs, wood, wicker, and even papyrus have all been used at various points in history as crib construction materials. Those times, thankfully, have passed. Crib safety has become an increasingly studied topic in recent years.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission mandated that all cribs produced after 2011 fulfil their criteria (CPSC). The date it was manufactured must be clearly displayed on the crib so that parents can easily check that it is safe.

By the end of that year, several government entities had joined the discussion about making cribs safer for infants. As a result of the CPSC's efforts, the United States Government banned drop-side cribs as a precautionary measure.

The Academy of Pediatrics has also raised concerns about bumpers, and the FDA has expressed similar concerns about sleep positioners. The following are some extra measures of protection that parents should consider.

• Maximal space between a crib's siderails is 2 3/8 inches (or about the width of a soda can). Why? This distance ensures the infant won't get caught or squished. Avoid cuts in the headboard and footboard of the crib as well.
• No corner post should be more than 1/16 of an inch in height. Anything over your child's head could potentially catch on their clothes.
• There should be nothing in the crib with the baby, not even a blanket or pillow. They can get by with just a waterproof mattress pad and a fitted sheet. Having machine-washable bedding makes washing day much less of a chore for most parents; just remember to use a mild, unscented detergent so as not to irritate the baby's skin. Use a swaddling blanket to keep your baby toasty if they look chilly.
• Babies are especially vulnerable to the allergens in dust and pet dander. If you utilise a crib skirt, the underside of the crib needs to be vacuumed regularly. Keep pets away from the crib as an extra precaution against marking and fur contamination.
• Keep the crib apart from any windows, drapes, cords, or anything else that a baby could pull on. Baby mobiles are safe to hang, but they should be out of reach.
• Crib mattresses should be a close fit and should extend to the end of the bed's frame. If you can put more than two fingers between the crib and the side of the mattress, it is too tiny for the crib.
• If you're using a crib that was passed down to you, be sure it's up to date on safety regulations. Verify that the hinges are secure and that there are no sharp or projecting edges. Make sure there are no splinters or rough edges in the wood's finish.

Aside from These Features, You Should Think About When Purchasing a Crib

• The space between a crib's slats should be no more than 2 and 3/8 inches. If the space is any larger, the infant could become trapped by their arms or legs.
• No corner post should be more than 1/16 of an inch in height. A child's clothing could get trapped in it if it's any higher.
• If the crib side rails are to be placed at the maximum height of 52 inches, then there should be at least a 26 inch gap between them and the highest point of the lowest mattress.
• Baby-safe, non-toxic paints should be used exclusively by the brand you select for the nursery.
• Mattresses for cribs should be purchased simultaneously with or shortly after the selection of a crib is made. The maximum thickness for a safe and comfortable crib mattress is 6 inches. To learn more about what to look for in a crib mattress, please read on.
• Sheet for the mattress: Along with a snug mattress, it's crucial to equip the crib with a couple plush fitted sheets. They, along with some waterproof pads, serve to keep liquids from leaking through the mattress.
• Drop-side cribs are no longer compliant with current safety standards and must have a side rail installed. You should only ever buy a crib with stationary, fixed side rails.
• Look on the CPSC website to determine if the crib you want to buy has been recalled.

Precautions to Take Before Setting Up Your Nursery

• Instructions for building your crib are included. It's crucial that you stick to them for a safe and secure crib set up. Verify the crib's stability and apparent strength.
• Bumpers on cribs are unnecessary and can put babies at risk of suffocation or strangling.
• To put it plainly, less is more when it comes to nursery decor. Pillows, soft toys, and blankets should not be added to the baby's cot or mattress, no matter how tempting they may be.
• Keep cribs far from any windows and secure any drapery or cords that might fall on the mattress.
• Prevent dust from accumulating on the underside of a crib by routinely vacuuming it.
• Check the air circulation in the nursery or room you plan to use as a crib's location.
• Buying a used crib is not recommended, but if you must, check sure it complies with all current safety regulations.

Make Your Bedroom a Safe Place to Sleep

Mattresses are not often included with cribs, so parents should measure the crib and choose a mattress that will fit snugly inside it. The mattress should be very firm and not droop under the baby's weight, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The sheets should fit the mattress snugly.

At least 26 inches should separate the top of the mattress and the top of the crib rail. Parents should look for cribs that allow the mattress to be placed at various heights.

The distance between the crib's slats or bars shouldn't be more than 2 3/8 inches. Pillows, blankets, and toys should not be placed in the crib at any time. Additionally, parents shouldn't use bumper pads that attach to or prop against the crib's slats or sides.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a statement claiming that "Crib bumpers are cosmetic solely; they serve no safety purpose whatsoever." Since CPSC started looking into this problem in 2012, more and more data has emerged showing that crib bumpers constitute a major suffocation hazard to children. In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises that the headboard and footboard of the crib be constructed of solid wood without any cutouts for decoration. Furthermore, cribs should not have corner posts that can catch on garments and cause entanglement or other injuries.

Conclusion

It's crucial to think about more than just looks when browsing cribs. Standard cribs are built to last and are straightforward in design, with four solid walls and slats on the other sides. Some infants benefit from having more space to move around in a standard-sized crib. Convertible cribs, also called "lifetime cribs" or "3-in-1 cribs," are rapidly gaining popularity due to their adaptability. They can be easily converted into twin beds or full size beds once a child outgrows the crib stage.

Cribs that can be converted into other beds are usually labelled with the number of times they can be used. The standard 2-in-1 convertible crib will convert to a toddler bed. Some beds can be transformed into five different configurations, including two full-size bed options. Crib prices can vary widely depending on the brand and design features. Most cribs cost between $150 to $800, with the most expensive going up to $1,200 or more.

Good quality mattresses can add another $150-$300 to your total. Drop-side cribs have been banned in the U.S. since 2012, but there are extra measures of protection that parents should consider. Maximal space between a crib's siderails is 2 3/8 inches - this distance ensures the infant won't get caught or squished. Mattresses for cribs should be purchased simultaneously with or shortly after the selection of a crib is made. Minimum thickness for a safe and comfortable crib mattress is 6 inches.

Drop-side cribs are no longer compliant with current safety standards and must have a side rail installed. Mattresses are not often included with cribs, so parents should measure the crib and choose a mattress that will fit snugly inside it. Parents should keep cribs far from any windows and secure any drapery or cords that might fall on the mattress.

Content Summary

• It's a lot of fun to plan a nursery!
• Considering that the baby will spend the better part of the next two years in the crib, it is clear that this is one of the most crucial purchases you will make prior to the delivery.
• We've put together this guide to save you time by exploring the various styles of cribs available, as well as the fundamentals of cribs, crib safety, and other important considerations.
• The following six child care facilities are among our top picks.
• Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of each option and how they can fit into your life.
• A baby can stretch out in comfort in a standard-sized crib.
• There is a wide variety of standard cribs available to match any nursery's design scheme.
• Things to keep an eye out for: When compared to convertible cribs, one of the main advantages of regular cribs is the variety of styles and colours from which parents can choose.
• The alternatives available to parents are likely to include a wide variety of styles that will work with nursery decor.
• Parents who don't want to have more children or who are seeking for a permanent furniture solution may find the convertible crib to be the best option.
• The advantages of convertible cribs include the flexibility they provide to parents as their children age.
• Convertible cribs can be easily converted into twin beds or full size beds once a child outgrows the crib stage.
• Depending on your needs, you may be able to switch between a toddler bed, a daybed, and a full-size bed with some models.
• Many baby furniture stores carry convertible cribs as a standard item.
• Once you factor in the cost of the crib itself, the additional rails, hardware, and maybe a new mattress for certain models, a convertible crib can quickly surpass the price of a normal crib.
• Things to keep an eye out for: When shopping for a convertible crib, parents should prioritise finding one with as many features as possible.
• The standard 2-in-1 convertible crib will convert to a toddler bed.
• Think about getting a portable crib.
• The bottom line is that, similar to bassinets, portable cribs shouldn't be used on a regular basis.
• Narrow Crib The mini-crib is a popular alternative for families with limited room in their homes.
• Budgeting for a crib mattress might be difficult as well; good quality mattresses can add another $150-$300 to your total.
• Most parents find that the cost of a portable or normal crib is the best option.
• As a result of the CPSC's efforts, the United States Government banned drop-side cribs as a precautionary measure.
• The following are some extra measures of protection that parents should consider.
• Maximal space between a crib's siderails is 2 3/8 inches (or about the width of a soda can).
• Avoid cuts in the headboard and footboard of the crib as well.
• There should be nothing in the crib with the baby, not even a blanket or pillow.
• If you can put more than two fingers between the crib and the side of the mattress, it is too tiny for the crib.
• If the crib side rails are to be placed at the maximum height of 52 inches, then there should be at least a 26 inch gap between them and the highest point of the lowest mattress.
• Baby-safe, non-toxic paints should be used exclusively by the brand you select for the nursery.
• Mattresses for cribs should be purchased simultaneously with or shortly after the selection of a crib is made.
• The maximum thickness for a safe and comfortable crib mattress is 6 inches.
• To learn more about what to look for in a crib mattress, please read on.
• Sheet for the mattress: Along with a snug mattress, it's crucial to equip the crib with a couple plush fitted sheets.
• You should only ever buy a crib with stationary, fixed side rails.
• Look on the CPSC website to determine if the crib you want to buy has been recalled.
• Precautions to Take Before Setting Up Your Nursery Instructions for building your crib are included.
• It's crucial that you stick to them for a safe and secure crib set up.
• Verify the crib's stability and apparent strength.
• Pillows, soft toys, and blankets should not be added to the baby's cot or mattress, no matter how tempting they may be.
• Keep cribs far from any windows and secure any drapery or cords that might fall on the mattress.
• Prevent dust from accumulating on the underside of a crib by routinely vacuuming it.
• Check the air circulation in the nursery or room you plan to use as a crib's location.
• Buying a used crib is not recommended, but if you must, check sure it complies with all current safety regulations.
• The sheets should fit the mattress snugly.
• At least 26 inches should separate the top of the mattress and the top of the crib rail.
• Parents should look for cribs that allow the mattress to be placed at various heights.
• Pillows, blankets, and toys should not be placed in the crib at any time.
• Additionally, parents shouldn't use bumper pads that attach to or prop against the crib's slats or sides.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a statement claiming that "Crib bumpers are cosmetic solely; they serve no safety purpose whatsoever."