Getting Started
A crib is one of the most important purchases parents make for their babies. With the majority of time is spent in a crib, your baby needs both safety and comfort. There are so many cribs available that it can be overwhelming when trying to pick out the best one for you and your baby. Consider buying a new crib to ensure the best safety for your baby. Most new cribs adhere to federal safety guidelines, but many older ones do not. As technology and research evolves, so do the standards for product safety. Older cribs also are risky due to bad construction and deterioration. Many even have missing parts that can be dangerous for your baby. Buying online is ideal because you have a wider array of choices. You can truly pick out the best crib for every aspect you wish. Otherwise, you may be stuck just settling for what is available in stores at the moment. It's also time consuming to shop around in person. There are many good deals online to take advantage of too. Some people also find it convenient to have a product shipped to their door rather than having to make arrangements to pick it up. Whatever your preferences are in choosing a crib, there are several things that will help you in shopping for the right crib:
Types
- Standard. This is the most common type of crib. It has a rectangular shape and fits a standard size mattress. It doesn't typically come with additional accessories.
- Round. This circular shaped crib requires a round mattress, but this unique option may work best when arranging the furniture and set-up of the nursery room or area.
- Portable. Because it folds easily for storage, a portable crib can be the most convenient option. It also makes taking a crib apart much quicker and easier. It also takes up a lot less space. It has wheels that enable easy movement from room to room. It can be used for traveling since it is easy to pack and lightweight.
- Convertible. It can transform into several pieces of furniture, besides a crib: toddler bed, daybed, single bed, twin size bed and bench.
Options for convertible cribs 2-in-1 - standard crib, full, twin size 3-in-1 - standard crib, full, twin size, daybed 4-in-1 - standard crib, full, twin size, daybed, toddler
Features
- Attached Changing Tables. They are normally used for diapering needs, but can also be used as a table or shelf.
- Storage. This can be a bottom drawer that attaches to the crib or that slides underneath it. Some cribs even come with built-storage such as drawers, shelves, or removable bins.
- Teething Rails. These are plastic bands that fit across the crib’s rails. They help shield the rails to prevent your baby from biting on them. If a crib does not come with these, they can be purchased separately.
- Rolling Casters. Many cribs come with wheels that make the crib easier to move around. They should have wheel locks to keep the wheels from moving.
Brands
- Athena
- Babyletto
- Childcraft
- DaVinci
- Delta Children
- Disney
- Dolce Babi
- Fisher Price
- Graco
- L.A. Baby
- Naturepedic
- Sealy
- Simmons Kids
- Sorelle
- Stork Craft
- Westwood Designs
Crib Safety
- Look for a crib that has underwent testing for quality and safety.
- Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website to see if the crib is on the recall list.
- Make sure the spacing of the crib slates or the measurements in safety guidelines.
- Check the crib’s condition such as paint quality and any splinters, sharp edges, or exposed nails.
- Check mattress size and fit. Make sure it is the correct one for that particular crib.
- Always read and follow the assembly instructions that are included with the crib.
- Do not place items in the crib such as toys, thick blankets, or anything that could be used to help a baby crawl out of the crib or pose a risk of suffocating.
- Do not place the crib near windows, curtains, blinds or long cords.
- Read and follow warnings provided with the crib, as these can be unique and specific to that particular crib.
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