One of the most joyment moments in the parents’ life is when they are welcoming their baby into their family. Amidst this immense joy, they are also overcome with the sense of responsibility. One of the biggest responsibilities is creating a safe and loving environment for the baby where they can sleep and dream peacefully. Among the must-haves for new parents, baby cribs hold a special place. It’s where your baby will sleep, rest, and spend a lot of their early days. That’s why choosing the best baby crib is so important. If you’re a new parent or shopping for a crib for the first time, don’t worry! This guide will help you navigate everything you need to know about baby cribs, so you can pick the one that’s just right for your baby.
Safety Features You Should Look For in Baby Cribs
No Drop-Side Rails
One of the most talked-about features in older cribs is drop-side rails. These were designed to make it easier for parents to pick up and lay down their baby by lowering one side of the crib. While this might sound convenient, it comes with significant safety risks. According to the current safety guidelines, it is recommended to avoid the rails because they can cause your child to become trapped in the crib. This is why you should always choose fixed sides.
Measure the Crib Slats
When you are choosing a baby crib, you should always pay close attention to the spacing of the slats. The slats are the vertical bars on the sides of the crib and the distance between them should not be more than 6 cm. If the gap between them is wider than 6 cm, then your baby’s head could get stuck between them while trying to crawl out of the crib. To make it easier to visualize, the space between the slats should be no wider than the width of a soda can.
Avoid Sharp or Protruding Designs
A crib should have a smooth and simple structure. Although you might believe that cute decorations look appealing in nurseries, it is wise to avoid them completely. Such sharp edges and protruding decorations, or even uneven surfaces can hurt your baby’s skin. This is why you should look for rounded edges and minimalistic designs for the best baby cribsf.
Certified Non-Toxic Materials
Babies tend to bite into things that are within their reach, including baby crib rails. This habit is especially common when they’re teething. In this case, it is necessary to choose baby cribs made with non-toxic materials that are sturdy as well. The best options are those crafted from solid wood and finished with non-toxic, water based paints. You should also avoid cribs containing harmful chemicals like lead, BPA, or formaldehyde.
Convertible Cribs
If you are looking for a versatile option that can also serve multiple purposes in the future, then convertible cribs are a fantastic option. These cribs can grow with your child, transitioning from a crib to a toddler bed, and sometimes even into a full-sized bed. Although their price can be slightly higher than standard cribs, they can still save you money in the long run as you will not need to spend on new furniture.
Choosing the Right Mattress
Every crib is incomplete without a reliable mattress. This is why when you are selecting a baby mattress, you should make sure that it’s firm. A firm mattress allows your baby to have a much better support for their developing spine. In addition to providing adequate support for their back, firm mattresses also reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death SYndrome (SIDS). Moreover, there should be no gaps alongside the edges of the mattress and it should fit snugly.
Tips for Setting Up Your Baby Crib
Keep the Crib Away from Curtains: Firstly, you should never place a baby crib near the curtains, blinds, or windows. Your baby could grab onto them and try to crawl out of their crib when you are not around. Additionally, the curtains could also increase their risk of strangulation.
Avoid Direct Heat or Sunlight: Secondly, it is also important that you do not place the crib directly under a direct source of heat, whether it’s a heater or sunlight. This way, you’ll be able to maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature for your baby.
Maintain a Clutter-Free Crib: Another necessary step is to make sure that your baby’s crib is free from items like pillows, blankets, or toys during sleep. Remember, a clutter-free crib is a safe crib!
Conclusion
Baby cribs are one of the most important pieces of baby furniture, which is why you should pay close attention to the details while choosing one. They are your baby’s safe space for rest and sleep. When shopping for the best baby cribs, focus on safety features like fixed side rails, tightly spaced slats, and non-toxic materials. Similarly, practical features like convertible designs or foldable options can also add value and convenience to the crib you choose. Don’t forget to pair your crib with a firm, snug-fitting mattress for added safety and comfort. In short, with the best baby cribs and the important tips, your baby can have the safest sleep ever!
