Crib Sets - Everything You Need For Your Newborn to Sleep Soundly From Day One
The best cribs include everything your baby needs to rest comfortably from the first day. They're pre-shrunk and machine washable and designed to fit tightly around the mattress without bunching - a major safety hazard for babies.
One tester for parents said that she had used it for two babies, and then passed it on to a friend. This makes it a wise purchase. Its sleek design makes it a great option for small nursery spaces.
Bedding
There are many choices when it comes to bedding for your crib. It's not just about choosing one that is in line with your personal style. You should also make sure the sheet is fitted tightly and doesn't get tangled in places that could be an choking risk to your child. It should also be soft to the touch and durable enough to withstand months of diaper blowouts and spit-up spills without wearing out too fast.
This set from Avocado is one of our favorite. It includes two sheets made of 100% certified organic GOTS cotton. The textiles are also MADE SAFE certified, a non-responsible third-party certification that guarantees that the products of the company meet rigorous standards for quality and safety. The sheets are pre-shrunk to guarantee that they won't shrink or stretch after washing. They also fit on a standard crib bed (27 1 4 inches wide by 51 5/8 inches long). The blankets are machine washable to get rid of the inevitable mess that your little bundle will make.
Another great option for infants and toddlers is crib mattress pads which provides an additional layer of comfort while also protecting the mattress against accidents and staining. Choose a mattress cover that is less than one inch thick to allow your child to breathe. Beware of things that are too soft or has long ribbons, bows and other ornaments that could become detached and pose the risk of strangulation.
If you're planning to keep your baby in a crib for quite some time, think about buying a convertible crib. These beds typically convert to a toddler bed and occasionally to a daybed or full-size bed as well. Some cribs come with the necessary conversion kits however, others require a separate purchase.
Some of our top cribs include this Dream On Me Ashton 5-in-1 crib that is sleigh-style, constructed of solid wood and comes with one of the taller mattress heights (for parents who are worried about reaching down to a low mattress). We also love that it's Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it meets the strictest environmental standards to prevent off-gassing.
Mattress
Firmness and size are important when it comes to crib mattress. The AAP recommends a mattress that is firm and fits comfortably and does not leave an indentation when you lay a sheet down on it. The mattress should be the correct size for the crib and it should remain in place, even after your baby grows out of it.
Additionally, you'll need to determine if the mattress is made from chemicals that could be harmful to your child. Look for a mattress that is odor-free and free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)--which typically emit a unpleasant chemical smell. A good indication is a CertiPUR US certificate that certifies that the foam used in a mattress is free of ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP and TCEP flame retardants, mercury, lead and other heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates, which are regulated by Consumer Product Safety Commission, and volatile organic compounds.
Other things to think about include how much weight the mattress is weighing and whether it's waterproof or not. A surface that is waterproof or wipeable is more suitable for cleaning since you'll have to change sheets at night. The Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2-Stage is the heaviest of the selection we tested at 20 lbs, which may be a nagging issue for some parents.
Another aspect to be aware of is whether the mattress is dual-sided. Some include a firm side for infants and the soft toddler side. Pediatricians suggest flipping the mattress when your child is at the peak of their normal growth, which is usually about 12 months.
When we tested crib mattresses, we measured them and observed how they folded and moved to dress the sides with sheets. We also put an 8-pound weight, slightly heavier than that of a newborn baby on each mattress to see how it reacted. The top mattresses did not sink into the mattress this means they provide enough support to keep your child from falling out of bed while they sleep or suffocate. cots 4 tots of the mattresses we tested come with an easily washable, removable cover that is waterproof and zips shut. This makes cleaning them and maintaining them much easier.
Crib Rails
A crib can't be complete without a set of rails fixed. While some baby furniture companies offer baby rails along with the crib however, some offer them separately. If you choose to buy the rails separately, ensure that they meet the safety standards. For instance, they should be free of missing or loose screws, brackets or other hardware. They should be strong enough to withstand your child's weight, but not too thin. They should also be able to lock securely into place so they are not able to be removed by your child.
The crib rails need to not only be sturdy and sturdy, but they should also fit within the frame of the crib. This will keep the mattress from becoming flimsy and potentially hazardous for your child. When buying a crib rail, be sure to examine the inside of the frame as there are slight variations in the size of cribs. The dimensions should be no wider than three fingers.
It is also important to ensure that the crib rails do not include any cutouts with decorative designs or other adornments. They can create a suffocation risk. Avoid placing pillows, quilts blankets, sheepskins and blankets inside the crib. They can result in a dangerous accumulation of carbon dioxide, increasing your baby's SIDS risk. If you're looking to add a soft sleeping surface in the crib, you can try a crib pad-and-cover combo. These products consist of a mattress pad made of waterproof material and a fitted "skirt" that fits around the mattress just like a fitted sheet.
In the end, you'll need to get the right crib rail protectors. They are specifically designed to cushion your baby's head if it hits the crib railings while feeding or cradling him or her beside the bed. They can also stop the formation of marks from teeth and drool on the crib's fixed side railings.
You'll need to purchase a toddler railing once your child is no longer in their crib. This will ensure they are safe in their bed until they are ready for a bigger bed. Sweetpea Baby has a convertible crib toddler guard rail that is compatible with the majority of cribs. It's easy to install and complies with CPSC safety standards.
Crib Hardware
Some aspects of crib design are only aesthetic or otherwise subject to personal p reference , but others--such as the style of slats or whether the crib converts into an infant bed--can have a major impact on ease of use and the length of time the crib will last. The most durable cribs are made of solid wood construction, meet multiple safety standards, and are easily adaptable to various mattress heights. Some cribs come with special features that make them more effective like the Quick Zip Crib Sheet that allows you to swap the sheets without taking the entire mattress from the crib.
Generally speaking, you should avoid cribs with decorative cut-outs or other ornaments which could get caught on clothes or pose a choking risk for infants. Also, be certain to check the crib hardware regularly for loose bolts or objects that could snag on clothing or other objects and create a hazard.
The most effective crib sets come with easy-to-follow instructions and all the essential components, including hardware. Most modern cribs can be assembled in half an hour or less, and most come with all the tools required.
Consider a convertible crib which can be converted into a daybed, toddler or a full-size mattress. This is a great option for families who plan to use the crib for a number of years or have a limited space. tots and cots is important to remember, though, that some crib conversion kits require additional purchases to complete the conversion.
Crib hardware can be a bit difficult to grasp, but it's essential to ensure safety and stability. The majority of cribs have a system of rectangular blocks as well as wedges (also known as "shims") and huge chocks, also known as step chocks, all designed to secure the contact points between the crib and its support surface.
Some shims or chocks could be made of soft woods, which break slowly. This can give an audible warning prior to when they fail. However, woods that are more rigid might break more quickly and with greater force. Shims and chocks made of plastic are also available for purchase. They are easier to install, since they don't require drilling into the surface.