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Choosing a Baby Crib
The crib you choose for your baby is one of the more important furniture buying choices you will have to make. With your baby sleeping in a crib until it’s time to move on to a full sized bed around the age of 2 or 3, you should take your time in choosing a crib. Be sure that you are satisfied with the safety features, style, finish and quality.
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Types of Baby
Cribs:
Standard: There are two types of standard cribs.
1) Cribs with a single drop side (One side drops).
2) Cribs with double drop sides (Both sides drop). <Usually more
expensive.
Convertible: Convertible cribs convert from a standard crib to a
toddler bed and then to a day or full sized bed. Although convertible
cribs can be more expensive, it will save you from having to buy a
full sized bed when your child outgrows the crib.
Canopy: Canopy cribs have four posts on the corners of the bed, which
hold up a metal frame on which you can place fabric canopies. This
type of crib can give your nursery room a more elegant and classic
look.
Round: Round cribs are becoming a popular option for new parents.
These cribs usually have a single drop side.
Features to look for when buying:
Safety:
1) Distances between crib slats are no more that 2 3/8 inches.
2) Dropsides when lowered are at least 9 inches above the mattress
support.
3) When dropsides are raised, they are at least 26 inches above the
mattress support.
4) Crib mattress fits snugly with no more than two fingers width
between crib side and mattress.
5) Secure dropside locking mechanism.
6) No loose or peeling paint, rough corners, edges or splinters.
Mattress support: Sturdy mattress supports that connect to the crib
sides securely. Keep in mind metal mattress supports will support a
jumping toddler more than wood mattress supports.
Adjustable mattress height: You will be able to lower the mattress as
your child grows.
Rolling Casters with some kind of wheel lock. Convenient feature when
changing sheets.
Teething rail that covers the tops of the railings, which prevents
your toddler from chewing on wood.
Optional products for cribs:
Attachable toys that tie to the railings and musical mobiles that
attach to the crib rail both provide entertainment, stimulation and
help develop coordination.
Sleep positioners position your baby on his or her back or side.
Teething rails made of plastic can be attached to the rails, which
prevent your child from chewing on the wood.
Bumper guards that line all four sides of the crib.
What to avoid:
It is best to avoid second hand and old cribs, especially cribs made
before 1973. Cribs made before this time may contain lead paint, have
splinters, have slats that are to far apart and many other dangers.
Cribs that were manufactured even as recently as 1990 can have safety
problems. If you are thinking of using or buying a second hand crib,
make sure it has not been recalled......
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