A Peek Into The Secrets Of Crib Sets
Crib Sets - Everything You Need For Your Newborn to Sleep Soundly From Day One
The best cribs come with everything your baby needs to be comfortable from the very first day. They're pre-shrunk and machine washable and designed to be able to sit tightly around the mattress without bunching - a significant safety risk for babies.
One parent tester stated that she had used hers for two babies, and then passed it on to a friend. This makes it a smart buy. Its sleek design makes it a good option for nurseries with minimalist designs.
Bedding
When it is time to choose a crib bedding, there are a variety of options out there. But choosing the right sheet is more than picking a cute pattern to fit your style. You must also find something that fits tightly and doesn't bunch up in places where it could pose a danger of suffocation for your baby. It should also be soft to the touch and durable enough to withstand months of blowouts in diapers and spit-up without wearing out too fast.
This set from Avocado is one of our favorites. It includes two sheets that are made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton. The textiles are also MADE SAFE certified, which is an independent third-party certification that assures that the company's products are in compliance with strict standards for quality and safety. They're pre-shrunk so they won't stretch or shrink after washing, and they're made to fit on a standard crib mattress (27 1 4 inches wide by 51 5/8 inches long). They're also machine-washable to clean the inevitable mess your little bundle of joy is sure to make.
A crib mattress pad is another great option for babies and toddlers. It adds an extra layer of comfort and protects the mattress from accidents and stains. Choose a mattress pad that's less than an inch thick so your child is able to breathe easily. Avoid anything that's too soft or is adorned with 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 the crib for a considerable amount of time, consider buying a convertible crib. These top ranked cribs can be converted to a toddler cheap cot bed, or even a full-size daybed. Some cribs come with the necessary conversion kits included but some require a purchase.
A few of our most-loved cribs include this Dream On Me Ashton 5-in-1 crib that is sleigh-style, made from solid wood and features one of the taller mattress heights (for parents who are concerned about reaching down to a low mattress). We also love that it's Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it meets the strictest environmental standards to reduce off-gassing.
Mattress
Size and firmness are crucial when it comes to a crib mattress. The AAP recommends a mattress that is firm, fits snugly and does not leave an indentation when you lay a sheet down on it. The mattress must also be the proper size for the crib and it should remain in place even after your child gets out of it.
You should also determine if the mattress contains chemicals that could harm your child. Find mattresses that are odorless and free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)--which frequently emit a noxious chemical smell. A good sign is a certificate from CertiPUR-US, which certifies that the mattress's foam 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 factors to consider include the weight of the mattress and whether or not it is waterproof. A mattress that is waterproof or able to be cleaned is better for cleaning, since you'll be changing sheets at night. The Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2-Stage is the largest of the selection we tested at 20 lbs, which may be a nagging issue for certain parents.
Another important thing to consider is whether the mattress is dual-sided; some of these include a firm side for infants and a soft toddler side. Pediatricians recommend flipping your child's mattress once they reach the height of normal growth. This is typically about 12 months old.
When testing crib mattresses, we weighed them and looked at how easily they folded and maneuvered to dress the sides with sheets. We also placed an 8-pound tin, slightly heavier than a newborn, on each one to see how it reacted. The most effective mattresses did not sink in this means they provide enough support to prevent your child from falling out of the bed while they sleep or drowning. The mattresses we tested had a removable cover that can be machine-washed and is water-proof. This makes cleaning and maintaining them more simple.
Crib Rails
A crib can't be complete without the right set of rails that are fixed. While some cribs for babies include a set of baby rails with their cribs, others offer the rails separately. If you choose to buy the rails separately, ensure that they meet all safety standards. They should, for instance be free of loose or missing screws, brackets, or other hardware. They should also be able to support the weight of your child, but not be too fragile. They should also be able be secured in a secure way so that they cannot be removed from your child.
The crib rails should not only be strong and sturdy, but they should also fit within the frame of the crib. This will keep the mattress from becoming too fragile and could be hazardous for your child. When purchasing crib rails, be sure to take measurements of the inside of the frame, since there are slight variations in the size of cribs. The area should be no wider than three fingers.
It is also important to make sure the crib rails are devoid of decorative cut-outs and other adornments, which can be potential suffocation hazards. Avoid placing pillows blankets, blankets, quilts or sheepskins in the crib as these can contribute to the accumulation of carbon dioxide and increase the risk of SIDS. Consider a crib pad and cover for a comfortable sleeping mattress for your baby. These are comprised of a waterproof mattress pad and an elongated "skirt" that fits around the mattress like a fitted sheet.
In the end, you'll need to get the right crib rail guards. They are designed to cushion your baby's head in the event that it falls on the crib railings while feeding or cradling him or her on the bed. They also help to prevent dental marks and drool discoloration on the crib's railings that are fixed.
You'll have to purchase an infant guardrail when your child is no longer in their crib. This will keep them safely in bed until they are ready for a bigger bed. Sweetpea Baby offers a convertible crib toddler rail that can work with most standard cribs. It is simple to install and Most Recommended Cribs meets CPSC safety standards.
Crib Hardware
Certain aspects of the crib's design are solely aesthetic or otherwise dependent on personal preference, however, other aspects--like the style of slats or whether the crib converts into an infant bed--can have a major influence on the ease of use and how long the crib will last. The best cribs have solid wood construction, comply with numerous safety standards, and are configurable to a variety of mattress heights. Certain cribs have unique features that make them more useful such as the Quick Zip Crib Sheet, which allows you to swap the sheets without removing the entire mattress from the crib.
Generally speaking, you should avoid cribs with ornamental cut-outs, or other decorations that could catch on clothing or pose a risk of choking for infants. Check the crib hardware for loose bolts, as well as other items that can catch on objects or clothing.
The most effective crib sets come with simple instructions as well as all the required components, like hardware. Most modern cribs take a half hour or less to assemble, and a lot come with all the tools you'll require.
Consider a convertible crib which can be converted into a daybed, toddler or full-size mattress. This is a great purchase for families who plan to keep the crib for many years or who have little space in their homes. You should be aware that some crib conversion kits require additional items to complete the process.
It can be difficult to understand crib hardware, but it is vital for safety and stability. Most cribs feature the rectangular blocks and wedges (also known as "shims") and big chocks referred to as step chocks, all designed to ensure that contact points are secure between the crib and the supported surface.
Some chocks and shims are made from soft woods that break slowly, and can give audible warnings before they fail and more rigid wood materials may break suddenly and with more force. Choks and shims made of plastic are also available and can be installed more easily since they do not require drilling or screwing into the surface.