When it’s time to welcome a new member into your family, it brings a lot of responsibilities along with excitement. Parents start creating a list of all the essential items to welcome their little one and shower them with love. In this case, there’s one necessary item that you cannot miss–a baby crib. Baby cribs are the best thing that you’ll get for your baby because it’s where they will spend a lot of their early life. However, it’s also important to choose the right crib to keep your baby safe. So, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the perfect baby crib.

Top Things to Consider While Choosing Baby Cribs

Safety First: No Drop-Side Rails

One of the first things that comes into consideration while getting cribs is the safety element. According to the modern safety standards for baby cribs, drop-side rails are considered unsafe. These side rails were once a popular choice for parents because they could easily lower the crib from side and hold their baby. However, with time, it was revealed that there are some serious risks that come with this crib design, such as suffocation and entrapment. This is why avoiding this design can keep your baby safe. 

Slat Spacing: Keep It Tight

In addition to avoiding the drop-side rails, you should also look for the distance between the crib slats. Slats are the bars on a crib and the distance between them should be no more than 6 cm apart. The reason that this is such an important safety factor is that if the slats are too far apart, then it can cause the baby’s head to get stuck in that space. Therefore, the empty space should not be greater than the width of a soda can, on a rough scale. 

Safe Construction

It is quite common to find baby cribs that have cute designs or decorative cutouts. However, it is wise to avoid designs that have sharp cutout or protruding parts. This is because such designs can be dangerous for the delicate skin of your little one. Moreover, the corner posts of the crib should also be at the same height as the end panels. If the posts are of a different height, then there’s a chance that your baby’s clothing could get caught in the corners. This, as a result, can lead to an injury. 

Non-Toxic Materials

When shopping for a baby crib, check at the materials that are used in its manufacturing. Babies tend to chew on crib rails once they begin teething, so you’ll want a crib made from non-toxic materials. Look for cribs finished with non-toxic paints or stains, as these are free from harmful chemicals like lead and phthalates. Additionally, the cribs should also have durable materials so that it can be used safely for many years. 

Versatility for More Convenience

You can also look for a more versatile option by going for convertible cribs. A convertible crib or foldable baby crib is an amazing multi-functional piece of furniture that can fulfill various purposes. These cribs are designed to transition from a baby crib to a toddler bed, and in some cases, they can even be turned into a full-sized bed. Therefore, if you’re looking for something simpler and more affordable, a standard crib might be enough. In contrast, a foldable baby crib can be more practical. 

Style and Aesthetics

While safety is very important, your baby crib does not have to be boring at all! You can still find the one that fits the aesthetics of your nursery or personal style. Baby cribs come in a variety of designs, colors, and materials, so you don’t have to settle for something that doesn’t match the rest of your nursery decor. For example, you can either go for a minimalistic design with a classic wooden structure, or even choose colorful options. So, blending functionality and design can give you the best blend. 

Get a Firm Mattress

Apart from picking out a safe crib with reliable bars, it’s also wise to choose the right mattress, which is as important as the crib itself. Firstly, the mattress needs to be firm. This is a significant characteristic because when the mattress is firm, it will support your baby’s body properly without hindering the development of their spine. Additionally, this support will also reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in children. Therefore, a sturdy crib mattress is not only important for your baby’s comfort but also for their safety. 

Conclusion

Baby cribs are a necessity to provide your kids with a safe spot to sleep. However, the best crib is the one that’s safe, practical, and sturdy as well. By focusing on safety features like stationary side rails, tight slat spacing, and a snug-fitting mattress, you can create a safe sleep environment for your little one. Don’t forget to consider practical options like foldable baby cribs if you’re short on space or plan to travel frequently. And if you’re looking for something that will grow with your child, a convertible crib might be the best option for your family.