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 very first day. They are already shrunk and machine washable. They are designed to fit comfortably on the mattress without bunching - a major risk to the safety of babies.
One parent testigator said she used hers through two babies and passed it to a relative which makes it a wise purchase. Its streamlined design also makes it a great option for minimalist nurseries.
Bedding
When it concerns crib bedding, there are a lot of options available. But picking the right one is more than picking a cute pattern to be in line with your preferences. You need to find one that is firmly fitted and doesn't clump up in places where it could be a suffocation hazard for your baby. It must be soft and sturdy enough to withstand blowouts from diapers, spills, and other messes for a long time without fading.
The Avocado set is one of our favorite. It comes with two sheets that are made from 100% certified organic GOTS cotton. The textiles are also MADE SAFE certified, an independent third-party certification that guarantees that the company's products are in compliance with strict standards for quality and safety. They're pre-shrunk to ensure they don't shrink or stretch after washing, and they're designed to fit a standard crib mattress (27 1 The blanket's size is 4 inches wide and 51 5/8 inches long. The blankets can be washed to get rid of the inevitable mess that your little bundle is likely to make.
Another option for infants and toddlers is crib mattress pads which provides an additional layer of comfort while also protecting the mattress from spills and stains. Look for mattress pads that are less than an inch thick to ensure your child can breathe easily. And steer clear of anything that's too soft or has long ribbons, bows and other ornaments that could be removed and create the risk of strangulation.
If you plan to keep your baby in a crib for quite some time, you should consider purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted to a toddler bed, and occasionally even a full-size daybed. Some cribs include the conversion kits, whereas others require a separate purchase.
This Dream On Me Ashton 5 in 1 crib is one of our top picks. It's constructed of solid wood and features one of the highest mattress heights (for parents who worry about reaching a low mattress). It's also Greenguard Gold-certified, which means it meets the strictest environmental standards for reduced off gassing.
Mattress
Size and firmness are crucial when it comes to crib mattress. The AAP recommends a firm mattress that fits comfortably and does not leave an indentation on the surface when you put sheets over it. The mattress should be the appropriate size for the crib and remain in place, even when your child is out of it.
You should also determine whether the mattress has substances that could harm your child. Find a mattress that is free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which release an unpleasant chemical odor. CertiPUR US certification is a good sign. It certifies that the foam in the mattress is free of ozone depleters as well as other harmful chemicals.
Other things to consider are the weight of the mattress and whether or not it is waterproof. A waterproof or wipeable surface is better for cleaning, because you'll be changing sheets every night. The Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2Stage is the largest product we've tested, weighing in at 20 lbs. This may be a deal-breaker for some parents.
Another important thing to consider is if the mattress is dual-sided. Some include a firm side for infants and the soft toddler side. Pediatricians recommend flipping your child's mattress when they reach the height of normal growth. This usually occurs about 12 months old.
best cots for newborns measured the mattresses and then observed how easily they folded to cover the sides of the crib with sheets. We also put the weight of 8 pounds, slightly heavier than that of a newborn baby on each mattress to determine how it reacts. The top mattresses did not sink, which means they offer enough support to keep your child from falling over or suffocating in bed. A few 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 a breeze.
Crib Rails
A crib would not be complete without the proper set of fixed rails. While some baby furniture companies include a set of baby rails with their cribs and others sell them separately. If you opt to purchase them separately, look for rails that meet the safety requirements. For instance, they must be free of any missing or loose screws, brackets or other hardware. They should also be able to support the weight of your child, but not be too flimsy. They should also to secure themselves so that they can't be removed from your child.
The crib rails you choose should not only be strong, they should be able to fit snugly into the frame of the crib. This will prevent the mattress from becoming flimsy, which can be unsafe for your child. When purchasing crib rails, make sure to take measurements of the inside of the frame as there are slight variations in crib sizes. The space should ideally not be larger than three fingers.
Also, you should make sure the crib rails are free of decorative cut-outs and other adornments, which can be potential dangers to suffocate your child. Avoid placing pillows blankets, blankets, quilts, and sheepskins on the crib, since they can contribute to the carbon dioxide build-up and increase the risk of SIDS. If you're looking to add an extra soft surface for sleeping in the crib, try a crib pad and cover combo. These are comprised of a mattress pad that is waterproof and a fitted "skirt" that fits around the mattress like an fitted sheet.
Lastly, you'll want to get the right crib rail protectors. These are specifically designed to cushion your baby's head if it happens to hit the crib railings while feeding or cradling him or her beside the bed. They also help to prevent teeth 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 ensure they are safe in their the crib 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 meets all of the safety standards of the CPSC.
Crib Hardware
Some aspects of crib design are solely aesthetic or otherwise subject to personal preference however other aspects, such as the design of slats or whether a crib can be converted into an infant bed--can have a major influence on the ease of use as well as how long the crib will last. The best cribs feature solid wood construction, comply with multiple safety standards, and are adaptable to various mattress heights. Certain cribs come with special features that make them more useful. For example, the Quick Zip Crib Sheet lets you replace the sheets without removing the entire mattress.
You should avoid cribs with ornamental cutouts or other designs, as they could snag on clothing or pose a risk of choking for babies. Also, be sure to check the crib's hardware frequently for loose bolts or other items that could catch on clothing or other objects and create danger.
The top crib sets include easy-to-follow directions and all the essential components, like hardware. The majority of modern cribs take half-hour or less to put together, and a majority come with all the equipment you'll need.
Think about best cots for newborns that can be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed or full-size mattress. This is a good option for families who plan to use the crib for many years or have a limited space. It is important to know that some crib conversion kit require additional purchases to complete the process.
It isn't easy to comprehend crib hardware, but it is vital for security and stability. The majority of cribs are made up consisting of rectangular blocks, wedges (also called "shims") and large chocks known as step chocks. They are all designed to strengthen the connections between the crib and the supported surface.
Some chocks and shims are made from soft woods that break slowly, which can provide audible warnings before they fail as more robust wood materials may break suddenly and with more force. Shims and chocks made of plastic are also available for purchase. They are much easier to install since they don't require drilling into the surface.