Crib Sets - Everything You Need For Your Newborn to Sleep Soundly From Day One
The best cribs have everything your baby needs to rest comfortably from the very first day. They're pre-shrunk, machine washable and designed to fit snugly around the mattress without bunching - a serious safety risk for infants.
One parent tester stated that she had used it for two babies and then passed it on to a friend. This made it a good investment. Its sleek design makes it a perfect choice for smaller nurseries.
Bedding
When it is time to choose a crib bedding, there are plenty of options out there. But picking the right one is more than simply choosing a cute design to be in line with your preferences. You also want something that fits snugly and doesn't bunch up in areas where it could be a suffocation hazard for your baby. It is important to choose a soft and durable material to withstand blowouts from diapers spills, and other messes for a long time without wearing out.
One of our favorites is this set from Avocado It comes with two sheets that are made with 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton and MADE SAFE-certified. This is an independent third-party certification that ensures the company's textiles meet rigorous standards for quality and safety. They're pre-shrunk, which means they won't shrink or stretch after washing, and are designed to fit a standard crib mattress (27 1 4 inches wide by 51 5/8 inches long). The blankets are machine washable to clean up the inevitable mess that your baby will create.
Another great option for newborns and toddlers is crib mattress pads, which adds an extra layer of comfort and protects the mattress against accidents and staining. Choose a mattress cover that is less than one-inch thick to let your child breathe. Avoid anything that is too fluffy or with long ribbons, bows and other adornments. They can fall off and pose a strangulation hazard.
If you're planning to keep your baby in a crib for a long time, consider buying a convertible crib. These beds typically convert to a toddler bed, and sometimes, to a daybed or full-size bed, too. Some cribs come with conversion kits, while others require a separate purchase.
This Dream On Me Ashton 5 in 1 Sleigh crib is among our top picks. It's constructed of solid wood and comes with one of the highest mattress heights (for parents who worry about reaching an unattractive mattress). It's also certified Greenguard Gold, which means it meets the strictest environmental standards to prevent gassing.
Mattress
When it is about crib mattresses, firmness and size are essential. The AAP recommends a mattress that is firm and fits comfortably and does not leave an impression when you lay a sheet down on it. The mattress should be the appropriate size for the crib and should remain in place when your child is out of it.
In addition, you'll want to be aware of whether the mattress is made up of 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 mattress's foam is free of Ozone depleters, PBDEs and TDCPP and TCEP flame retardants mercury, lead, and other heavy metals, formaldehyde Phthalates that are regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and volatile organic compounds.
Other factors to consider include the mattress's weight and whether or not it is waterproof. good cribs that is waterproof or able to be cleaned is better for cleaning, because you'll be changing sheets at night. The Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2Stage is the largest product we've tested, coming around 20 lbs. This could be a problem for some parents.
Another aspect to be aware of is if the mattress is dual-sided; some of these have a firm infant side and the soft toddler side. Pediatricians suggest flipping your child's mattress once they reach the height of normal growth. This is usually around 12 months.
When testing crib mattresses, we measured them and observed how they folded and moved to dress the sides with sheets. We also placed an 8-pound tin, slightly heavier than a newborn, on each mattress to determine how the mattress reacted. The most effective mattresses did not sink in and therefore provide enough support to keep your child from falling out of mattress while sleeping or suffocate. Some of the mattresses we tested have a removable, machine-washable cover that is waterproof and zips closed. This makes cleaning and maintaining them much easier.
Crib Rails
A crib would not be complete without the correct set of rails fixed. Some furniture companies for babies provide baby rails with the crib. Others offer them separately. If you decide to purchase them separately, make sure they meet all safety standards. They should, for example have no loose screws, brackets, or other hardware. They should be sturdy enough to withstand your child's weight without being too thin. They should also lock securely in place so that they cannot be removed from your child.
The crib rails should not only be strong, but also fit snugly within the crib frame. This will prevent the mattress from becoming flimsy, which can be dangerous for your baby. When purchasing crib rails, make sure to measure the inside of the frame as there are slight variations in the sizes of cribs. The ideal space should be no more than three fingers wide.
Also, you should ensure that the crib rails are devoid of cut-outs with decorative designs and other adornments, which can be potential dangers for suffocation. Avoid placing pillows blankets, blankets, quilts or sheepskins on the crib, as these can contribute to the accumulation of carbon dioxide and increase the risk of SIDS. If you're looking to add a soft sleeping surface in the crib, try a crib pad and cover combo. They consist of an upholstered mattress pad, an elongated waterproof lining as well as a fitted "skirt" that stretches over the mattress, much like an fitted sheet.
You'll also need to make sure you have the correct crib rail guards. They are designed to protect the head of your baby if it hits the crib railings when you feed him or her or cradling them next to the bed. They can also help prevent teeth marks and drool discoloration on the crib's railings that are fixed.
You'll need to purchase a toddler railing once your child outgrows their crib. This will keep them safely in bed until they're ready for a bigger bed. Sweetpea Baby offers a convertible crib toddler rail that can fit on most cribs that are standard. It's simple to install and is compliant with the CPSC's safety standards.
Crib Hardware
Some aspects of crib design are purely aesthetic or subject to personal preference, however, other aspects--like the style of slats or whether a crib can be converted into an adult bed--can have a significant influence on the ease of use and how long the crib will last. The most durable cribs are made of solid wood, meet various safety standards, and can be easily configured to different mattress heights. Certain cribs have special features that make them more effective, such as the Quick Zip Crib Sheet, which allows you to change the sheets without removing the entire mattress from the crib.
Avoid cribs that have decorative cutouts or other embellishments because they could get caught on clothing or create the danger of choking children. Also, make sure to check the crib hardware regularly for loose bolts or objects that could get caught on clothing or other objects and create a hazard.
The best crib sets come with easy-to-follow instructions and all necessary parts including hardware. Most modern cribs take a half-hour or less to put together and a lot come with all the equipment you'll need.
Consider a convertible crib which can be transformed into a toddler, daybed or a full-size mattress. This is a good option for families who intend to use the crib for a number of years or have limited space. It's important to note, though, that some crib conversion kits require additional purchases to fully complete the process.
It isn't easy to comprehend crib hardware, but it's crucial for safety and stability. The majority of cribs are made up of rectangular blocks wedges (also called "shims") and large chocks, also known as step chocks. They're all designed to strengthen the contact points between crib and the surface that supports it.
Some chocks and shims are made from soft woods that crack slowly, which can provide audible warnings before they fail as more robust wood materials could break abruptly and with greater force. Shims and chocks made of plastic are also available and are easier to install since they do not require drilling or screwing into the surface.