Baby cribs come in different sizes, styles and shapes. What baby cribs you choose for your baby will ultimately depend on your budget, your way of life and what you find most comfortable and functional for your child.
One kind of baby crib that parents look for is the canopy baby crib, which has four posts that can hold fabric canopies above your baby. Structured more for the elegance that it provides to a room than its functionality, most parents do not opt for canopy baby cribs. Some parents, in fact, who are considering buying canopy baby cribs decide against buying as they are not comfortable placing cloths above the crib as it may fall off any time and suffocate the baby.
Still, there are some who are really attracted to the canopy baby crib's elegant lines and its "royalty" feel. True enough, having a curtain-like cloth surrounding the canopy baby crib gives a more medieval palace look reminiscent of the baby cribs used in past centuries.
Take your time in constructing the canopy baby crib and be certain that the posts are secure and sturdy. It is a good idea to test the sturdiness of the canopy baby crib that you are buying when you are still inside the store as you can compare different models and styles.
When you have already constructed the canopy baby crib that you bought, check for the sturdiness of the crib again. Parent should also examine broken, loose and missing screws and report any problem immediate to the store. Remember though that canopy cloths are often sold separately. While canopy baby cribs are just like any other baby cribs, it is still important that you be cautious and thorough with your inspection, construction and use of the baby crib.
If you feel that canopy baby cribs is not something that you want for your baby, there are other types of baby cribs available in the market. Standard baby cribs are those that have classic rectangular designs that are practical, safe and comfortable. Baby cribs with two dropsides are more expensive as they allow for more flexibility.
Being simple does not of course mean that standard baby cribs are not decorative. Some standard baby cribs in fact have sleigh styles, which have taller and curved head and footboards. Convertible baby cribs, on the other hand, are specially designed to be used from babyhood to toddlerhood.
Definitely more expensive than the standard design, convertible baby cribs can be converted from a standard baby crib into a bed that your baby can sleep into when he grows up. Most parents opt for this type of baby crib as they feel that it is quite economical and space-saving.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Consideration When Buying Canopy Baby Cribs
Modern Crib Bedding Sets
If you are looking for something to tuck in your newly born bundle of joy every night check out the modern crib bedding sets available in the market. The companies manufacturing these usually employ specialized designers who have spent years making baby goodies. As a result the baby beddings they sell are highly comfortable, baby-friendly and completely safe.
Typically, modern crib bedding sets come built in with a set of sheets (fitted, to ensure your baby’s safety), a pillow, a sham, a comforter and of course, crib bumpers. If you are lucky you might also obtain a few extra pillows, laundry, bags or diaper holders along with those regular items.
When buying your modern crib bedding set keep a few essential pointers in mind,
1. Make sure the crib you have bought is of a standard size since most beddings are designed to fit in a certain specific sized crib. So make sure to buy a bedding of the same size as the crib.
2. If you are planning on designing a separate room/nursery where the crib will stay then decorate it after you purchase your bedding. This way you will have less trouble coordinating wall paint/paper with bedding etc.
3. The fabric your baby bedding is made of is of utmost importance. Make sure it is durable and easy to wash because you sure will have to wash it frequently!
Modern crib bedding sets can prove to be a strain on your pockets, what with each company competing with the next. The only assurance is that quality usually increases with the price. So even if you are spending what seems like a fortune, do remember that you are not just purchasing bedding but peaceful nights for your little one.
While fixing your baby cribbing set for your kid make sure to keep a few basics in mind. Keep your baby’s crib free of pillows if he/she is still quite young. A number of modern crib bedding sets come with pillows but these are not advisable for young children whose heads are still soft and yet to take shape.
There are a number of reasons why you should get yourself a baby crib set. But the primary one is also highly practical. Buying a baby crib bedding set takes care of all your baby room decorating needs at once. Not only does it give you a base to help you decide on the colour of your baby’s room, it also provides you with a number of accessories to furnish the rest of the room with. So you have matching curtains, eiderdowns, sheets and a thousand other bits and pieces to make your baby’s room look absolutely gorgeous.
Baby Bedding: Crib Safety
Checking baby bedding and crib for safety
If your cradle was made of wicker make sure that there are no broken or loose bits of wood and that all the joints are tight. You will probably need to replace the mattress because that's the one thing that may not have survived very well. When fitting the drapes make sure that there are no loose threads or pieces of material that the baby might grab a hold of and shove into their mouth.
Buy new bedding for crib if you can
Most organisations that are concerned with the safety of baby furniture, such as the Juvenile Products Manufacturer’s Association in the
After all it isn't very ecologically friendly to discard perfectly good furniture and baby crib bedding. There are some checks you can do on cribs, to ensure that your baby is safe and happy. Hopefully the baby will spend a lot of time on it's own in the crib so it's worth spending some time looking it over.
Baby bedding crib safety checklist
Here are a few points to remember when checking your baby equipment for safety:
Make sure there is no chipped, loose or toxic lead paint.
To stop baby's head from getting between the bars of the crib make sure that the bars are closer than 2 and 3/8 inches apart.
The header and footer boards of the crib should be solid with no holes for baby to get into trouble with. Make sure that there are no posts to catch baby's clothes on.
Tight joints and fixings will prevent the crib from wobbling.
Make sure that the side rail raising and lowering mechanism of the crib can be managed with one hand and is fully secure when raised.
Ensure that the top of the side rail is at least 22 inches above the crib mattress.
The mattress should be firm and clean. I think that I would always buy a new mattress for a new baby. Make sure that it fits snugly in the crib.
All bedding must conform to the fire safety regulations.
Make sure that bumper strings are hidden and secure.
Bedding for cribs: Never use duvets, quilts, sheepskin or pillows for babies under 12 months old as they can overheat. Never put the crib next to cords, lamps, window blinds/curtains, or furniture that the baby could climb.
Selecting a Mattress Pad for Your Baby's Crib
Mattress pads are commonly used in cribs to protect the mattress from being damaged by liquids. The best mattress pads are highly absorbent and fit snugly against the mattress. By making sure that the mattress pad that you select for your baby's crib is both very absorbent and fits the mattress properly, you are ensuring that it will be able to keep both the mattress and the baby as dry and clean as possible.
When selecting a mattress pad, you also need to be certain that you choose one that is both washable and easily to remove. It is likely to need washing every single day, sometimes more than once a day. The fabric should be durable enough to withstand frequent washings. You may want to consider investing in more than one mattress pad to allow for those days when wetting problems are at their worst.
Making sure that the mattress pad you select fits the mattress in your baby’s crib properly is very important for reasons other than keeping the mattress and the baby clean. A proper-fitting mattress pad is an important safety consideration. If the mattress pad in your baby’s crib can shift easily from one place to another in the bed, it is a suffocation hazard.
Another important consideration when selecting a mattress pad is to find out if the one you are considering is designed to protect your baby from dust and other allergens that may build up on his or her mattress. Choose a mattress pad that is dust proof so that it will provide an additional benefit of protecting your baby from dust and other allergens. A dust proof mattress pad can play an important role in reducing common health related issues often triggered by allergens, such as asthma, bronchitis and sneezing.
Your mattress pad check list needs to include the following items: proper fit, washable, easily removable, and dust proof. There are many sources to find affordable mattress pads for your baby’s crib that meet all of the above criteria. Many baby oriented retailers, mass merchandisers, linen stores and a wide variety of online retailers are likely to have exactly what you need to protect your baby and his or her crib mattress.
Are Crib Bumper Pads Safe For Your Baby?
Crib bumper pads are a very common part of a baby bedding set and parents often use bumper pads thinking they are increasing the safety of their child's crib. However, many groups are now recommending that parents skip the crib bumper, saying the need for them has passed, and that they may in fact be causing a safety risk for your baby.
Why Do We Use Crib Bumper Pads?
Crib bumper pads became popular of crib bedding sets in older-style cribs where the slats were far enough apart that a baby's head could become trapped between the slats, posing a suffocation risk. Today, all cribs sold in the
So why do we still use the crib bumper pads? For some parents, the reason may be as simple as liking the way the bumper pad looks as part of the nursery decor. The matched crib bedding sets in stores are often cute and the package deal makes for a nice coordinated nursery. Other parents are worried about their child's arms and legs sticking through the crib sides. Health
Which Groups Have Recommended Against Bumper Pads?
Some major children's safety organizations have recently suggested that parents and child care providers should remove crib bumper pads from crib bedding sets. The groups include:
Why Do These Groups Recommend Against Crib Bumper Pads?
One reason child safety organizations recommend against baby bedding with crib bumpers is that they pose a risk of suffocation. Just like a pillow or thick blanket, crib bumper pads can restrict a baby's breathing if the bumper is up next to the baby's nose or mouth. Re-breathing of air is another concern with crib bumper pads. The bumper reduces the flow of fresh air around baby during sleep. The
As parents, we need to make well educated decisions for our baby’s safety. Although there is much controversy over using baby bedding that includes crib bumper pads, the risk is very low. As a parent myself, I have confidently used crib bumper pads with both my children and have found that they provide a feeling of security. The bumper pads allow your baby to feel safe within their own space which in turn allows for better sleep.
By H. Neufeld
Round Baby Cribs
Round baby cribs are the most modern designs in baby sleeping arrangements. These cribs, featuring special quality and a distinctive style, are precious sleeping havens. They are a unique alternative to traditional cribs. Round baby cribs are an excellent addition to any nursery, especially for a nursery where space is at a minimum.
Since a separate room for a baby nursery is not always a positive option, many parents opt for round baby cribs because they are big space savers. These cribs are very versatile: it is convenient to place them in the corner of the nursery or in the middle of the room. Another advantage of these cribs is that a newborn can have a complete view of everything in the room. An eye-catching round baby crib easily becomes the centre of attraction in a room.
The excellent design and construction of these cribs, guaranteeing total safety for the baby, has made them popular favorites. Parents have unobstructed view of the child from all sides, and they can reach and pick up the baby from any angle of the crib, without having to walk around the crib. Round baby cribs do not have corners and concussion points that could endanger the baby. Fashionable round cribs are a stunning way of showing off your little one to the world.
Parents should choose a baby crib that matches the room decor and style and that will work best for the family. Round baby cribs, on account of their superior features, are naturally a bit more expensive than standard models. Fine and durable round baby cribs are available in a variety of styles and colors, including hand-painted custom designs and traditional styles. Such cribs come with or without canopies. Round baby cribs are available in wood and metal, but are commonly found in wood.
By Alison Cole
Reasons Why You Should Buy a Convertible Baby Crib
Thinking of buying your soon to be born cute little baby a crib? He's going to need one alright. But because you are a parent, you always wanted to get the best for him. And that's especially true when it comes to the baby's furniture. A crib is the very thing he's going to use for quite a while. And it is necessary to get the best baby crib possible.
That's when the convertible baby crib will come in place. It could be the answer to every parent's woes when it comes to buying cribs. Convertible baby cribs are the perfect cribs for their ever growing baby. Although it could be priced a little higher than an ordinary crib, there are a few reason why you should still go for it. Here why:
1. It has a long lifespan. Convertible baby cribs can be used as toddler beds. That means babies can still use it until three to four years old. So that's 4 years of service to you on the minimum. Some can even be converted to full size adult beds. That means your baby can use it until he's 12 years old or older. Maybe even you can use it.
2. It is convenient to use. Most convertible baby cribs has a one hand lift and drop side system that makes it possible for you to lie the baby down easily. Its mattress can also be put up or placed down, depending on the baby's needs.
3. It is multi-functional. A lot of convertible baby cribs comes with a drawer underneath to stack in the baby supplies. Being so, you might not even have the need to buy any other furniture for your little angel.
4. It's economical. A convertible baby crib usually uses the same mattress as it transform into a twin bed or a toddler's bed to an adult bed. Because of that, you are not scheduled to buy any other bed any time in the near future. Or you are not to buy any bed ever.
5. It is durable. Because the beds are made to last until the baby's toddler's years to adulthood, you are somehow sure that it strong and steadfast. Some convertible cribs are made of steel bars. You can also get those. It is as easy to disassemble and reassemble.
6. It has added features. These cribs are not simply cribs that follows your baby to adulthood. These cribs are usually equipped with special features the baby can use. One convertible baby crib has plastic railings that also serves as baby's teething rails. Some include a safety strap and a waterproof pad.
7. It is safe. Convertible baby cribs meet the safety standards set by the law. It is necessary to comply to these rules. Also, a lot of convertible baby cribs even exceed these set standards. And that's what's caring for the baby is all about.
A baby's good night sleep is important to his growth. And an infant sleeps a lot during the day too. All the more is the need for a comfortable, safe, and economical crib. A convertible baby crib is the simple answer to all your baby's sleeping needs.
Although it is true that there are a lot of cribs in the market that are considerably priced lower and as easy to use, it cannot be compared to a convertible baby crib. It's because convertible baby cribs are made to last a lifetime.
If you want value for your money, choose to buy convertible baby cribs. Not only that you'll get what you paid for, you'll also cherish all the memories that came with that good old convertible baby crib, even after your baby goes to college!
By : Joyce Dietzel
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
What Should Know When Finding Baby Crib
When u want to find a baby crib, you should know some things. You have just learned that you are having a baby. Will the position of the mattress hold under your baby's weight? It is imperative that this be tested before you put your baby in the crib. If it doesn't it could cause serious injury to your baby or worse.
If you place the crib near a window and you have Venetian blinds, either shorten the cords or anchor them somewhere that your baby can't reach and get a hold of them. If it all possible avoid placing the crib near the window. As your baby grows into a toddler and s/he attempts to climb out of the crib; s/he could possibly fall which could cause serious injury to your baby.
Blankets and your baby are not necessarily a good mix. If you absolutely have to have a blanket on the baby, tuck it tightly around and under the foot of the mattress with your baby's feet touching the footboard.
Bumper pads are a great concept but unless they are secured properly, there is a risk of your baby slipping between the mattress and the bumpers and possibly suffocating.
If your crib is second hand no matter whether you had for a previous child or you got it from someone else check out the mattress carefully. Make sure too that the mattress properly fits in the crib. The mattress should fit snugly in the crib. Now the sheets you use in your baby's crib should also fit properly and not slip and slide. Sheet anchors are available that hook on the sheet under the mattress and keep it in place.
The position of the mattress is imperative for your child's safety. Most parents put the mattress at the highest position when the baby first comes home because it is so much easier to change him in that position. As your baby becomes more active you will want to lower the mattress accordingly. Once your baby is able to pull up to a standing position put the mattress in the lowest possible position and to be sure your baby is safe, measure the distance between the top of the side bar and the mattress. If your child's head is over the side bar or they climb out of the crib, it maybe time to move your child to a regular bed. Some cribs are convertible into beds tat will grow with your child.
The crib itself should be looked over for things that might put your baby at risk. The simpler the design of the crib the safer your child may be.
Buying a Crib for Your Baby
Parenthood is a beautiful and stressful challenge, and one of the first things that new parents have to consider is finding a baby crib suitable for their little one. Crib searching doesn't have to be a burdensome task; in fact it can be one of the more fruitful events to prepare for before the baby comes along.
When shopping for your baby crib, be sure to consider the following basics:
Keep an eye out for a crib that has a high head and footboard; this ensures your child will have a peaceful night's rest since it reduces noise and distractions. A higher headboard also makes it convenient to clip a mobile to the side. Most cribs usually come with a drop down gate for you to pick baby up and put him back down for naps, but make sure that all of the proper hardware is included in the packaging. If the crib you purchase happens to have wheels, be sure to take extra care that the casters lock to ensure baby's safety.
If you want to get your money's worth in purchasing a baby crib, consider looking for one that can easily turn into a toddler bed. Your baby will outgrow his crib in a short amount of time and if the crib can turn into a toddler bed, you can wait a few more years before investing in a twin-sized bed for your child. With a toddler bed, your child will understand that transitioning to a big kid bed isn't such a scary thing. Most toddler beds can fit the same crib mattress, which makes it even more convenient for both you and baby.
Baby cribs are a necessity for every baby and parent. After awhile, your little tot won't be able to sleep and fit properly in a bassinette; with a crib, your baby will be able to roll around once he's gained enough mobility. With the proper crib, your experience as a parent will grow alongside your baby.
By Vicki Duong
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
To Find The Right Crib For Your Baby
Before you go looking at baby cribs you should determine your budget. The crib must meet government standards. Safety concerns include the mattress. There should be no missing or loose slats. If there are corner posts they should be no more than a sixteenth of an inch above the foot or head bar.
Drop sides on a crib is very convenient and is probably the most used feature on any crib. Fixed sides do not have the drop down feature and is great for tall people or those who will only be occasionally using the crib.
Most parents opt for a single drop down sided crib that allows them to easily lift baby out of the crib and to place him in the crib. This is especially convenient if your crib is placed against the wall. Double drop down sided cribs are a popular option among those parents who have room to place the crib so it's not against the wall. There is the knee push lever and all you have to do is lean your knee against the crib side and it will drop. This is convenient if you have your baby in your arms.
The knee push sides may be the most common type available. Another common type is the foot bar. You balance on one foot and push the bar down with the other to lower the side. There is the double trigger drop mechanism. There are levers on both ends of the crib and you need both hands free to use them. You squeeze the triggers and then the side will drop. The wheels on a crib are a great asset because it makes the crib easier to move to clean under or retrieve dropped toys as well as changing bedding. Make sure the casters are strong and turn easily. If you don't think you will need them you can put them aside in case you change your mind.
There are adjustable mattress heights available on all cribs with the exception of the cheapest models of cribs. The three position option is available and is the wisest choice. Two height position are acceptable. Single height mattress is not a safe choice because as your child grows the mattress should be lowered to prevent him from climbing out of the crib or toppling out of the crib.
You should look at the mattress supports as well. Some have vinyl straps that could wear out and break others have metal bar supports which is a better option. The best option however is a metal spring system where the entire mattress is supported and is the most durable of the three options.
Baby Crib’s Safety
Baby cribs may keep your baby safe from falling off during sleep but do you know that cribs, when badly constructed and improperly used can be a health and life hazard to your child?
No matter how expensive the baby crib is or how many safety tests it passed, parents should not be too sure as accidents can happen and often because of overconfidence and neglect.
Remember that your baby's body is fragile and not being used to their environment, they are naturally curious about everything and anything. Things that you would not even think of being a dangerous part of the baby
crib can be dangerous to them.
Here are some tips that can help keep your child safe in a baby crib and remember that one mistake can mean your his life.
Be instruction-wise
Never believe that for one-minute you know everything about baby cribs just because you've used one before. , it is still imperative that you read the manual and instruction
guide. In addition to providing the step-by-step guide on how to set-up the baby crib from scratch, the manual will also contain some tips on how to properly care for your crib and to avoid accidents while using it.
Be inspection-wise
When buying a baby crib or when you are about to use one, make sure that everything is in place and there are no broken or bent parts. Sharp edges, missing joints and small removable parts in baby cribs can also be dangerous as they can be choking hazards.
Side edges and protrusions can also become strangulation hazards as blankets, necklaces and shirts can be caught. Avoid buying cribs that have these features. Also, never put necklaces or anything around your baby's neck.
Go with non-toxicBaby crib finish should be made with non-toxic materials that are recommended for young children. As babies' body systems, especially the immune systems are still developing, it is important that they be protected from chemicals and toxins in the environment. When buying baby cribs, make sure that you ask the salesperson for ones built using non-toxic materials.
Close the dropsides
While the dropside mechanism in baby cribs can be mightily convenient, it can also spell disaster if you are not cautious in using it. Be sure that when you do put your baby inside the crib, you have raised the drop side and have locked it.
Just put the basics
Remember that the more things inside the baby crib, the greater the possibility of accident to your baby, as anything can be a potential choking and strangulation hazard. To avoid this, keep the baby crib to a bare minimum, only placing things that are absolutely necessary like a pillow and a blanket. Toys inside the crib is okay if your baby is awake and playing but always remember to remove them when he is about to be put into bed.
Parents are also advised to avoid placing dangling toys on the side of the
crib as loose straps may capture your baby and strangle him.
The Baby Crib: Your Child's First Bed
It is up to you as parents whether you want a baby crib to be your child’s first bed or not. Some parents are proponents of “co-sleeping,” in which a baby sleeps in bed with the parents, sometimes up to two or more years. Other parents choose a baby crib for their child to sleep in, especially if their baby is an active sleeper or makes lots of noise at night. Remember, it is up to you--don’t let anyone make you feel bad about your decision.
Baby Crib Safety
Baby cribs are safe places to sleep when parents follow some important rules. The slats of the crib must be close together to prevent your baby from getting his or her head, hands, or legs trapped. A crib mattress should fit very snugly in the crib, with no more than ½ of space on each side. This helps prevent a baby from rolling down in the cracks between the mattress and the crib.
It is important, especially during the first four months, to avoid putting your baby to sleep on his stomach or side in the crib. There has been a decrease in “Sudden Infant Death Syndrome” since the common practice has been to put babies on their backs to sleep. Also, keeping overly fluffy objects out of your baby’s crib is a good idea. You never know when your baby might roll into such an item and accidentally smother, unable to get the object away from her face.
Popular Styles of Baby Cribs
The traditional wooden crib is the most popular. However, it varies widely in style as well as price. A standard, bare-bones crib that meets safety standards might only set you back $100, while the new “convertible” cribs that turn into a bed later on can go for $400-$800, depending on the model. If you want to go with something extremely impractical but kind of unique, you could purchase a round crib (which, of course, requires a special round crib mattress and limited choices of bedding that are all expensive)
Whatever kind of crib you get, make sure it is sturdy and safe. When you put your baby in a crib, you are putting your trust in that crib also.
By Allan Wilson
