Crib Sets - Everything You Need For Your Newborn to Sleep Soundly From Day One
The most ideal crib sets have everything you require for your baby to rest comfortably from day one. They're machine washable, pre-shrunk and designed to fit tightly around the mattress without bunching--a serious safety risk for infants.
One parent tester stated that she had used hers for two babies, and then passed it on to a friend. This makes it a wise purchase. Its sleek design makes it an excellent choice for minimalist nurseries.
Bedding
When it concerns crib bedding, there are a lot of options. It's not just about choosing the right pattern that fits your aesthetic. It is also important to ensure that the bedding is tightly fitted and doesn't bunch up in areas that could create an choking risk to your child. It should also be soft to the touch and durable enough to endure months of blowouts in diapers and spit-up spills without wearing out too fast.
One of our favorites is this set from Avocado It comes with two sheets made of 100% organic cotton that is certified by GOTS and MADE SAFE-certified. It's an independent third-party verification that guarantees Avocado's products meet stringent standards for safety and quality. They're pre-shrunk, which means they won'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. They're also machine-washable for the inevitable mess your baby is bound to create.
Another great option for newborns and toddlers is crib mattress pads which provides an additional layer of comfort and protects the mattress from spills and stains. Select a mattress cover that is less than one inch thick to allow your child to breathe. Avoid anything too fluffy or with long ribbons, bows, and other adornments. They can fall off and create the risk of strangulation.
If you're planning to keep your baby in a crib for a long time, think about buying a convertible crib. These beds can be transformed into a toddler bed, and occasionally even a full-size or daybed. Some cribs include the conversion kits, while others require a purchase.
A few of our most-loved cribs are this Dream On Me Ashton 5-in-1 sleigh-style crib, which is made of solid wood and features one of the taller mattress heights (for parents who are concerned about reaching down to a mattress that's low). We love that it's Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it meets stringent environmental standards to reduce off-gassing.
Mattress
Firmness and size are important when it comes to crib mattress. The AAP recommends a mattress that is firm, is comfortable and does not leave an impression when you lay a sheet on it. The mattress should also be the proper size for the crib, and it should stay in place even after your child gets out of it.
In addition, you'll want to be aware of whether the mattress is made 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 often emit an unpleasant chemical smell. CertiPUR US certification is a good indicator. It is a certifiable sign that the foam in the mattress is free of ozone depleters as well as other harmful chemicals.
A few other things to think about include how much weight the mattress carries and whether it's waterproof or not. A surface that is waterproof or wipeable is more suitable for cleaning since you'll be changing sheets every night. The Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2-Stage is the heaviest of the bunch we tested at 20lbs, which may be a turnoff for certain parents.
A dual-sided mattress may have one side that is firm for infants and a soft side for toddlers. Pediatricians recommend flipping the mattress when your child is at the peak of their normal growth, which is usually at around 12 months.
We 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 infant, on each mattress to see how it reacted. The best mattresses did not sink, meaning they have enough support to keep your child from falling or suffocating in bed. Some of the mattresses we tried have a removable, machine-washable cover that is waterproof and zips closed. This makes cleaning and maintaining them even easier.
Crib Rails
A crib can't be complete without the right set of rails that are fixed. Some baby furniture companies offer baby rails with the crib. Others offer them separately. If you decide to buy them separately, search for rails that meet the safety requirements. They must, for instance, be free of loose or missing screws, brackets, or other hardware. They must also be able to support the weight of your child without being too flimsy. They should also be able be secured in a secure way to ensure that they are not removed from your child.
The crib rails need to not only be strong but also fit comfortably within the frame of the crib. This will keep the mattress from becoming too fragile and potentially risky for your child. When you purchase a crib rail, be sure to measure the inside of the frame, because there are slight differences in crib sizes. Ideally, the space should not be more than three fingers wide.
Also, make sure that the crib rails don't contain any cutouts that are decorative or other embellishments. These can pose the risk of suffocation. It is also recommended to avoid putting pillows, blankets, quilts and sheepskins on the crib, because they can cause a dangerous carbon dioxide build-up and increase the risk of SIDS. Consider a crib pad and cover if you want a soft sleeping surface for your baby. They consist of a mattress pad with a waterproof lining and a fitted "skirt" that stretches around the mattress like an fitted sheet.
It is also important to make sure you have the correct crib rail guards. They are specifically designed to cushion your baby's head when it happens to hit the crib railings while feeding or cradling him or her on the bed. They can also prevent the formation of marks from teeth and drool on the crib's side railings that are fixed.
When your child is no longer in the crib, you'll require a toddler guard rail to keep your child safe in their bed until they're ready for a big kid bed. Sweetpea Baby has a convertible crib toddler guard rail that can be used with most standard cribs. It is simple to install and complies with CPSC safety standards.
why not try these out are only aesthetic and are based on individual preference, while others -- such as the style of the slats on the crib or whether it can be converted into a toddler bed -- can have a significant impact on the ease of use of the crib as well as its durability. The best cribs have solid wood construction, meet various safety standards, and are easily adaptable to various mattress heights. Some cribs come with unique features that make them more effective like the Quick Zip Crib Sheet, which allows you to change the sheets without taking 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 children. Check the crib hardware for loose bolts and other components that could get caught on clothing or other objects.
The best crib sets come with easy-to-follow directions and all the necessary components, including hardware. Modern cribs typically take half-hour or less to put together, and a lot include all the tools you'll require.
Look into a convertible crib that can be converted into a toddler bed, daybed or full-size mattress. This is a great option for families who intend to use the crib for many years or have a limited space. It's important to note that some crib conversion kits require additional items to fully complete the process.
Crib hardware can be difficult to comprehend, but it's essential to ensure safety and stability. Most cribs have a system of rectangular blocks, wedges (also known as "shims") and massive chocks referred to as step chocks. They are all designed to tighten up contact points between the crib and the surface that supports it.
Some shims or chocks could be made from soft woods, which crack slowly. This can give an audible warning before they fail. However, harder woods might break more quickly and with greater force. Plastic shims or chocks are also available for purchase. They are simpler to install since they don't require drilling into the surface.