Baby cribs that are well designed and comfortable allow babies to sleep deeply and longer. Well rested children are happier and achieve their development potential faster than if they are sleep deprived and tired from trying to sleep in an inadequate baby crib. Baby cribs come in so many different styles, and finding the right crib to fit your lifestyle or nursery theme can be overwhelming. From sizes and shapes to wood or metal, the baby’s crib is the focal point of the nursery.

Your First Priority - Baby Crib Safety!

The first thing on your mind is the safety aspect. Crib manufacturers are held to industry standards that keep baby safe. The crib slats should be no more that 2 3/8 inches apart to keep baby from getting any parts of the body stuck in between the slats, which could cause injury or strangulation. The side bar of the crib must be 26 inches above the mattress when the mattress is at its lowest position. This will keep baby from climbing out of the crib or falling over the side bar. If the baby is able to stand and her head is over an inch above the side bar, she needs to be moved to a bed. The side bar usually needs two distinct actions that will disengage the side bar for release to prevent baby from accidentally releasing the side bar.

The crib mattress should fit snugly into the crib frame. This will keep baby from slipping in between the mattress and the crib, which can cause serious injury. Crib mattresses should be firm so baby cannot sink into it and suffocate. If the crib is painted, be sure the paint is lead free to prevent lead poisoning if baby ingests the paint. The teething rails should be replaced if they shows signs of cracks or other wear. Never place the crib next to a window, or where window treatments are within baby’s reach.

Selecting A Crib!

With the baby proofing done and the safety issues addressed, there is still the matter of what type of crib is best for you. Do you go for a designer brand? Do you want a crib that converts to a toddler bed? Do you want a traditional rectangle crib or a round or oval shape? All are available. As with everything else that comes with having children, you need to do your homework to make the best choice for you and your baby. There are lot of useful and entertaining crib and nursery accessories that you can select from.

What About A Baby Cradle, Bassinet Or Basket?

Maybe you would like to keep your baby in a cradle, bassinet or playard for the first few months. Baby cradles are usually made of wood and are able to rock or glide back and forth. They are portable, but not recommended for babies once they are able to roll over or sit up. Baby bassinets are also normally made from wood, or alternatively wicker, and they have canopies on one end. Most bassinets are on wheels for convenience but are not recommended for babies who are mobile. Baby baskets are inexpensive and take up little space. Additionally, they are very easy to transport.

Cribs are stationary enclosures that can transition with the baby as he or she grows and becomes mobile while cradles and bassinets are used only during the first year or so of life. The choice between the three comes down to what you want short term and long term for you, your baby and your nursery. Once the choice has been made, the fun can really begin. The best part about having a nursery is to be able to let your imagination take over to make the baby’s room a magical place. The feelings that you have with the anticipation of bringing home your baby can manifest itself into the space. From the paint on the walls to crib mobiles that play your favorite lullabies, every addition to the nursery is filled with memories and love that will set the tone for the special relationship that will be formed in that room.

Browse Our Recommendations!

A baby with a pleasant, safe and comfortable sleeping environment will be well rested and happy. This, of course, makes mom and dad’s parenting job easier as well. Our recommendations for baby cribs, baby cradles, baby bassinets and other nursery products are below. Each of our featured e-tailers have been selected because of their commitment to quality baby merchandise, the user-friendliness of their website and ethical treatment of their customers. Browse around and pick the baby crib or other items that best suit your budget and requirements.

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