Crib Sets - Everything You Need For Your Newborn to Sleep Soundly From Day One
The best crib sets include everything you need for your newborn to sleep soundly from the first day. They're machine washable, pre-shrunk and designed to be able to sit tightly around the mattress without bunching--a significant safety risk for babies.
One parent tester stated that she had used it for two babies, and then passed it on to a friend. This makes it a smart buy. Its sleek design makes it an ideal choice for smaller nursery designs.
Bedding
When it concerns crib bedding, there are plenty of options. But choosing the right sheet is more than just selecting a cute pattern that will be in line with your preferences. You also want something that fits tightly and doesn't get clumped into places that could be a suffocation hazard for your baby. It is important to choose a soft and durable material to withstand diaper blowouts, spills and other messes for months without wearing out.
This set from Avocado is one of our favorite. It comes with two sheets made with 100% certified organic GOTS cotton. The textiles are also MADE SAFE certified, which is an independent third-party certification that guarantees that the products of the company meet rigorous standards for quality and safety. The sheets are pre-shrunk so that they don't shrink and stretch after washing. They also fit on a standard crib bed (27 1 4 inches wide by 51 5/8 inches long). They're also machine-washable for the inevitable mess that your little child is bound to make.
Another great option for newborns and toddlers is crib mattress pads which provides an additional layer of comfort while also protecting the mattress from spills and stains. Select a mattress cover that is less than one-inch thick to let your child breathe. And steer clear of things that are too soft or includes long bows, ribbons and other adornments that could be removed 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. best crib newborn can be converted to a toddler bed, and occasionally even a full-size or daybed. Some cribs come with conversion kits, whereas 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 has one of the highest mattress heights (for parents who worry about reaching a low mattress). We love that it's Greenguard Gold certified, meaning it meets stringent environmental standards for reduced off-gassing.
Mattress
When it comes to crib mattresses, firmness and sizing are important. The AAP recommends a firm mattress that is comfortable and doesn't leave an indentation on the surface when you place a sheet over it. The mattress should be the right size for the crib and should remain in place even after your child has grown out of it.
It is also important to determine if the mattress contains chemicals that could harm your child. Look for a mattress free of volatile organic compound (VOCs) which release an unpleasant chemical odor. A good indicator is a CertiPUR US certificate which confirms that the mattress's foam is made without ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP and TCEP flame retardants mercury, lead, and other heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates, which are regulated by Consumer Product Safety Commission, and volatile organic compounds.
A few other things to think about include how much the mattress carries and whether it's waterproof or not. A surface that is waterproof or wipeable is ideal for cleaning, since you'll be changing sheets at night. The Naturepedic Organic Cotton Classic 150 Seamless 2Stage is the most heavy product we tested, weighing around 20 lbs. This may be a major issue for some parents.
Another important thing to consider is whether the mattress is dual-sided. Some have a firm infant side and a soft toddler side. Pediatricians suggest flipping the mattress after your child reaches the height of their normal growth. This is typically at around 12 months.
We weighed the mattresses and observed how easily they folded to cover the sides of the crib with sheets. We also put an 8-pound tin, slightly heavier than a newborn, on each one to observe how the mattress reacted. The top mattresses did not sink, meaning they offer enough support to keep your child from falling or being suffocated in bed. The mattresses we tested had a cover that was machine-washable and is water-proof. This makes cleaning and maintaining them easier.
Crib Rails
A crib would not be complete without the right set of rails fixed. While some cribs for babies include a set of baby rails along with the crib and others sell them separately. If you decide to purchase them separately, make sure they meet all safety standards. They should, for instance have no missing or loose screws, brackets, and other hardware. They should be strong enough to support your child's weight without being too thin. They should also be able to secure themselves to ensure that they are not removed from your child.
The crib rails you choose should not only be sturdy They should also fit comfortably within the crib frame. This will prevent the mattress from being too flimsy, which can be dangerous for your baby. Make sure you measure the crib frame when buying the crib rail. There are a few slight variations in the sizes of the crib. The space should ideally not be larger than three fingers.
Also, make sure that the crib rails don't include any cutouts with decorative designs or other ornaments. They could pose the risk of suffocation. Avoid placing quilts, pillows, blankets and sheepskins inside the crib. They can result in a dangerous accumulation of carbon dioxide increasing your baby's SIDS risk. If you're looking to add a soft sleeping surface in the crib, try a crib pad and cover combination. They consist of mattress pads with waterproof lining and an adjustable "skirt" that wraps over the mattress, much like an oversized sheet.
In the end, you'll need to purchase the appropriate crib rail guards. They are designed to cushion the head of your child if it hits the crib railings while you feed him or her or cradling them next to the bed. They also help to prevent teeth marks and drool discoloration on the crib's fixed railings.
Once your infant outgrows the crib, you'll need a toddler guard rail to keep your child safely in their bed until they're ready to move on to a big kid bed. Sweetpea Baby has a convertible crib toddler guard rail that can be used with all cribs that are standard. It's easy to set up and is compliant with the CPSC's safety standards.
Crib Hardware
Some aspects of crib design are purely aesthetic or are subject to personal preference, but others--such as the style of slats, or whether the crib converts into an infant bed--can have a major impact on the ease of use and the length of time the crib will last. The most durable cribs are made from solid wood, and meet multiple safety regulations, and can be easily adjusted to various mattress heights. Some have distinct features that make them more efficient like the Quick Zip Crib Sheet, which allows you to swap the sheets without removing the entire mattress from the crib.
In general, you should avoid cribs with ornamental cut-outs, or other decorations which could get caught on clothes or create a choking risk for children. Examine the crib's hardware for loose bolts and other items that can catch on objects or clothing.
The best crib sets come with easy-to-follow instructions and all necessary components including hardware. The majority of modern cribs take half an hour or less to put together, and a majority include all the equipment you'll need.
It is also possible to think about a convertible crib that can transform into a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. This is a good choice for families that plan to use the crib for many years or have a limited space. It's important to note that certain crib conversion kits require a second purchase to fully complete the process.
It isn't easy to comprehend crib hardware, but it's essential to ensure safety and stability. The majority of cribs have the rectangular blocks as well as wedges (also known as "shims"), and huge chocks, also known as step chocks, all of which are designed to snug up contact points between the crib and the supported surface.
Some shims and chocks may be made of soft woods that crack slowly. This could trigger an audible warning before they fail. However, harder woods may break more suddenly and with greater force. The shims and chocks are made of plastic and are also available for purchase. They are easier to install, as they do not require drilling into the surface.