No Sweat Baby Gear

Choosing Between Cradle and Crib?

Choosing between cradle and crib when caring for the baby has a few more complexities than what we have previously discussed. Let’s take a more in depth look.

Parents have a variety of choices when it comes to baby supplies. These are being chosen based on functionality and comfort. When it comes to the baby’s first bed, cradle and crib are the top 2 choices. These are specifically designed to care for the newborns by making sure they will sleep sound without the danger of falling off. Parents are given an option to buy crib or cradle or both to provide their babies the greatest comfort possible. However, with advanced technology, manufacturers have come up with dual functionality furniture. With some effort you can find a cradle that converts to a crib as the baby grows. Some even convert further into a bed.

Spending a huge amount of money for 2 different pieces of furniture is no longer necessary. This can save parents money and space in their room or nursery. These “rocking-cribs” are usually made from solid hardwood for maximum security, waterproof pad, and position pins that are used to secure the furniture in a stationary position.

Furniture companies are introducing new designs for rocking-cribs every year by offering a variety of choices that are perfect for any themed nursery or home. There are some that can be converted not only to cradle and crib but also to full sized toddler beds. Cost ranges from $300-$900 which is considered relatively inexpensive for getting a piece of furniture that can serve multiple purposes.

To protect the baby, make sure that the crib meets the safety standards set forth by the federal government in 1973. This simply states that a manufacturer should produce cribs with 2 3/8 inche slats to protect the baby’s head from slipping through. The drop side should be a minimum of 26 inches and 9 inches from the mattress.

To keep infants from falling, get a crib model that has good height adjustment. This can be set on the highest point that is perfect for newborns and can be gradually lowered as the baby learns to stand and walk. The crib’s interior should measure 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. Make sure to purchase mattress or bedding that is slightly smaller on the mentioned sizes.

When buying antique cribs, make sure it was manufactured after 1973. This will guarantee that it meets the safety standards that can greatly protect the babies from accidents.

Another reason for avoiding an antique crib is the lead paint risk. Babies naturally choose to chew on anything within site and that includes the crib. If you plan on using an antique or used crib, make certain that you prepare and refinish the surface properly eliminating any possibility that the furniture may still have any traces of lead paint.
Also, if you plan on refinishing the furniture yourself, make certain that you wear the appropriate breathing apparatus. Better yet, take the furniture pieces to a reputable furniture refinisher who is prepared for all contingencies.

In choosing the bedding, get an innerspring mattress or firm foam. Make sure it is not too soft or too dense for the baby to sleep on. Also, protect the babies from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome by getting breathable mattresses that have ventilation holes. It is important not to use comforters over the bedding to avoid suffocation. To reduce the risk of allergies or asthma, get hypoallergenic mattresses that are equally comfortable. In addition, do not forget to keep the crib and the mattress clean at all times.

Here are some tips in keeping the crib or cradle a safe place for your baby:

1. Keep the crib/cradle bedding splinter free and smooth.

2. Keep the crib hazardous-free by removing stuffed toys, pillows, and quilts.

3. Regularly check the crib for loose screws that can pose a danger to infants.

4. Keep the baby crib away from electrical plugs, windows, extension cords, and curtains.

Choosing the furniture for babies is critical toward avoiding accidents that may seriously injure the little ones. In 1978, one furniture manufacturing company was sued for selling cribs that were posing potential danger to babies. Knowing how to avoid these kinds of furniture can take the infant’s safety on a higher level. Parents should be well informed on how to properly choose baby furniture and accessories to make sure their babies will be healthier and more secure.

Cradles and cribs are the first beds of most babies in United States. Today, defining their similarities and advantages is becoming difficult because their functionalities are being combined to offer parents furniture that will meet their needs in finding a safe and comfortable place for their babies into the future.

About the Author

When parents decide to shop for baby furniture, it is recommended to preview as many cribs and cradles as possible to determine their durability and comfort level. Besides, your baby deserves only the best! If you would like more information on caring for your newborn, then visit the authors site here http://caringforyournewborn.myreferenceguide.com

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