All About Baby Cribs and Bedding
Choosing a baby crib and bedding are the most important decorating decisions for your nursery. Cribs come in many choices of styles, materials and finishes. You may be tempted to use an heirloom or antique crib, but this is not recommended due to safety concerns (some older cribs may not meet current safety standards). It is not recommended that you purchase any used crib unless it has the original manufacturer's labels affixed. Then you should check with the manufacturer to ensure that the crib meets current standards. You should also carefully inspect the crib before use.
A popular trend in cribs is the convertible crib, which converts to a toddler bed, twin bed or even larger. Before you make the investment, make sure you check the prices on the conversion kits. It is often less expensive to buy a good quality bed than to pay for the higher priced crib plus the kits.
There are many crib styles to choose from, from the traditional Jenny Lind style to the unique round crib. You should decide on your budget before you begin shopping, since you can get easily carried away by all the precious cribs in the store! Remember that even the most inexpensive crib can be dressed up with adorable bedding, and will provide your little one with a comfortable and safe place to sleep.
Once you have selected your crib, you can move on to the rainbow of crib bedding available. Blue, pink or neutral, ribbons and bows or simple, duckies or teddies, primary or pastels, you will be dazzled by the choices available. Most crib sets include sheets, a bumper pad and other accessories. Be aware that pediatricians recommend that infants not sleep with fluffy comforters or pillows due to suffocation danger, so you may want to save some money by purchasing only the basics. (Steel yourself, though - it's hard to turn down all those adorable little accessories!) |