How to Pick a Crib for Your Baby

This is an exciting time for you! You have so many ideas for your baby's nursery that you don't know where to begin but you would like to incorporate as many of them as you can. As new parents, you want to do everything "right" and that includes designing the perfect first room for your newborn. Let's take it one step at a time. Not only is it the focal point of the room, you will want to pick a crib for your baby that will keep your child safe and sound.

Quality Construction: Since your baby will be sleeping in it for two to three years, it must be durable and strong. The crib you select should be well-made, sit level on the floor without wobbling or tipping and edges and corners should be smooth. Hardware such as locking mechanisms, etc. should be user-friendly and hidden from baby. For safety's sake, the distance between each slat must not be any wider than 2.38 inches. This will prevent your child from getting stuck in between.

Comfortable: You're not going to put your child into a bare crib; it's the mattress that makes it comfy for your baby. Crib mattresses fall into two major categories, foam and innerspring. Neither one is more or less beneficial than the other; it is simply a matter of personal preference. Studies have shown that if the parents sleep on an innerspring mattress, they will probably choose the same for their child; the same of course applies to those who prefer to sleep on a foam mattress. Trusted manufacturers of baby nursery furniture and accessories like Da Vinci, Dream On Me and LA Baby offer both foam and innerspring baby crib mattresses.

Affordable: There are so many different types of cribs available in a range of different prices. Select one that you can afford: many high-end cribs have economical versions that are just as charming and appealing. Definitely make a budget for each piece of baby furniture you will need.

- E. L.