Cribs, features to consider - crib mattress, convertible cribs, drop sides, single drop side crib, double drop side crib, crib rail, crib slat, crib safety[SIZE=-1]Cribs features to consider Convertibility. Consider buying a crib that converts to a toddler bed only if you don't plan to have more children soon. Otherwise, you'll need the crib for your next baby and never get the chance to convert it. Consider buying a convertible crib if you don't mind ending up with a toddler bed that's very crib-like. Many convertible cribs can be switched to a "big girl" or "big boy" bed simply by removing one drop side; the basic look of the crib remains. On the other hand, some parents report that the change from a crib to a toddler bed is so small that toddlers have an easier time making the transition. Finally, keep in mind that some convertible beds require parts that typically aren't included in the original purchase, such as bed rails, stabilizing rails, or support rails (for converting to a full-size bed). Bottom drawer. Some models include a drawer or two under the mattress support structure. Under-crib drawers usually are not attached to the crib frame. Some are freestanding and roll out from under the crib on casters. Some cribs have a set of drawers attached to the short end of the unit. Before buying, pull any drawer all the way out to inspect its construction. You may find that it has a thin, cardboard-like bottom that could bow and give way when loaded with linens or clothing. A drawer bottom made of a harder material, such as fiberboard, is more likely to hold up. Drop sides. The newest cribs with drop sides have relatively quiet releases that require you to lift the rail while you push the release with your leg. The older design requires you to lift the side while pressing a metal lever or tab under the railing with your foot. The foot maneuver is awkward because you have to stand on one leg to do it. Metal components often rattle and squeak. A third, though rare, type of release mechanism has latches at each end of the top rail that must be pulled out at the same time. Federal regulations require that lowering mechanisms be designed to prevent accidental release by a baby or sibling. Finish. Cribs with dark wood finishes are available, although cribs in lighter stains such as natural wood, oaks, and maples tend to be more popular. White, however, remains the most common crib color. Other painted colors include off-whites, washed whites (revealing the wood's grain), and pastel green, blue, pink, or yellow. A little roughness in the finish isn't a problem as long as there are no serious defects such as splintering or peeling paint. Mattress height. All full-size cribs have at least two mattress height positions; more expensive models have three or four. To prevent your baby from falling out of the crib, adjust the mattress support to its lowest height as soon as she can sit or pull up, usually between 6 and 8 months of age. Many models don't require tools for adjusting mattress height; in some models, screws or bolts are hard to reach. Mattress supports. Most mattress supports consist of a metal frame with springs. In some cribs, the mattress support is a one-piece board; in others, it's a grid with wood slats. The mattress supports are adjustable so the mattress can be raised or lowered, depending on the size of the child. Mattress supports need to be held securely in place so they aren't dislodged when you're changing a crib sheet or when another child or large pet pushes up from underneath. Sides and railings. Crib sides are constructed by fitting bars (or spindles or slats) into holes in the top and bottom rails, then securing each bar with glue and one or two metal brads. The small holes made by the brads are usually filled and covered with a finish so they're invisible. A mandatory safety standard requires that crib slats be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, so slat spacing shouldn't be an issue. Corner posts or finials should be either less than 1/16 of an inch or more than 16 inches high, to avoid the possibility of a child's clothing catching on it. Structural integrity. Sturdiness is a sign of construction quality. One or more stabilizer bars?metal rods fastened to both end boards beneath the crib?help make the frame more rigid. Teething rails. These are smooth, plastic coverings for the top of the side rails to protect the crib and a gnawing baby's gums. The voluntary industry standard says teething rails should be built to stay in place and not crack or break. Wheels/casters. Plastic or metal crib wheels can be standard rollers or round, multidirectional, ball-shape casters that swivel and make it easier to haul a crib from one room to another. Not all cribs come with them, which isn't an issue if your crib won't be venturing out of the nursery. If your baby's crib will be on bare wood or tile floors and you choose a crib with wheels, make sure they lock to prevent the crib from "walking" across the room?and the other children from taking baby on a joy ride when your back is turned.[/SIZE] [SIZE=-1]Subscribe now![/SIZE]
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