A comfortable and safe place, or how to choose a crib for a newborn? Which crib is best for a newborn: reasonable purchases What is a crib for a newborn.

As a rule, a crib is purchased for a newborn shortly before his birth. At the same time, many young parents pay attention mainly to her appearance. But, seduced by bright colors, many pay fabulous sums, without even asking what the miracle that conquered them was made of.

Choosing a crib, you cannot be guided by one "beauty". There are many important points to take into account.

A children's room without furniture is like a house without a roof. A bed, a chest of drawers, a locker, a changing table - these are the main items that should be in the room. As the baby grows and matures, his furniture wealth will also grow. In the meantime, the crib is almost his only haven. It is desirable that it meets all the needs of the child and fits into the interior of the child's room.

The crib must "breathe"

You come to a children's store - your eyes run up: there are so many things that sometimes you forget why you came. There are many varieties of cribs: there are cradles for babies, and cribs - "houses" - with a canopy in the form of a roof, and beds in the "European standard" style - painted white, and even pretending to the Gothic style, there are also simpler products. Don't buy anything under the influence of the first emotions.

As soon as the first excitement has subsided, estimate your financial capabilities and proceed to a thorough examination. Sellers often praise more expensive goods. But price is not an indicator of quality. First of all, pay attention to the material from which the crib is made. Natural wood was considered the best at all times.

Wood is an environmentally friendly material, it itself "breathes" and allows others to "breathe". It is easy to clean, making it easy to keep the bed clean.

Do not think that you will be able to determine at a glance what this or that bed is made of. You may well mistake high-impact polystyrene or plastic for wood. There is nothing wrong with the fact that some parts are not wooden, it is important that there are not too many of them and this does not prevent the baby's little body from "breathing". Therefore, having chosen the cradle, be sure to ask the seller for a hygiene certificate - it should indicate what material the product is made of, as well as how harmless it is.

Some people think that now only abroad are beds made from natural materials. This is not so - the domestic industry produces a lot of wooden cribs.

Not all that cradle that rocks

A comfortable and spacious bed is ideal. In addition, it must have two levels. The height of the crib does not really matter for a newborn. While it is better that the bed is not very deep, then it is much easier to put the baby down without waking her up. When the child grows up and begins to get up, the depth of the bed is already important so that the little man, learning the world, cannot fall out of it. The distance from the top rail of the railing to the mattress in its lowest position should be at least 66 cm.For some cribs, the top bar can be removed from one side, and the crib becomes 10 centimeters lower.

This is very convenient for a mother who rocked the baby in her arms. The baby is easier to put down without causing any inconvenience. But then the bar should be returned to its place so that the curious child does not fall.

The bed can also be on wheels, which is very convenient for moving it to other rooms. Some models are made as rocking chairs. Your baby will surely like such a bed, he can lie for a while and enjoy this process, and then fall asleep faster.

There are cots that extend in width and length. It is good if two or more rods are removed from the bed. Then the grown-up child can easily get out of it and get back, without climbing over the top and without fear of falling. There is also such an option when the bed is combined with a changing table.

There are models where lower drawers for bed, clothes or toys are provided. This slightly increases the cost of the crib, but makes it more comfortable, as it saves you the trouble of buying an extra wardrobe or chest of drawers. Everything you need is at hand.

Some parents like the cradle basket. True, it is suitable for children only up to one year old and is convenient in that it has carrying handles, removable, machine washable covers. A large open space at first can scare babies and alert them. And in the cradle they feel comfortable, although in three to four months the child will grow out of it and you will have to buy a new bed. An excellent replacement for such a crib is a stroller with a removable basket.

The birth of a child is the greatest happiness. And it is not surprising that parents are trying to create maximum comfort for their baby. The choice of a bed is a task that cannot be solved without thinking everything in detail. After all, for the baby in the first months, it will become the main "habitat".

Criterias of choice

The range of cribs for newborns is amazing - from classic wooden ones to futuristic transformers. Therefore, before going to the store, you should think about what suits the style and color scheme. The material of manufacture is also not the last criterion when choosing this element of the interior. And, perhaps, the most important thing is the safety of the baby.

Bed type

The cribs on sale can be roughly divided into the following groups:

• - a small, lightweight model with compact dimensions. It can be easily carried around the house. Suitable for an infant up to six months old;
• traditional- is performed most often from wood. But there are also models from other materials. Parameters - 120x60 cm. A baby up to 3 years old will feel comfortable in it. Some models may differ in size and period of use;
• transformer- combines the functions of a bed, a chest of drawers, a changing table, and as the child grows up, it can be transformed into a school desk. The feature set depends on the specific manufacturer. It can be used up to 7-12 years;
• playpen- you can sleep and play in it. Lightweight design with padded edges. Recommended for children under 3 years old, but some manufacturers may set a weight limit.

Each version of a crib has its own characteristics. For example, a cradle and playpen can be used not only as a main berth, but also as an additional one. That is, the baby who fell asleep in them is then transferred and placed on another bed.

Advice! It is better to decide on the choice and purchase furniture 2-3 weeks before birth. The bed needs to be assembled, installed in its place and the room must be well ventilated.

Manufacturing material

Since ancient times, wood has been used to make cribs. Natural raw materials have qualities that can ensure a healthy sleep for a child. Today, there are products on sale not only from wood, but from plastic, metal and wood composite (MDF, chipboard and plywood). Models are also produced in which the material is combined. When choosing a crib for a baby, first of all, it is necessary to be guided by the harmlessness of the raw materials used. Low quality MDF panels can emit formaldehydes, although furniture made from them has a very attractive price.

Form and construction

Whatever the model, the main structural elements remain unchanged - front, rear and side backrests, bottom and legs. And starting from such a "meager" set, the designers have created a great variety of models of various forms and functionality. Today, you can easily find not only traditional rectangular, but also oval and even round beds. Various decorative elements add sophistication to the product. It is up to the consumer to decide how necessary and convenient it is.

Feature set

The main purpose of a crib for a baby is to create conditions for sound sleep. To do this, they are often equipped with runners or a pendulum mechanism for motion sickness. A removable or drop-down sidewall makes it easier to care for the baby. In some models, a bedside box is provided, in which it is convenient to store children's things. Naturally, transforming beds have the greatest functionality, but they are quite bulky.

Mobility

For most parents, it is important that the crib can be moved around the room. The cradles have the greatest mobility - they are easy to carry and install anywhere. Classic models and playpens are large in size, and their movement around the room is provided by wheels attached to the legs. Transformers are the least mobile - they are quite heavy and moving them from place to place can be a problem.

Bottom type

The bottom of the crib can be solid or slatted. It must have reliable fasteners so that the naughty kid does not fall through. The bottom height adjustment function is important. This will allow, as the baby grows up and grows, to adjust the height of the sides. Some manufacturers offer designs that allow you to set the desired bottom slope. In addition to the type of lounger, it is important to choose the right mattress: it must be comfortable, hypoallergenic and have orthopedic characteristics.

Advice! The mattress must be dried regularly, like the rest of the bedding (pillow, blanket).

Availability of additional equipment

To create more comfort, manufacturers of children's furniture produce additional equipment for baby cots. They can be built-in, as an integral part of the design, or sold separately. For example, you can purchase special mounts that will allow you to attach a baby bed to the parent's bed at night (while the front side is removed). Additional options can be pull-out drawers, runners, canopy, etc. The variety offered by the modern furniture market will allow parents to choose a crib filled with an optimal set of functions.

Crib safety criteria: what to look for when buying

An axiom is the statement that children's furniture must meet increased safety requirements. The presence of certificates confirming that the materials used in the production are harmless to the child is a prerequisite when purchasing a crib. The design of the product should exclude the possibility of injury to the baby. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the absence of sharp corners and protrusions, the reliability of the connections. The distance between the rods of the sides is 6-7 cm. This is necessary so that the arms, legs and the baby's head do not get stuck between the slats. It is necessary to take care of the availability of locks for the wheels and the pendulum mechanism. Such a device will prevent the crib from moving and rocking due to a naughty baby.

The choice of furniture for a newborn rests entirely with the parents. And their well-considered decision will determine how comfortable, safe and healthy their baby's sleep will be.

A baby bed is an irreplaceable helper for healthy sleep and rest for a baby. In specialized stores, this attribute is presented in a huge number: cradles, transformers, classic and many other options. In this publication, we will take a closer look at how to choose a bed for a newborn that will be comfortable and safe?

How to choose the right bed

1. Safety. When choosing a product, parents should make sure of its safety: there are no sharp corners, protruding valves, as well as large slots.
2. Ventilation. An acceptable option would be to buy a bed that does not have a solid bottom and sides. This will provide the baby with good air ventilation.
3. Product material. For newborns, it is better to choose a crib made from ecological material. The most popular are products made from wood. Cribs made of metal and aluminum are in slightly less demand among parents. Also pay attention to the availability of additional options: removable wall, orthopedic mattress, pull-out shelves for linen.

Criteria for choosing a baby bed

The modern furniture market is represented by a wide range of various models of baby cots. They differ in price, material of manufacture, color scheme, design solution and functionality. What kind of crib to choose for the baby is up to the parents. However, before making a choice, it is advisable to study some of the models and their features:

The versatility of this piece of children's furniture can significantly save parents' financial costs. After all, when the child grows up, some structures can be dismantled, thereby increasing the size of the berth.

Newborn bed size

Often, adults do not know how to choose the right bed for a newborn. Usually the standard sizes of baby beds are 120/60 cm.When buying sleeping furniture of a different size, pay attention to the presence of a hard mattress and the following options:

• bottom adjustment - raising, lowering;
• movable castors with clamps.

Carefully inspect the crib for factory defects and defects. After all, the safety of a sleeping place for a baby should be at the highest level.

Availability of additional options

The modern baby bed market is full of different models and configurations. Products with built-in additional options are very popular:

• the presence of boxes;
• chest of drawers;
• shelves;
• pendulum mechanisms, etc.

It is necessary to choose a crib for a newborn taking into account the size of the area of ​​the children's room. Before purchasing a product, carefully examine its appearance. The surface should be flat, without roughness, defects and no strong odors. Pay attention to the tightness of the adjacent removable parts. If it is violated, it can lead to unwanted consequences.

The product must have an appropriate quality certificate, which guarantees its safe use. Refrain from buying cribs that have formaldehyde or lead additives in their paintwork. Such models are unsafe for the life and health of the child!

Modern stores are overflowing with several types of cribs in different materials, different shapes, and it is difficult for parents to make a choice.

To know how to choose a crib for a newborn, it is important to know some of the nuances. Then you will be able to purchase a convenient, comfortable and reliable model.

Types of cots

Choosing a crib for a newborn is a serious matter. Parents think about how to choose a model so that it is comfortable for the baby and fits into the interior.

The main types of beds are:

1. Cradle;
2. Transformer;
3. Manege;
4. Classic bed;
5. Round crib.

Cradle

During the first weeks of life, a newborn is afraid of a large space, so a compact carrycot is the ideal choice.

After the baby grows out of the bassinet, it can be transferred to the crib. It is convenient in that it will be possible to rock the newborn in it, move it, holding the handles. Sometimes the kit comes with a stand for it.

To be honest, I must say that most of the time your newborn will be in your arms, sucking and naps. And when you try to put it in the cradle, it will wake up.

Yes, this is a reality for which you need to be ready and not be offended that a child refuses such an expensive and long-chosen cradle.

To better understand your baby and not create high expectations, take a look at the online course Happy Motherhood: Gentle Care Technique for Babies from Birth to 3 Months.

Of course, there should be a place to put it back. And for that matter, a cradle or even a stroller is a very good option.

Convertible bed

A transforming bed is a piece of furniture that can change its appearance. It has a function:

• chest of drawers;
• pedestals.

These beds are suitable for children from birth to 7 years old. As the child grows up, extra items can be removed to make the bed longer. Some models are suitable even for teenagers.

On average, the size of the transformer is 120x60 cm. Silicone pads are included to protect the child. The back is lowered, the bottom can be fixed in several ways, at different heights.

There is a pendulum mechanism that will free the mother's hands from the baby's motion sickness.

Playpen bed

Playpen beds are made of metal, plastic and fabric. It is convenient to take them on a trip because they fold up and are easy to clean. A special mattress is not required for them, but if you want, buy it separately.

The playpen differs from the crib in that it is wider and shorter. It has additional elements:

1. Changing table (on some models).
2. Shelf for creams and other small items (in some models).
3. Mobile.
4. Pocket.

It can be carried to the room where the mother goes so that the baby is in sight.

Classic

Most people are thinking about how to choose an economical crib for a newborn? The most suitable option is a classic bed. It is also the most common.

It is usually made from wood (beech, aspen, birch, maple) and metal. Some models are produced on casters, the height of the bed is adjustable.

The top position is for an infant. As the child grows older, the bottom drops.

More expensive models have drawers for storing bed, toys or clothes. In this model, the child can sleep until the age of three.

Round

Recently, round cribs have become popular. She is stylish, transforms into various options. Of the additional functions it has:

• changing table (not available on all models);
• boxes (not in all models);
• motion sickness mechanism (not in all models).

The downside is that such a model has a high cost and large size.

Crib material

When you think about which bed is best for a newborn, you also look closely at its material. Children's furniture models should be:

1. Reliable.
2. Durable.
3. Eco-friendly.

It is usually made from materials such as:

• wood (beech, birch, alder, aspen, oak, pine);
• metal.

Natural wood is certainly the best option, but expensive. If it is pine, then it will be cheaper, as it is softer and may deform.

MDF is compressed wood fibers, they are reliable and safe.

Particleboard is a compressed shavings, they most often contain harmful formaldehyde. Care must be taken when choosing models from such material. It is recommended to check the certificate before purchasing.

Furniture made of metal (steel, aluminum) is strong, durable, but has a lot of weight and cost.

Mechanisms and additional parts

In addition to standard details, there are additions to the crib. For example, you can do without a mosquito net or canopy, they only collect excess dust.

But if the side wall is removed in the crib, then it will be easier for a grown-up child to climb into it himself.

Adjusting the bottom in a crib is good because you can remove one of the side walls, move the crib to an adult sleeping place, closer to mom.

Many parents prefer to sleep with their baby, but if they connect the baby's crib to theirs, it will be more comfortable for everyone to sleep.

Important! Pay attention so that there is no gap between the two berths where the child can roll.

The bottom is adjustable in levels. Usually there are from two to five. For sleeping together, the fifth is suitable.

By the way, this is the most optimal crib option, especially if you plan to breastfeed. After all, getting up at night with a child, feeding, waiting until he falls asleep and putting him in a crib is not within the power of every mother.

It is much more comfortable for both the child and the mother to sleep close to each other and at the first squeak of the child, attach it to the breast.

Sleeping together allows you to get enough sleep from the first days after childbirth and raise a calm, healthy baby.

Some models also have such parts with mechanisms:

1. Car wall;
2. Rocking chair;
3. Wheels;
4. Pendulum;
5. Mattress;
6. Removable slats.

The car wall is a movable wall, it goes up and down when you press a button.

A rocking bed (runners) helps to rock the newborn. When not needed, it can be fixed in a stationary position. When the child is free to stand up, the braces will come in handy.

The casters on the crib are convenient because you can easily move it to another place. Such models usually combine both skids and wheels. But if the crib is on them, it will not be possible to swing it.

A pendulum-like mechanism makes motion sickness easier. It is such a suspension on straps that effectively rocks the newborn. He can be:

• longitudinal;
• transverse;
• universal.

The longitudinal pendulum moves along the child's body, transverse across, and the universal pendulum swings back and forth.

The bottom of the crib can be slatted or solid.

Important! The slatted bottom is ventilated, thanks to which unpleasant odors and moisture will not linger.

Removable slats are located above the side walls. When a child grows up, it is difficult for him to climb over the side. It is too early to remove one of the walls, the baby may fall from the crib.

So, by removing only the slats, you can get the perfect option. A child without the help of parents can safely get out of the crib.

The ideal gap between the rail and the wall is 7cm. With a greater distance, the child can stick an arm, leg between them and get stuck.

In addition to these basic details, the set can include decorative elements, for example, a canopy. It's beautiful, but you can catch on your sleeves, hit. And be sure to clean it from dust.

The modern assortment amazes with a wide selection of baby cots. They differ in functionality, design, colors, quality, price and other parameters. It is important to choose a comfortable and safe product, because newborns spend most of their time in the crib. In this article, we will look at how to choose a baby cot. And we will find out which models are best suited for children of a particular age.

How to choose the right bed

• Products must be safe for the baby and made of non-toxic materials. There should be no protrusions and sharp corners that can be hit, and loose latches where you can pinch your finger;
• The most environmentally friendly material is polished unpainted wood;
• Metal structures that are sheathed with hypoallergenic fabric are also suitable as a material for production. Steel and aluminum are strong and durable;
• If the bed is made of chipboard or MDF panels, choose materials with an emission class up to E1. The parameters are indicated in the certificate for the product;
  Experts do not recommend taking plastic as it is not durable. In addition, many manufacturers do not monitor the quality of plastic products, as a result, the crib can be toxic and cause allergies in babies;
• Choose a crib cover that is safe to chew on. In this case, the model may be accompanied by special pads made of non-toxic safe materials;
• A suitable spacing between the rods in the side rails is 7-8 centimeters. To prevent the baby's leg or handle from getting stuck between the bars, it is important that they are not positioned too often. They must not be too rare, otherwise the head may get stuck;
• For newborns, it is better to choose a crib with a two-level bottom. Then you can easily put the baby higher, and when he grows up the level is lowered so that the baby cannot get out of the crib;
• When choosing dimensions, then you will need to choose a mattress and bedding by size. Therefore, it is better not to choose non-standard parameters;
• The classic sizes of a baby cot are 120-60 centimeters. However, more often parents choose more compact models with adjustable length. So, they produce products with a length of 59-180 centimeters and a width of 42-140 centimeters;
• The model on wheels is suitable for those who plan to move the crib around the apartment. Removable castors are a suitable solution, which can be replaced with legs or even runners if necessary to rock the baby. Be sure to purchase wheel locks so that the crib does not move on its own;
• Before choosing a crib for a newborn, study the different types and models of this device.

Classic wooden cots

The traditional wooden cot is used for babies from birth to three to four years old. It is made of safe and environmentally friendly material. Choose models with wheels, then the device can be easily moved to the desired location. Products on runners can be swung when they are loosened with a lock, and when secured, they can be firmly placed on the floor.

To choose the right crib for a newborn, pay attention to the processing of wood. The structure must be properly sanded and not varnished. This is the safest and most environmentally friendly option for your little one. But be prepared that without such treatment, it may soon crack and lose its attractive appearance. To prevent this from happening, experts recommend choosing beech or oak, which are characterized by strength, lightness and durability. However, wooden cots made of beech and oak are quite expensive.

More affordable options are alder, birch and pine wood products. However, the latter can, over time, begin to emit resin, exfoliate. The result is chips and scratches. Birch, on the other hand, becomes covered with cracks during long-term use. If you do buy a wooden bed covered with varnish or paint, be sure to choose odorless, hypoallergenic, non-toxic formulations. It can be special paints for children, acrylic or silicone varnish.

Wooden cots are often equipped with a double bottom level and have a standard size of 120x60 centimeters. Some models are supplemented with drawers, in which it is convenient to store various children's things. These are powder, wet wipes, diapers and more. However, such boxes make the structure heavier, as a result, the device cannot be moved around the room.

To ensure that the necessary things are always at hand without weighing the product down, you can make a pocket made of dense fabric with ties. This is a practical and rational item that will become a great helper for mom and at the same time decorate the crib. The removable pocket can be hung on the crib and changing table or taken with you in the stroller.

Metal and side cots

Metal products follow the shape of wooden models. However, they can additionally include a cradle. The metal is not harmful to the baby, as the body is covered with a protective hypoallergenic fabric. The child will not come into contact with metal structures. Modern metal beds can be folded out and increased in length, which makes it possible to use the product for a child 5-7 years old. The bottom of these cribs is double, so the device can be used as a playpen.

Many mothers prefer to use a baby in the first months of a baby's life. Note that in the first 10-12 weeks, constant bodily contact with the mother is very important for the newborn, because it provides psychological comfort and the correct development of the child. In addition, sleeping together at an early age helps the baby fall asleep faster and improves lactation. A woman will be able to feed her baby at night without getting out of bed.

For the organization of joint sleep, the attached model, which is installed close to the mother's bed, is perfect. But do not forget that after 3-4 months, pediatricians recommend teaching your baby to sleep in a separate bed. However, here, you can use an additional structure. If necessary, you can remove and install the walls or sides in the crib. This device is suitable for children from birth to three years old.

Cradle for newborns

The cradle is suitable for babies from birth up to 3-6 months. However, some manufacturers offer models that can be used for up to a year. Among the advantages of the cradle is its compact size. In such a crib, the baby will feel cozy, comfortable and protected. In addition, you can rock your child in the cradle so that he or she can calm down or fall asleep sooner. Some models require musical accompaniment.

Modern cradles are made of safe, hypoallergenic and breathable materials. They are often equipped with handles or castors so that the basket can be easily moved. The cradle can be installed on a stationary support or in a baby cot with straps. The first option is higher.

The cradle can already be equipped with a baby mattress and a canopy or a mosquito net, bed linen. But you can choose these products yourself. How to choose a mattress for a newborn, read.

Pendulums and rockers

Classic rocking chairs are already a thing of the past, as doctors talk about the harmfulness of such rocking. In addition, the design is extremely inconvenient and dangerous for a grown baby. The rocking chair represents the runners in the form of arcs, with the help of which it swings from side to side. The bottom of the device is equipped with drawers where you can store baby and other necessary items. But because of the rocking, things will begin to roll and create extraneous noise that will scare and wake the baby up or, conversely, will not let him fall asleep.

With age, the child will begin to rest against the side bars, as a result of which it can fall out of the crib. In addition, the baby will be able to swing independently. According to doctors, intense and strong rocking is harmful to the vestibular apparatus and heart health, sometimes causing dizziness.

A crib with a pendulum is a movable suspension on belts, with the help of which a newborn is rocked. The pendulum can be transverse, longitudinal or universal, swinging babies along or across the body, or in each direction. Motion sickness in such a crib is considered less harmful than in a rocking chair. In addition, such models are equipped with a locking mechanism that will not allow the baby to swing independently.

Among the minuses, we note that a crib with a pendulum takes up a lot of space. When installing the product, you need to leave at least ten centimeters in length and width for comfortable rocking. In addition, such a structure is not durable, it may break or begin to creak. Rockers and pendulums are not recommended for children over six months of age.

Transformers

These products are comfortable, practical and functional. They include a baby cot and boards that transform into a changing table or chest of drawers. In addition, the design may include additional removable shelves, drawers for laundry and toys.

Many models can later be converted into a crib for an older baby. As the child grows up, additional elements are removed, which lengthens the crib. And if the sides, shelves and partitions are completely removed, the bed will turn into a sofa. Such designs are suitable for children from the first days of life to seven years.

Convertible beds are ideal for practical and rational parents. Such a product can be used for many years and save space in the room. Separately, we note the oval transformer beds, which look original, graceful, neat and aesthetically pleasing. They take up less space than rectangular ones and are safer for the baby, since there are no sharp corners.

The oval bed can be transformed into a cradle, a round playpen, a sofa or armchairs with a table. Graceful flowing rounded shapes make the model stylish. It will harmoniously fit into any space and, due to its extended functionality, will never get bored.

Arena

Modern folding models that are convenient to take on a walk and on trips. How to organize a joint trip with a small child, read the article. Such products are made from lightweight materials, including metal, plastic and special fabric. Due to this, the equipment can be easily transported and transported, washed. The playpen does not require special care and a separate mattress.

Playpens are shorter and wider than a classic crib. However, they perform the same functions as the traditional version. There is an upper level of the bottom location, which is needed for children from birth to three years old. The models are equipped with additional elements, including a changing table, shelves, a mobile and a pocket for small items.

In addition, there is a zipper on the side wall of the crib, which the baby can independently open from the inside and get out of the shelter. Due to their convenient use, functionality and easy maintenance, playpens are often used in everyday life, and not just for travel. Such devices are suitable for babies up to three years old.

As a rule, playpens indicate the age of the child up to which the structure can be used. Lightweight models are suitable for babies weighing 6-7 kg, more stable options are used for children up to 15 kg.

We looked at different models and found out which crib to choose for a newborn. However, it is necessary not only to choose the right design, but also to choose safe hypoallergenic bedding and accessories, including pillows, blankets and a mattress. In addition, hanging toys, rattles and mobiles can be installed in the crib to help the child's development. You will find tips on how to decorate, decorate and secure your baby cot by following the link.