Baby Furniture Buying Guide from 4little1s.comIf you or someone you know has recently welcomed home a newborn baby: Congratulations! Pregnancy and parenthood are amazing, indescribable joys. It's also a huge responsibility. You will soon be spending most of your waking life making sure your son or daughter is comfortable, happy and, above all, safe.
If this is your first infant, the responsibility can be daunting enough, let alone the task of navigating a whole new world of nursery bedroom furniture. Never fear! This nursery baby furniture buying guide is here to help you figure out how to buy baby furniture for the nursery that will best serve your needs and the needs of your child.
What you need to know
Most every resource on baby furniture begins and ends with the topic of safety, and for good reason. Safety should be your number one consideration when you're shopping for each article of furniture. Luckily, with consumer advocate groups and trade organizations like the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA), you can check products' compliance with an array of rigorous safety standards at a glance. After that, allow yourself some peace of mind! Once you know a product is certified, it can be much more relaxing, easy and fun to choose your nursery furniture.
Bassinets, cradles and Moses baskets
Before purchasing a baby crib, many new parents prefer that their newborn infant sleep in a bassinet or cradle or a Moses basket. Not only are they more lightweight and portable, making it easy to keep your sleeping baby nearby, but many parents also find a cozy, compact bassinet to be a comfort for their baby.
When you're choosing a bassinet or Moses crib, consider how frequently you'll be moving from room to room. Detachable, wheeled bassinets make great two-in-one stroller-sleeper combinations, while no-fuss wicker and rattan Moses baskets are easy to pick up and move. Also, consider how long your bassinet will be useful. While many parents treasure them long after they're outgrown, as soon as your child is able to roll over on her own (usually around 4 months), a lightweight bassinet or Moses bed can tip over, which means it's time to move up to a standard crib.
Cribs
Newborns spend a great deal of time sleeping. It's not uncommon for them to be asleep eighteen hours a day. But don't expect that to mean you'll have many full nights' sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, natural, predictable sleep patterns begin to emerge after the first few months and continue to develop as a baby ages. Most likely, you will become well-acquainted with the act of cradling your baby to and from his crib. Because you'll be putting him down at all hours of the day or night, it's important to look at cribs that make it all the more easy and safe.
Newborns spend a great deal of time sleeping. It's not uncommon for them to be asleep eighteen hours a day. But don't expect that to mean you'll have many full nights' sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, natural, predictable sleep patterns begin to emerge after the first few months and continue to develop as a baby ages. Most likely, you will become well-acquainted with the act of cradling your baby to and from his crib. Because you'll be putting him down at all hours of the day or night, it's important to look at cribs that make it all the more easy and safe.
Convertible cribs
Convertible cribs are so named because of their ability to transform from baby cribs to toddler beds, and sometimes, to full-size adult beds. Thanks to good planning, they have become extremely popular over the years. They're designed for convenience and stability, and convertible cribs let your baby keep a familiar piece of nursery furniture for years. You may be glad you invested in an expandable, adaptable piece of furniture when it comes time to shop for twin-size bedsteads and children's furniture a few years down the road.
Convertible cribs are so named because of their ability to transform from baby cribs to toddler beds, and sometimes, to full-size adult beds. Thanks to good planning, they have become extremely popular over the years. They're designed for convenience and stability, and convertible cribs let your baby keep a familiar piece of nursery furniture for years. You may be glad you invested in an expandable, adaptable piece of furniture when it comes time to shop for twin-size bedsteads and children's furniture a few years down the road.
Drop-side cribs
Many drop-side cribs are also convertible, so most likely you will be able to enjoy the conveniences of a convertible crib. One or two sides of the crib can be lowered, making it much easier to lay baby down without waking him up. Different methods of dropping the crib sides are available, so check to see if the crib you prefer has a method that would be easy for you. If you are right- or left-handed or how you hold your baby could make the difference in buying a crib with a one-hand, two-hand, knee or foot-engaged drop side.
Many drop-side cribs are also convertible, so most likely you will be able to enjoy the conveniences of a convertible crib. One or two sides of the crib can be lowered, making it much easier to lay baby down without waking him up. Different methods of dropping the crib sides are available, so check to see if the crib you prefer has a method that would be easy for you. If you are right- or left-handed or how you hold your baby could make the difference in buying a crib with a one-hand, two-hand, knee or foot-engaged drop side.
Industrial cribs
Not just for day care professionals, industrial cribs make great auxiliary cribs for grandma's house or go-to beds for when you are traveling. They tend to be easier to move, sporting swivel casters and collapsible designs. Window cribs allow an unobstructed view of your baby through clear acrylic panels, and folding metal cribs are lightweight, compact and perfect for when your baby needs to sleep away from home.
Baby mattresses
Baby mattresses (whether they are bassinet mattresses, Moses basket mattresses or crib mattresses) should fit snugly in the bedframe and allow no more than two fingers (one inch) of clearance on any side between the cushion and the crib. Any small space can be a safety hazard, so your most essential mattress specifications are the dimensions. Also take into consideration your baby bed's mattress depth and spring tension. Links have been made between SIDS and soft baby mattresses, so to be safe, make sure your baby sleeps on his back on a firm mattress designed specifically for infants.
Baby dressers
Baby mattresses (whether they are bassinet mattresses, Moses basket mattresses or crib mattresses) should fit snugly in the bedframe and allow no more than two fingers (one inch) of clearance on any side between the cushion and the crib. Any small space can be a safety hazard, so your most essential mattress specifications are the dimensions. Also take into consideration your baby bed's mattress depth and spring tension. Links have been made between SIDS and soft baby mattresses, so to be safe, make sure your baby sleeps on his back on a firm mattress designed specifically for infants.
Baby dressers
The right baby dressers are as functional as they are good-looking. You might be surprised at how quickly these chests of drawers fill up. With diapers and other toiletries stored alongside baby's new articles of clothing, chest space and bedroom space will quickly become a hot commodity.
Baby dressers with built-in changing tables are particularly convenient for parents who want a changing table near a quick change of clothes. If you wish to use a dresser that's not changing table-ready, you can buy a changing pad that secures to the top of the dresser. In either case, baby dressers make wonderful nursery pieces that are useful after your baby is grown.
Baby Changing tables
Most parents will tell you that changing tables turn out to be very handy. Changing tables usually feature shelving to store changing aides, making frequent changings more comfortable and convenient for you and baby alike. Whether you choose a stand-alone changing table, an outfitted sideboard or a furnishing combined with a dresser, here are some things to look for:
Guardrails: Guardrails should be at least two inches high. A good, cedar wood changing table guardrail will also make it easier for you to keep a handle on your baby while sorting through wipes, diapers, clothing and other essentials.
Most parents will tell you that changing tables turn out to be very handy. Changing tables usually feature shelving to store changing aides, making frequent changings more comfortable and convenient for you and baby alike. Whether you choose a stand-alone changing table, an outfitted sideboard or a furnishing combined with a dresser, here are some things to look for:
Guardrails: Guardrails should be at least two inches high. A good, cedar wood changing table guardrail will also make it easier for you to keep a handle on your baby while sorting through wipes, diapers, clothing and other essentials.
Safety straps: Any modern changing table should come with safety straps standard. While you will probably become an expert in doing things one handed, taking both hands off your baby for any length of time requires you use the safety strap.
Height: Find something with short legs and a sturdy surface that's approximately waist-high. The less time you spend bent over, the happier and more effective parent you'll be. Your baby and your back will thank you.
Storage: Changing, like voting, is best done early and often, so everything you need should be close at hand. Many changing tables come with a few drawers; the more difficult those are for your baby to open, the better. If your changing table has shelves, store all of your changing supplies in baskets, so you can reach in for a fresh diaper or for baby powder without taking your hand of your baby.
After a few nursery furniture essentials, it can be tempting to skimp on something like a baby hamper. But a baby hamper will reward you in the long run by holding its own against blitzes of dirty baby clothes. Some baby hampers will have a machine-washable bag that detaches from a sturdy frame, to make things convenient. A great baby hamper will last years after your baby outgrows it as an appealing storage solution for toys, extra blankets or anything else you might need to tuck away. Baby Hampers - don't miss them off
Storage and organization
Baby furniture in the nursery is just the beginning. You might be surprised to one day look and find how much you've collected in the ways of diapers, clothes, supplies, toys, books and more. Managing the collection will be a great deal easier with the right storage and organization on your side.
Open baskets are a time-honored, fantastic way to keep your essentials in working order. They keep baby's small, essential items in sight and at an arm's reach. If your nursery is a bit smaller, consider a storage tower that satisfies your hamper and storage needs in one. See the range at 4little1s.com
Some common questions about baby furniture
Some common questions about baby furniture
How can I be sure my crib is safe?
First, check for JPMA certification. Second, beware of used or antique nursery furniture. Crib safety means making sure you have a firm, fitted mattress, sturdy assembly without any missing or broken pieces or hardware, no more than 2 3/8 inches between slats, no corner posts over 1/16 inch high and no cutouts in the headboard or footboard. Anything with JPMA certification won't have hazardous materials, but if you are concerned about finishes or lead paint (especially in anything built prior to 1974), contact your city or county government's lead paint program.
First, check for JPMA certification. Second, beware of used or antique nursery furniture. Crib safety means making sure you have a firm, fitted mattress, sturdy assembly without any missing or broken pieces or hardware, no more than 2 3/8 inches between slats, no corner posts over 1/16 inch high and no cutouts in the headboard or footboard. Anything with JPMA certification won't have hazardous materials, but if you are concerned about finishes or lead paint (especially in anything built prior to 1974), contact your city or county government's lead paint program.
New nursery furniture is expensive. What's wrong with a classic?
The idea of using antique or lightly-used furniture -- especially when money is tight -- can be tempting but risky. While it's a romantic idea to use baby furniture that's a family heirloom, a gift from grandparents to grandchildren or a gift from godparents to godchildren, safety should always be your first, second and last consideration. And if you have to justify new nursery furniture expenses, just remember the deals you're finding on 4little1s.com
What baby furniture will I need outside of the nursery?
One essential is a portable changing pad. Pads with upturned corners do a great job of keeping your baby in place. High chairs are indispensible for when your baby is old enough to eat at the table. Swings can be perfect for putting a smile on fussy babies' faces. Of course, for the ultimate in parent-child relaxation, nothing beats a living room rocker or glider.
One essential is a portable changing pad. Pads with upturned corners do a great job of keeping your baby in place. High chairs are indispensible for when your baby is old enough to eat at the table. Swings can be perfect for putting a smile on fussy babies' faces. Of course, for the ultimate in parent-child relaxation, nothing beats a living room rocker or glider.
Ideas from 4little1s.com
Good night, sleep tight
After deciding on a crib, a baby bedding set under soft lighting can add a beautiful touch that fits your baby's personality. Visit 4little1s.com baby bedding department to find the right linens, crib sheets, baby blankets, bumpers, crib sets and pacifiers to make your baby happy.
After deciding on a crib, a baby bedding set under soft lighting can add a beautiful touch that fits your baby's personality. Visit 4little1s.com baby bedding department to find the right linens, crib sheets, baby blankets, bumpers, crib sets and pacifiers to make your baby happy.
If you have never heard of a Swaddle Pod - you are missing out ! Swaddle pods are designed to encourage better sleep in new born babies. The swaddle pod swaddles the baby making them feel safe and secure, whilst lying on their backs. - Swaddle Pods are great for a good nights sleep all round
Baby-proofing your home
4little1s.com has a wide variety of products to make sure nothing in your home -- from dining rooms to living rooms and chaise sofas to fitment bookcases -- poses a threat to your baby. Take a look at our affordable child safety gates, bed rails and baby monitors.
4little1s.com has a wide variety of products to make sure nothing in your home -- from dining rooms to living rooms and chaise sofas to fitment bookcases -- poses a threat to your baby. Take a look at our affordable child safety gates, bed rails and baby monitors.
Keeping ahead and going
Taking care of a little baby can be exhausting work. Don't jeopardize your kids' health by jeopardizing your own. Make sure to take care of yourself and your partner by maintaining your health and nutrition, relaxing with aromatherapy and massage or indulging in some fine sweets and chocolates. You deserve it!
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