Crib for baby how to choose. A complete overview of baby beds and their design features

Before proceeding directly to the main types of baby beds, it is necessary to consider those criteria that you should definitely pay attention to when buying.

These parameters include:

Let's consider each criterion in more detail.

Product dimensions

This parameter must be taken into account by all potential buyers, but to a greater extent it concerns the owners of a very modest living space, where parents are forced to allocate strictly limited space for furniture.

  • the usual dimensions are 120 × 60 centimeters (the European standard is 125 × 65 centimeters);
  • increased dimensions are 140 × 70 centimeters (typical for transformer beds);
  • The dimensions of cradles for newborns are usually 97 × 55 centimeters.

Knowing the dimensions is necessary not only to fit furniture into the interior of the apartment. Manufacturers of mattresses, blankets, pillows, bed linen and other bedding are guided by average sizes.

Experts advise taking furniture of common dimensions, so that later you do not have to alter sheets or blankets or order mattresses according to individual measurements. Naturally, this will lead to higher costs.

The main parameters of the materials from which beds for babies are made are no different from the general requirements for children's furniture. The ideal baby bed is durable, environmentally friendly and reliable.

Only a few materials meet such requirements to a greater or lesser extent:

Another material is high quality plastic. Typically, beds are not made entirely of polypropylene, since it is not the most durable. It is possible to use plastic elements - handles, rivets, but you should make sure that this material is non-toxic.

Product safety

Children's furniture should be safe. This is an axiom that does not require proof. Therefore, it is necessary to talk in more detail about such an important parameter as security.

  1. It is better to choose a crib for newborns and children under three years of age with protective sides that will protect the baby from falling during sleep and wakefulness. The optimal distance between the slats of the sidewalls is 6 - 7 centimeters. If the slats are located more often, the limb may get stuck, if less often, the child's head.
  2. All components of the product must be in close contact with each other, there should be no gaps and cracks. The tight fit will prevent cases of pinching of the arms and legs, loosening of the structure.
  3. You should not take an overly light bed, and even with a narrowed base. Such a model is not stable, so that the baby can turn it over. Give preference to a wide bed with a low center of gravity.
  4. Cribs for small newborns have from two to five levels of bottom height. The highest position is suitable for a child who has just given birth, she will also please her mother, who will not have to bend over three deaths. As the children grow older, the sunbed is lowered so that curious kids cannot climb over the sides.
  5. A crib with wheels makes it easier to move around the room. However, such mobility can create some problems when the child is excessively active. To prevent unwanted movements of the crib, make sure that there are locks or stops for the wheels.

In addition to the above structural elements, you should pay attention to the overall safety of the crib. All open parts of the furniture must be smooth, and the corners must be rounded. You should refuse to buy a bed with protruding or easily unscrewed parts, as the child will be able to break them off, unscrew and swallow them.

Many pediatricians, including TV doctor E. O. Komarovsky, convince parents not to accustom children to motion sickness and not to solve many children's problems in this way. The sources of children's crying can be completely different and sometimes quite serious.

Defenders of motion sickness give their own arguments: the child gets used to the measured movements during the period of being in the womb, so the motion helps him calm down. A similar effect is achieved when rocking a newborn in bed. Of course, we are talking about smooth, not abrupt movements.

Motion sickness is achieved due to two main mechanisms and design features:

  1. Skids. In this case, the crib is equipped with curved plates instead of traditional legs, and it is precisely due to this that it becomes possible to rock the baby. When the child grows up, the bed must be fixed with the help of special clamps and stoppers.
  2. Pendulum. The crib, suspended on the straps, allows you to rock the child lying in it without lifting him on the handles. The pendulum mechanism can be longitudinal (along the child's body), transverse (across the body) or universal (swings in both directions).

If you choose cots with a pendulum, do not forget one important nuance. Depending on the type of rocking chair, you need to add at least 10 cm to the length or width for more comfortable rocking.

In addition, you should remember about the function of fixing the bed with a pendulum mechanism in order to prevent the rocking of the structure (and, as a result, its overturning) by an older child.

Choosing a bed is half the battle. For a comfortable and restful sleep, you need to purchase an “ideal” mattress. Briefly describe what requirements apply to this bedding.

First of all, the mattress in the crib must be suitable in size. If you place too small a mat in the bed, then the child will be able to stick his fingers into the gap between it and the sides of the bed. If you take an oversized mattress, then it will become deformed, go "bumps", which will disrupt children's sleep.

Do not rush to take too soft bedding. The main requirement that is imposed on the surface of the couch is optimal rigidity and evenness. This is very important for the proper formation of the spinal column.

To buy the best mattress, you should ask about its “stuffing”. Refuse to purchase a filler made of cotton wool or foam rubber. The first rolls up quickly, and the foam layer does not allow air to pass through well, so the child will sweat.

Optimal fillers are horsehair, woolen threads, felt, dried seaweed, coconut fibers. In addition, you should pay attention to the coverage. It should be waterproof, anti-slip and soft to the touch.

Another important point is the choice of pillow. Do not put a head roll on a child under 12 months of age. The baby should lie on as straight a surface as possible. In some cases, a thin cotton sheet folded in several layers is placed under the head.

Bed linen is selected only from natural fabrics: cotton, terry, flannel. For a baby bed, you will need several duvet covers, large and small sheets. Linen is changed daily, the mattress is regularly dried to prevent mold.

Babies get and give a lot of different dowry: diapers, sliders, diapers, bed linen, play accessories. In such situations, a bedside box comes to the rescue. However, such an element is not found in all models, so parents should decide for themselves whether you need it or if you can get by with a bedside table.

On sale you can also find round transformers, which can be a cradle, an arena, a large bed, a sofa, an armchair with a table. A round crib is an unusual design that will not get bored due to the variety of transformation options.

Advantages:

  • multifunctionality;
  • stylish appearance (round beds are available for sale);
  • the presence of all kinds of additional functions (changing table, storage boxes);
  • you can buy furniture with a motion sickness function;
  • The crib can be used up to 12 years of age.

Disadvantages:

  • high price;
  • massiveness and impressive size (not suitable for a small living space);
  • the bed is quite narrow - only 60 centimeters (this is a minus in adolescence).

Transformers are great children's functional beds from 3 years old, but they are also suitable for newborn babies. If you need a "long-playing" bed, you have extra money, then this model is the best choice.

The Valle Allegra transformer is a practical, multifunctional crib, regularly included in the rating for newborns and older children. The furniture is made of safe chipboard, it is stylish and attractive in appearance.

The design includes drawers, shelves for storing sheets and other linen. There are sides on the side cabinet, so the crib is additionally a changing table. The furniture will last up to 7 years of age.


Pros:

  • pendulum mechanism that helps to rock the child;
  • attractive appearance;
  • numerous additional features (chest of drawers, drawers, changing table);
  • ventilated bottom by the bed;
  • sidewalls are equipped with protective overlays;
  • is relatively inexpensive;
  • stable and reliable construction.

Minuses:

  • fairly heavy construction;
  • non-informative instruction;
  • not always high-quality processing of parts.

Arena

It is a foldable design that is convenient to use when traveling. Such beds are made of lightweight materials - aluminum, plastic and textiles. All parts can be washed, so maintenance is never a problem.

Combining the functions of a bed and an arena, the design still differs from the classic crib in large sizes. But the functionality is usually preserved: you can change the level of the couch, there is additional equipment in the form of a changing table, a mobile, a basket for toys.

Another convenient little thing is the fastener on the sidewall, which allows the grown-up child to independently open the structure in order to get out of it “to freedom”. Parents' reviews show that they value such cribs for maneuverability and mobility.

But if you are considering cribs for a child from 3 years old, then a playpen-shaped bed will not suit you. Such models have age and weight restrictions: up to 36 months and up to 7 kilograms (some beds can be used up to 15 or even 25 kilograms).

Advantages:

  • ease of construction;
  • the crib can be taken to the country or on trips;
  • sidewalls are often made of transparent plastic, so you can track the actions of the child;
  • bright design;
  • multifunctionality.

Disadvantages:

  • single-level beds are too low for mother and child;
  • two-level beds are distinguished by a too low protective side, so that the baby easily overcomes such a barrier;
  • the design is too unstable, the child will be able to turn it over;
  • there is no possibility to rock the baby;
  • without rigid rails, it is more difficult for a child to rise and stand on his feet.

The playpen is not very suitable as a permanent "bed" for a small child. But for use as a play space or a “camping” bed, it is the best fit.

happy baby martin

The playpen is suitable for both newborns and older children. At first it is used as a sleeping place, and then smoothly turns into a comfortable play space. Made from quality materials.

Large windows help provide ventilation. In addition, parents can watch their baby sleep or play. And the available wheels will allow you to easily move the device throughout the apartment. The set includes a removable mattress.


Pros:

  • combines the functions of a crib and a play area;
  • quality performance;
  • easy to fold, you can take with you on a trip;
  • there are wheels for moving;
  • the corners are protected by special anti-traumatic pads;
  • there is a pocket for small items;
  • has 2 levels of bed: for newborns and older kids.

Minuses:

  • rather heavy construction for arenas;
  • the minimum number of colors;
  • seams not very even.

happy baby martin

Separate conversation - a bed for twins. In this case, everything will depend on whether the children's sleep and wake patterns coincide. If the kids fall asleep and wake up at the same time, then at first you can limit yourself to a common bed.

Some pediatricians advise laying newborn twins together, as this way they will quickly get used to a new life. The only disadvantage of co-sleeping is that parents can confuse the kids. And this is dangerous if one of the babies needs to take a certain medicine.

But even if you put the babies together in the first months of life, after a while the grown-up twins will still have to be separated. What options do experts offer?

  • two separate beds. However, they do not have to be the same. Parents themselves decide what to buy for each child. In some cases, sleeping places are even organized in different rooms;
  • 2-tier bed. This design, often custom-made, resembles bunk furniture for teenagers. Simply put, one classic bed is placed on top of the second. Moreover, each tier has its own protective and removable sides;
  • adjacent bed. In this case, the design is two classic beds, standing next to each other. There is a barrier in the middle, and the sidewalls can be removed. Such a bed must be placed with the headboard against the wall in order to free access to children from both sides.

An adjacent bed or crib, consisting of two tiers, is not a cheap pleasure. That's why many mothers and fathers who are lucky enough to become parents of twins are advised to buy two classic beds. They can always be placed next to each other or placed on different sides of the parent bed.

Where to buy a crib for a newborn?

The best options for buying a baby crib are well-known children's supermarkets and popular online stores. Here, experienced consultants will tell you how to choose a crib for a newborn. In addition, the risk of buying low-quality goods is minimized.

Choosing a baby crib on the market or an unknown site is fraught with various problems. For example, you can run into a fake or a cheap product made from low-quality materials that can harm infant health.

Often parents buy beds that have already been used. This is a completely acceptable solution, but only if the product is perfectly preserved, has no damage. But the mattress for the newborn in the crib will have to buy a new one.

Another question is how much you have to pay for such products. The cheapest models cost from 2,000 rubles, but cribs in the price range from 4 to 17 thousand rubles are the most popular with domestic parents. Premium beds are also available for sale for several thousand dollars.

What determines the cost of goods? It is curious that the number of zeros in the price tag is affected not so much by the material from which the bed is made, but by the additional functionality (a pendulum crib will cost more than the classic version), appearance and, of course, the brand.

However, you should not chase products of well-known brands. There are relatively cheap and high-quality models of domestic companies on the market. If you buy them in a reliable store, they will be an excellent sleeping place for a newborn baby.

How to choose the right crib for a newborn?

When buying a baby bed, there are no trifles. Judge for yourself, a too strong smell of paint or varnish can cause an allergic reaction, and unsanded wood leads to splinters. That is why experts advise adhering to certain rules and recommendations.

Buy a crib a few weeks before your baby is born. Furniture must be unpacked and placed in a well-ventilated area. In this case, a not pronounced specific aroma, which often accompanies even high-quality products, will disappear.

A few important "no"

A few important "yes"

1. Be sure to decide on the place where the crib will stand. This will allow you to clarify the dimensions of the product and, accordingly, choose the desired type of furniture (cradle, classic, transformer, arena).

2. Specify what features a crib for a newborn should have. Is it important for you to be able to:

  • change the level of the couch;
  • swaddle the baby on the accompanying changing table;
  • rock the baby;
  • move the bed with the help of wheels;
  • remove sidewalls;
  • store things in a special underbed box;
  • protect the child (and furniture) with silicone pads;
  • turn the cradle into a full-fledged teenage bed;
  • use the product as a playpen.

3. Read reviews of mothers and fathers who have already purchased models of cribs that you like on the parent forums. Such reviews allow you to find out the shortcomings of seemingly high-quality products.

4. Purchase goods only from trusted sellers. It can be either a well-known children's supermarket or a trusted online marketplace. This will reduce the risk of counterfeiting and help you get your money back if you buy a low-quality product.

When making a purchase, be sure to familiarize yourself with the package of documents: a certificate of conformity and a hygiene passport. All documentation received from the seller (coupon, check, etc.) must be kept until the expiration of the warranty period.

Summing up

Which crib is best for a newborn? One that suits him in all respects and takes into account his individual characteristics. Properly selected bed is the most important condition for a calm and healthy sleep, and therefore, full development.

That is why the questions of which bed is suitable for a small child, which blanket to choose for a newborn, how to choose a mobile with hanging toys are very important for creating a bed and improving the quality of a child's life.

A comfortable bed, a soft blanket, a favorite toy - all this is important to consider when equipping a children's room. The furniture and bed linen chosen with love and taste will help the baby develop, explore the world, sleep better and spend waking minutes more fruitfully.

A few decades ago, all beds for newborns were similar to each other, and relatives often simply passed this type of children's furniture to each other “by inheritance”. Today, the market for children's goods offers a rich assortment. In stores, parents see many models of baby beds: of various shapes, with a motion sickness function, equipped with additional drawers, bedside tables, etc. Which option to choose for your child? What to pay attention to?

Important criteria when choosing a crib for a newborn

To navigate the variety of models of cribs on the market today, parents need to know certain parameters that are important when choosing this piece of furniture.

Product size

This criterion will be especially important for a family with a modest living space. Standard indicators are 120 × 60 cm, increased dimensions are 140 × 70 (mostly transforming beds), cradle beds are usually made small (length - no more than 100 cm, width 42–55 cm).

When choosing dimensions, it should be borne in mind that it will be easier to choose bedding, pillows and other accessories for a standard size. On a small or too large bed, many things will most likely have to be sewn to order.

The dimensions of the crib will be especially significant for families with small living space, for example, those living in a one-room apartment

Material

The material of the crib for a newborn should be durable, reliable and at the same time environmentally friendly. In this regard, several options can be considered:

  1. Wood. A very good choice. Furniture made of natural wood must be carefully sanded, treated with harmless coloring and protective agents. Cribs are most often made of beech, oak, birch, alder (pine wood is cheaper, but it is softer, not as strong).

    High-quality cribs are made from durable species - beech, oak, alder, birch

  2. MDF (fine fraction). These are wood fibers pressed under high pressure. These products are also reliable and durable (although they are cheaper than solid wood beds), but harmful substances (epoxy resins, phenol, etc.) can be used in their production. When choosing such a product, it is important to find out the emission class: it should not be higher than E1 - this means that formaldehyde is contained within the permissible norm and will not harm health. In addition, the pronounced “chemical” aroma of furniture should alert.
  3. Chipboard (chipboard). This is a sheet material formed by pressing and gluing small wood chips (also to reduce the cost of production). Such furniture, similarly (like MDF products), may contain a lot of formaldehyde, so the seller must be required to provide a certificate indicating the specific level of this substance.

    MDF is wood fibers pressed under high pressure, while chipboard is made from small chips (it is pressed and glued)

  4. Metal. Beds made of steel or aluminum will be durable, last a long time (you can use it for the second and third child or pass it on to relatives), but they are heavy and expensive.

    Metal beds are very strong, durable, but heavy and quite expensive.

  5. High quality plastic. This material is not very durable, so it is usually used for the manufacture of individual elements (but not the bottom of the bed).

Video: the nuances of choosing a crib for a newborn (the topic is discussed in the program of Elena Malysheva)

In the program, experts give priority to metal cribs as the most environmentally friendly.

Bottom height and version

The bottom of the crib can be solid or slatted. Pediatricians recommend the second option, since it does not impede the constant ventilation of the mattress (moisture and unpleasant odors will not linger in it).

The slatted bottom does not interfere with the ventilation of the mattress - moisture and unpleasant odors will not linger in it

In addition, it is important that the bottom of the crib can be adjusted in height. In different models, from 2 to 5 levels are offered. The top one is convenient in the first months of a child’s life, when he still doesn’t know how to sit down and get up: it will be convenient for mom to put the baby down and not bend too much. As the baby grows, the bottom drops.

It is important that the lowest level is located from the top edge of the sides by 60-65 cm - not lower than the armpits of the child standing in the crib.

It is very convenient when the height of the bottom is adjustable in the crib

Spacing between rails

The side rails of the crib protect the baby from falling during sleep and wakefulness. It is important that the distance between them is not too large or, conversely, small. In the first case, the baby may stick his head in and not be able to pull it out himself. In the second, a handle or leg may get stuck between the slats in a child. Therefore, the optimal distance is 6–7 cm.

The distance between the slats should not be too large or small so that the head and limbs of the child do not get stuck

Top rail protection

As the baby grows older, he will taste everything, including his own crib. And when the teeth begin to erupt, the baby can bite off and swallow part of the furniture cover. Therefore, an important element of the crib are special pads on the top rails. They are made of silicone or plastic (materials that are safe for the health of the baby) and well protect children's teeth and furniture from damage.

It is important that the top rails have special protection

If the crib is metal, then soft textile linings are often used for the upper rails (with buttons so that they can be removed and washed). Of course, the baby will not be able to gnaw on steel or aluminum, but there is a risk that he will hit the hard surface of the furniture.

If the crib is metal, a soft textile lining is required for the top rail.

Removable rails

Naturally, not all families buy cribs just for babies. In most cases, this furniture is used until the baby is 3-4 years old. When the child learns to walk, he will probably want to get out of the crib on his own. So that the crumbs are not tempted to climb over the upper side, it is best to simply remove the two slats from the side wall. Therefore, you need to purchase a model that implies such a possibility (the element can simply be removed, and not sawn off).

It is best to do this not in the middle, but on the side where the baby's legs are usually located. That way he won't be able to fall out of bed when he sleeps.

It is better to remove the slats from the side where the child's legs are located during sleep

The presence of wheels

If parents plan to periodically move the crib around the room, then it is better for them to choose a model with wheels. However, such a detail can create problems if the baby is excessively active or if the crib is attached to the parent (it does not have one side wall). Therefore, you need to think in advance about special clamps or stoppers. It's good to be able to take them off as needed.

If you plan to move the crib around the room, it is better to purchase a model on wheels.

Almost all of the criteria mentioned are directly related to the safety of the child. Among other things, the crib should not be too light (the baby will be able to turn it over), not have easily unscrewed parts, chips, or other damage. It is important that all open parts of the furniture are smooth, the corners are rounded.

Overview of popular models

Many models of newborn cribs presented in stores generally meet the criteria for safety and convenience. To choose the right option, parents should know the characteristics of the furniture, its pros and possible cons.

Classic crib

It is made of wood or metal, most often it has a standard size of 120 x 60 cm. It is usually equipped with wheels for movement. A variation is a rocking bed (at the bottom there are arcuate runners for rocking a baby, to which, in turn, wheels can be attached).

Some models allow you to remove the side part (for example, to attach a crib to an adult). Also, many cribs in the kit have arcs that allow you to make a rocking chair out of the crib. This is safe because the arcs have delimiters.

A removable wall and rocking skids are available in many modern models of cribs.

Advantages:

  • The design is simple - furniture rarely breaks.
  • A child can sleep in such a crib until at least 3-4 years old (many children sleep until school).
  • It is easy to pick up a mattress, bed linen.
  • Many classic models are presented in budget options.

Disadvantages:

  • The design is rather bulky.
  • Budget models have minimal functionality (there are no overlays on the top rails, wheels, mobile, etc.).

Crib with pendulum

Unlike a rocking bed, the legs of the furniture remain motionless during motion sickness - only the bed moves, while the child remains in a horizontal position.
Such a "pendulum" is presented in different versions - longitudinal and transverse. The first imitates motion sickness in the mother's arms (from head to legs), the second involves movements to the right and left. There is also a universal motion sickness mechanism that allows you to alternate different types. It is impossible to say unequivocally which swing option is better - everyone selects it individually.

There is a heated debate on the network about which pendulum is better, but a lot depends on the arrangement of furniture in the room and on the convenience for mom.

The bed can have a manual or electric mechanism.. The first actuates pushing with the hand, and the oscillations continue for about a minute. The second is powered by a miniature electric motor.

For most cribs, the pendulum can be removed, and you get a regular crib.

Advantages:

  • The model is convenient because the crying baby does not need to be picked up to calm down or constantly manually rock the rocking bed.
  • The pendulum works silently, gently swinging the crib.
  • The bed can be used for a long time (at least up to 3 years), just put special clamps when motion sickness is no longer relevant.

Disadvantages:

  • Motion sickness has its opponents (pediatricians, child psychologists): they do not recommend accustoming a baby to this, because the reasons for crying can be serious (and this measure will only drown out the pain).
  • A grown-up baby can start the manual mechanism himself and tip over the bed (although special latches can solve the problem)
  • The design of the crib, of course, is more complex than the classic one, so the possibility of breakage is not ruled out.

Video: is it necessary to rock the baby (explains Dr. Komarovsky)

The well-known pediatrician Yevgeny Komarovsky notes that this method of laying the child down is harmless, but troublesome for parents. He recommends initially (from birth) not to accustom the baby to motion sickness and spend more time actively with him, so that in the evening he would fall asleep on his own from fatigue.

The design combines a bed and some other piece of furniture (sometimes two at once): a changing table or chest of drawers (plus a drawer at the bottom under the bottom). Some models can already be transformed into school furniture (certain details are removed, which increases the length of the bed).

The bed-transformer is disassembled into a bed and a desk with a nightstand

Advantages:

  • Furniture can be used for a long time (up to the 12th age).
  • Multifunctionality, convenience for mom (necessary things are always at hand).
  • Significant savings on children's furniture.

Disadvantages:

  • High price.
  • Impressive dimensions (not suitable for a small apartment).
  • A narrow bed (no more than 60-70 cm) is likely to be uncomfortable for the student.

Round crib (including transformer)

A crib can have an unusual shape - in the form of a circle or an oval (sometimes a circle can be converted into an oval due to the sliding structure). Most often, such models are transformers: they are converted into a cradle, an arena, a changing table, later into a children's sofa or chair, and are equipped with drawers.

Transformation options: round crib or playpen + changing table, oval crib or playpen, oval sofa bed, set of children's furniture - table and chairs

Advantages:

  • The crib will last a long time, it will also come in handy for an adult child (in the form of an armchair or a sofa).
  • Models with drawers, a changing table function are convenient for mom - they make it easier to care for the baby.
  • Stylish appearance.
  • You can choose a model with a pendulum for additional motion sickness.

Disadvantages:

  • Expensive option.
  • Difficulties in buying a mattress and bed linen.

The bed combines a bed and a play area. The structure is often foldable. The side parts are made of textile or transparent plastic. The bed is equipped with a fastener on the sidewall so that the grown child can get out on his own. The height of the bottom, as a rule, changes (2 positions). Possible pleasant bonuses of such a crib are all kinds of functional "chips":

  • wheels for movement with lock-brake,
  • sun shade,
  • mosquito net,
  • changing board or cradle for a newborn, fastened across the arena,
  • arc with toys,
  • mesh pockets at the ends.

The playpen is very functional, you can take it with you to nature and as a sleeping place, and as a play place for your baby.

Advantages:

  • The design is lightweight due to the fabric base.
  • The folding model is convenient to take with you to the country house or on a trip to the sea.
  • Easy care: the parts can be washed (plastic) or washable (fabric).

Disadvantages:

  • Quite large in size, which is inconvenient for a small apartment.
  • You can only use up to 3 years, or even less. After all, some models have a weight limit, for example, only up to 7 kg.
  • Single-level cribs are too low, two-level cribs have a protective side too low, which is dangerous for the child.
  • The structure is not very stable.
  • Without rigid rails, it is difficult for a child to rise and stand on his feet.
  • Child psychologists do not recommend mixing a place for sleeping and playing: this is fraught with problems with falling asleep. Sleep in a child should be associated with a separate place.

Cradle (or cradle)

Compact model, reminiscent of the baby in utero. There is a swing function. The cradles have their own stand, they are also equipped with
basket carrying handles.

The cradle always has a dome and very often a canopy, as well as a rocking mechanism and wheels for moving

Advantages:

  • A good option for a newborn: he will be comfortable and calm in a limited space.
  • The cradle is light and compact, and therefore mobile.
  • The baby can be rocked.
  • It is always possible to turn a sleeping child away from the light.

Disadvantages:

  • The cradle will last up to a maximum of 6 months, after which you will need another crib (not suitable for those who are on a budget).
  • Although the set includes bedding, a change of linen will most likely have to be sewn to order.
  • Not all babies like tight spaces.

Side crib for adult bed

In principle, this is a classic bed, in which one side wall is missing (or it is low). The furniture is placed in a tight to an adult bed (sometimes it is fixed with a special mechanism). But there are also special models with a narrower bed and non-standard shape.

The side bed will be convenient first of all for the mother, especially if the woman is recovering from difficult childbirth and often she simply cannot take the baby in her arms.

Advantages:

  • The baby sleeps more peacefully, feeling his mother's presence.
  • A woman can give her baby a breast at night, sometimes without even getting up, check his general condition.
  • This bed allows you to neutralize the disadvantages of co-sleeping when the husband is forced to sleep separately, as the baby constantly needs his mother's attention or cannot sleep without her.
  • A side bed helps a woman recover from an operative birth or symphysitis and other complications, if doctors do not recommend her to sit and take the baby in her arms.
  • The bed is convenient for the gradual "relocation" of the child to a separate room.

Disadvantages:

  • Specialized models are only suitable for the first year of life.
  • It is important to check when buying whether the product is securely fixed next to the sleeping place of adults.

Photo gallery: models of beds for newborns

A round transforming bed will last a long time and can be converted into other types of children's furniture The classic crib has a simple design and is presented in both budget and more expensive options. A special mechanism swings the bed, while it remains horizontal The compact cradle reminds the baby of the mother's womb, but such a bed is relevant for up to 6 months In the playpen, the baby can sleep and play Transforming bed combines a bed and some other types of furniture The side crib has a low side wall (or it is absent) and is placed close to the bed of adults

Lying blocks of a stroller, baskets-cradles and cradles-bouncers as a possible alternative to a crib

Some families (mainly for reasons of economy) use cradles from a stroller or, for example, portable cradle baskets as a crib. Of course, this can be done for a short time, only the first 3-4 months: it will be simply uncomfortable for a grown-up baby to sleep like this all night long.


Not so long ago, such a children's product as a bouncer cradle appeared on sale. The bouncer allows you to adjust the backrest: the baby can lie horizontally and be in a raised position. It is also equipped with a soothing vibration mechanism. Light weight makes it easy to carry the cradle, including taking it outside. The product is even equipped with an orthopedic mattress, which allows you to put your baby in it for the night. However, it is permissible for a baby to sleep in a bouncer cradle for a maximum of the first three months: later it can easily fall out of there. Of course, there is also a strap for fixing, but it is definitely not suitable for healthy children's sleep.

Sleeping in a cradle-bouncer is permissible only for the first 3 months of life, but it will be more convenient for the baby again in the crib

Video instruction for choosing a crib

Newborn babies spend most of their time sleeping. Therefore, a crib should be as safe and comfortable as possible. Parents choose a specific model based on their financial capabilities, their own preferences and the individual characteristics of the newborn.

24.02.2019

Choosing a crib for your newborn baby, but don't know which one to choose? Are you lost in the variety of models and design features? In this article, we will help you make a choice. We will tell you what types of cribs are, what material is better to choose, and give 10 examples of the best models from different manufacturers.

First of all, let's figure out what a crib should be like so that the baby is comfortable and safe in it.

Safety requirements

  • It is important that the crib does not have sharp corners, and the baby does not hit them.
  • The material from which the bed is made, as well as the paintwork must be environmentally friendly.
  • It is better to choose beds with a slatted bottom and walls so that the baby has enough air.

Important! The optimal distance between the slats at the wall of the crib is 8 cm.

  • The crib should have an auto-wall or auto-bar that can be raised and lowered as needed.

  • The front wall must be removable. Thanks to this function, the mother can move the baby to her bed and watch him.
  • In addition, slats should be removed in the front wall so that the grown-up child can independently get out of the crib and climb back.
  • Please note that there are special silicone pads on the walls of the bed so that the baby gnaws them (and not wood or metal) when his teeth erupt.
  • The mechanism of the auto-wall or auto-bar must be safe for the child.

Types of cribs

cradles

Designed for babies from birth to 6-7 months. This is due to their size - up to 95 * 50 cm. They are equipped with wheels so that the cradle can be moved. Also in some models, a motion sickness system is provided.

Classic

The bed is rectangular in shape, can be on legs or on wheels, which are removed if necessary. A crib with removable wheels can be installed on skids, with which the crumbs can be rocked in the crib. The sleeping place in them can be 120*60 cm, 125*65 cm (European size) and 140*70 cm. External dimensions are larger, and each manufacturer differs by 1-2 cm.

Pendulums

They are designed to make it easier for your baby to fall asleep. The pendulum can be longitudinal - swing along the axis of the bed, and transverse - the baby's motion sickness occurs in the direction from side to side. Cribs can be equipped with drawers for linen. This is useful if there is not enough storage space in the room.

Transformers with chest of drawers

  • The size.



The mattress must be exactly the same size as the bed.

  • Case material.

Also pay attention to what material the mattress cover is made of. It must be removable and made of hypoallergenic material. The best choice would be a cover made of linen or cotton.
Make sure that the mattress does not deteriorate if the baby does "his business" in the wrong place and at the wrong time. To do this, buy a special oilcloth for the mattress. It is better that it is fixed with special rubber bands.

Choosing a crib is a responsible matter, because your newborn baby will spend most of the time in it. Which one to choose is a personal decision. We hope that our advice will help you make your choice. And if you couldn’t find a suitable model in the store, it doesn’t matter: we have prepared how to assemble a crib yourself. 1 rating, average: 5,00 out of 5)

Reading this article:

Post navigation

At first, a newborn spends much more time in a state of sleep than awake (). During this period, the analysis and assimilation of all the new information that the baby has received takes place. That is why it is so important to create conditions for a newborn to have a good, restful sleep. To do this, first of all, the child will need a cozy bed where it would be comfortable to sleep. Despite the fact that there is a huge amount of information about them today, many young mothers continue to be interested in questions: how to choose the right crib for a newborn baby, whether it needs wheels, whether a built-in box is needed, and others. Let's deal with them.

Choose the right bed!

Safety requirements for a crib for a newborn.

Regardless of the type in the crib for a newborn:

  1. There should be no protrusions or sharp corners so that the baby does not hit them, as well as unreliable latches, due to which you can pinch your finger.
  2. Contrary to the opinion that the crib should be exclusively wooden, pediatricians are now offering to consider metal models as an alternative. After all, most wooden cribs are varnished to prevent drying and breakage of parts. If you still decide to buy a wooden product, then you should check with the seller what kind of varnish or paint it is covered with, and even better, so that special linings made of non-toxic materials are present on the surfaces that the baby can gnaw with the appearance of teeth.
  3. The bottom and side surfaces should not be solid in order to ensure good air ventilation in the crib itself and under the mattress.
  4. The bars on the sides should not be excessively frequent so that the child's leg or arm does not get stuck between them. Also, they should not be too rare, so that the baby does not try to stick his head through them. The optimal width between them is 7-8 centimeters.
  5. Another requirement is the presence of a removable wall. You can’t call it mandatory, but such a detail can make life much easier for mom at night, if you move the crib with the front wall removed close to the adult.
  6. Also an additional, but not mandatory requirement is the presence of two levels of the bottom of the crib. Then you can easily put the newborn on the bed higher, and when the child grows up and tries to get out of the crib, then the level of the bed can be lowered.

If you are hesitant about which crib to choose for your newborn, then the following overview of the different models of cribs may be helpful. Choosing the right model will mainly come down to what features you would like to see in it.

Such cradles seem to be specially designed so that a tiny and defenseless baby is surrounded by the maximum amount of warmth and comfort. They are most often made from hypoallergenic breathable materials (for example, from willow vines). They are small in size, and the space of the newborn is very limited (like in a mother's belly), which gives him a feeling of additional security. In addition, they can be easily moved to wherever you need, since many models are not only light in themselves, but also equipped with wheels. Well-known manufacturers complete their cradle beds with a mattress, a canopy (as an option - a mosquito net), bedding and funny toys. Some of these cribs are even equipped with a motion sickness system to music.

A variant of such a crib for a newborn can be a special cradle, which is attached to an ordinary wooden or metal crib with the possibility of rocking the baby. It is convenient to get it, for example, to go outside.

Their main disadvantage is that, with their high cost, these models will not last longer than 6 months, since the child will simply grow out of them.

Classic model. wooden crib

These are the most common models, designed for both newborns and babies up to three years old. If it was not varnished, but was simply well polished, then it is difficult to find a more environmentally friendly option. Beds equipped with wheels can be easily moved around the room to the desired location. Cots on runners with loose clamps allow you to rock the baby before going to bed, and with fixed ones, you can install the crib firmly on the floor.


wooden crib

Typically, such models have a double bottom level and a standard size of 120 by 60 cm. Many of them are supplemented with drawers, which, of course, makes it more convenient to store all kinds of children's little things at hand with a small room size, but they also make the crib heavier and make it almost unrealistic moving around the room.

Rocking beds and pendulums

Rocking chairs - a traditional model, arcuate skids allow you to swing it from side to side. Minus: when the baby grows up, he, leaning on the side bars, can fall out of the bed. The storage box at the bottom is low-functional: when swinging, the items in it will roll and make noise.

rocking bed

Pendulums can be longitudinal and transverse. They have a bulkier design that can break or start to squeak. But the model with a pendulum has strong advantages: motion sickness in them is considered less harmful than in a rocking chair, and the presence of a locking mechanism will prevent the baby from swinging on their own.

Moms take note!


Hello girls) I didn’t think that the problem of stretch marks would affect me, but I’ll write about it))) But I have nowhere to go, so I’m writing here: How did I get rid of stretch marks after childbirth? I will be very glad if my method helps you too ...

Such a model is suitable for practical parents who can quite rationally use not only their own finances, but also the space in the room. They are called transformers because in most cases they are equipped with additional removable pieces of furniture such as a changing table, chest of drawers or cabinets, various shelves and drawers for linen or toys. In addition, some models can be moved apart, turning from a crib for a newborn into a good bed for a schoolboy. And if you remove all the partitions and shelves, then they may well serve as a small sofa.


Among the main disadvantages is that after a couple of years this coloring and the bed itself can simply get bored with the child or significantly worsen its appearance due to the artistic or handicraft abilities of the growing child.

Transforming crib: advantages and disadvantages -

These models are extremely elegant - smooth rounded shapes look very stylish. In addition, the absolute absence of sharp corners increases the safety of the product, and the baby inside is very comfortable. And such a bed takes up less space than a rectangular one.


But this is not all the advantages of such structures. They are still very cleverly transformed. A round transforming crib can become a cradle, a round playpen, a small or large (if the walls are pushed apart) oval crib, a sofa, chairs with a table. Thanks to the variety, she will never get bored.

side bed

You can sleep next to the baby, while not worrying that dad will crush him, if you buy an extra bed for newborns. However, the baby can sleep in it up to three years. The side wall of such a bed reclines, and the mother, without getting out of bed, can feed or calm the child. From the point of view of psychology, such closeness is useful and convenient for both the baby and the mother.

side bed

We read in detail about side beds, about the rules for choosing, about popular models

metal cribs

The shape resembles traditional wooden models, but can be additionally equipped with a cradle. The child does not come into direct contact with metal parts, since all parts are covered with fabric protection. Sometimes these cribs can be laid out, creating a sleeping place for a preschool child. The bottom in many models has two levels, and the crib can be used as an arena.


metal crib

Read also

Loading...Loading...