Cribs & Sleeping

How to Choose the Right Crib or Bed for Kids of All Ages

As every new parent knows, choosing a bed for babies and children is sometimes challenging. Not only is your child's sleep space the focal point of any nursery or bedroom, but finding the right combination of style, durability, and comfort ensures you get the most for your investment while also providing your child with a restful night's sleep.

While aesthetic appeal is important, choosing a bed that is age appropriate to ensure your little ones are safe and secure. Although there may be various sleeping options available for any given age range, some are more suitable for certain ages than others, while some are more practical for certain living situations than others.

Find Cozy Cribs for Newborn to 6 Months

When people think of babies, they usually picture a crib. And to be sure, you will want a crib for your new little bundle. Not only are they practical, durable, and safe ' but a luxury baby crib makes a style statement in any nursery. However, for newly born babies, sleeping closer to mom and dad is usually the best option. Not only does the close proximity make nighttime feedings and diaper changes easier to handle in the wee hours, but studies have shown that babies who sleep in the same room as their parents have a lower risk of SIDS.

If you have a very large room, normal sized cribs for kids might be a good option. For most families, though, something smaller will work much better for those early months. There are numerous options available:

Co-sleepers: These are small beds that attach to your bed. This allows you to share your sleep space, but with a divider to keep baby in a separate area where he is safer.

Bassinets: Bassinets or cradles are the most commonly known form of newborn sleeper. They can be like very tiny cribs, or they may come in round, rocking, or fancier designs.

Moses Baskets: Named after the Bible story of Moses, who was sent down a river inside of a woven basket, Moses Baskets are small baskets or carriers with a pad for baby to sleep. They can be moved from place to place, and used in your bed so baby can sleep with you without risk of someone rolling over on him.

Mini-cribs: The difference between a mini-crib and a full-sized crib is generally only the size. Many are small enough to fit in even tight spaces, but still large enough to accommodate older babies, unlike bassinets.

Play yards: You'll probably want to get a play yard for your little one at some point, as they make a wonderful space for baby to play safely when you can't hold him. Many come with attachable bassinets which can be placed on the top and then removed when baby outgrows it. Mattresses can be purchased for use in play yards to make them more supportive and comfortable.

Shop Affordable Baby Cribs Infants 6 Months and Older

Baby cribs are the most logical choice for older babies and young toddlers. Most are adjustable, so you can keep the mattress higher when baby is very tiny, so you won't have to bend over as far to pick him up. Then, move the mattress lower when baby learns to sit up and stand.

Cribs aren't just cribs anymore, however. There are a vast assortment of styles available ranging from sleek and simple to more ornate. What you choose will depend on your nursery theme, interior design preferences, and budget. Luckily, all cribs meet certain safety criteria, so you can be sure all of our items are secure for your little one, even if you desire a more budget-friendly option.

You can also find cribs that convert into toddler, full sized, twin, and day beds. Some may require an affordable conversion kit, but this allows you to use the same bed for multiple ages and stages.

Get Sturdy Toddler Beds and Beds for Kids

Eventually, you're little one will be ready for a toddler bed, or even a twin bed. There is no cut and dry age for when this milestone should occur, but there are a few signs you should look out for.

* Baby suddenly doesn't want to sleep in his crib
* Baby begins climbing out of his crib, even at the lowest setting

Look for toddler beds made from real wood, or another durable material such as laminate or metal. Lower grade beds are more likely to wear down over time, especially with rambunctious toddlers climbing all over the place. Cute as they may be, cheaper character or themed beds aren't made for the long haul, so if you intend on using the bed for multiple children, you're better off with something sturdy and timeless.

As your child gets older, you'll want something that is big enough to grow with him throughout childhood and beyond. Twin sized beds, full sized beds, and daybeds are the most standard sizes for older groups. There are numerous styles to choose from, ranging from ornate scrollwork and patterns to basic cottage headboards.

If you have limited space, you might also consider getting a bunk bed to sleep more than one child, or even a loft bed so allow for play space beneath his or her bed.

Find the Right Mattress for Any Age

While getting a good, durable bed is important, finding the right mattress is where it all comes together. Sleep is highly important for children of any age. During sleep is when the body rejuvenates and rebuilds tissues that may have been injured during play or work. Optimum rest is highly important for young children, so choosing the right mattress is a must.

Mattresses should be firm, but not hard. There are several types of mattress from which to choose:

Innerspring mattresses are the most common, and they use coiled springs at the interior to support the body. They do not offer as much 'give' as some other options, but they make good options for growing children.

Memory Foam mattresses are another good option, as they mold to the child's body to prevent pressure points during sleeping, so sleep may be more sound.

Find numerous mattresses, as well as protective pads and other gear, right here.