Saturday, February 10, 2007

Baby: Tips for buying a crib

The Sunday, January 28, 2007, Chicago Tribune offered these tips to consider before buying a crib. We'll probably end up getting a bassinet from Shana's family, but we both found these suggestions helpful:
    1. Safety: The Consumer Product Safety Commission lists safety requirements for cribs. Even though we're getting a hand-me-down, we'll still check it against these standards.
    2. Assembly required: No surprise here — read the directions before purchasing the crib. "If things look too complicated, consider a crib that's easier to assemble."
    3. Get a firsthand look: Even if you shop online, go to a store to check out the model you're interested in. This will let you let you check the stability of the frame and get a feel for the mattress. **"Cribs that support mattresses with metal spring systems or metal hardware are preferable to those that suspend with vinyl or cloth straps."**
    4. Form, function, style: Where's the crib going? How do you and the crib get along? Some cribs have drop-side features on one side only, others, not at all. "Test to find which works best for your height and comfort level. For extra storage, look at models with drawers underneath. Models on wheels make for easier cleaning around the crib."
    5. Beware of convertibles: A "convertible" crib can transform from a crib to a daybed, toddler beds, or twin-size beds. If you decide to get one of these, make sure you love the style, because you'll be stuck with it for a while. **"Think about whether you are going to have another kid. If so, consider whether you really want to buy a second crib because the first child's was converted into a toddler bed."**

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