Did you know that not all cribs are made of wood? Believe it or not, the crafting of iron cribs is a trade that still exists to this day. If you’re considering purchasing an iron crib for your baby, there are a few important things you should know first.
Finding an Iron Crib
Since iron cribs are more of a specialty item than some other cribs, they are a bit more difficult to find. Though you can usually find simple iron cribs in the mid-price range, it’s best to pay for quality. An iron crib is meant to last, and may stay in your family for many generations. You may want to check if there are any iron craftsmen in your area that specialize in making iron cribs. Also, you can sometimes order a special iron crib that will meet the exact needs of your baby’s room. Some parents choose to have their iron crib engraved, increasing its value as a family heirloom.
How are Iron Cribs Different?
There are several ways that iron cribs are different than traditional cribs. Some of these differences are:
Durability
Many well made iron cribs for babies are much more durable than some other types of cribs. Iron cribs may also be handcrafted, which means more attention is paid to the small construction details. An iron crib is an investment, but it’s one that’s built to last. If you choose to purchase an iron crib, there’s a high probability that it will be in your family for many years to come.
Workmanship
Since iron cribs are more of a specialty item, many iron cribs are handcrafted by professional artists. The craftsmanship that goes into many iron cribs is hard to ignore, especially cribs that boast ornate or decorative designs. Some iron cribs may even be able to be custom made, though be prepared to wait a long time to receive your order. If you want to order a custom iron crib, you might have to place your order at least six months in advance, depending on the workshop you order it from.
Price
As with all items that are of higher quality, iron cribs are also much more expensive than traditional wooden or plastic cribs. Some iron cribs are two or three times the price of a standard wooden crib. However, many parents that want to purchase an iron crib aren’t concerned about the price. An iron crib is more of an heirloom than a simple piece of furniture, so many people choose the crib they purchase very carefully.
Weight
One of the disadvantages of iron cribs is that they tend to weigh a lot more than wooden or plastic cribs. This means that you’re going to be somewhat limited in the portability of an iron crib. If your baby’s room is on the second floor, keep in mind that it will be difficult to move your crib up and down the stairs (if you end up relocating your nursery).