Crib Connect – Baby Crib Info & Reviews

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  • Round Cribs

    While many parents go for a rectangular or square crib, some parents decide to purchase a round crib for their child. These round cribs can add a different style and flair to any nursery, especially when paired with accessories. Many round cribs for babies are bassinet style, with a cloth covering that acts as a canopy to shield the baby from excessive light. However, some round cribs are designed for older children, up to and including children of toddler age. Are you considering purchasing a round crib for your child? Here are a few tips about how to choose a round crib, and how to decide which round crib is best for your baby.

    Choosing a Round Crib

    Round baby cribs may be a bit more expensive than traditional rectangular or square baby cribs. Some round cribs may have additional features, but the decision is really a matter of personal preference. Are you choosing a round crib because you think it would look better in your nursery? Or, would you like a round crib that has additional features, such as an attachable changing table or storage shelves for baby items? When choosing a round crib, don’t forget that you may have to purchase a separate crib mattress as well. Finding crib mattresses for round cribs can be a bit challenging, since round cribs aren’t as common as traditional square or rectangular baby cribs.

    Round Crib Bassinets

    In most cases, round cribs are sold as bassinets. The reason for this is that small round cribs are popular among many parents when their children are under four months old. After about four months, a baby becomes able to roll over, which makes it dangerous for you to use a bassinet. Round crib bassinets may be sold as single purpose units, or may sometimes be able to be converted into a larger crib for when your baby is over four months old.

    Round Cribs for Toddlers

    Some parents like to have a round crib for when their baby reaches toddler age. These round cribs are much larger than bassinets, and may include convertible features. Round cribs are usually best for large nurseries, since they can’t be easily fitted into corners of the room. Some parents like round cribs for toddlers because they don’t have corners where a child could become caught between the crib rails.

    Round Cribs for Twins

    Some types of round cribs are meant to be attached together for families that have twins (or even triplets). These round cribs might be able to be secured with brackets, or permanently attached with screws. By having separate round cribs for your babies, this ensures that both children will have their own, private sleeping environment. Some round cribs for twins also come with cloth covers, though most are sold as a “bassinet” style round crib.

    More About Round Cribs

    Want to find out more information about round cribs? Here are a few of our other articles:

    1. Round Cribs for Babies
    2. Bedding for Round Cribs
    3. Cheap Round Cribs
    4. Discount Round Cribs

  • Convertible Cribs

    For many parents, baby furniture that has versatility is preferred. While a convertible baby crib may be more expensive, it can also give you a great piece of furniture that will be able to be used throughout your baby’s growth cycle. Also, some types of convertible cribs can save space, reducing the need for other furniture items in your baby’s room.

    However, navigating the hundreds of portable baby cribs on the market can be a bit of a challenge. There are 4 in 1 cribs, changing table cribs, and even convertible cribs that can be used as a full size bed. Which one is the best choice for your baby?

    What is a Convertible Crib?

    There are many different types of baby cribs that could be called “convertible”. Essentially, a convertible baby crib is simply a crib that can be modified to be used for other purposes. For example, some convertible cribs are able to be modified so that they can be a toddler’s bed when a child reaches a certain age. Other convertible cribs can be turned into a makeshift changing table, simply by moving around a few of the crib’s parts. Convertible cribs are very popular, since they provide multi-functionality and versatility for parents

    Types of Convertible Cribs

    There are several different types of convertible cribs for babies. Some of these types are:

    Dual Crib/Toddler Bed
    Many parents don’t like the prospect of purchasing a new bed for their child when they reach toddler age. That’s why convertible cribs that can be used as toddler beds are so popular. These cribs can often have their side panel completely removed, which expands the crib and provides an open environment where a toddler may sleep. Also, toddler beds usually come with cushy bumpers, which are placed around the outside edges of the crib to help prevent injury.

    Crib/Changing Table
    Some types of convertible cribs can easily be modified to become a changing table. In some cases, the bottom of the crib can be raised up, so that the mattress creates a flat surface where a baby can easily be changed. Other types of convertible cribs have an attached changing table, which may be able to be popped out from the crib to create a changing table.

    Cribs/Headboards
    Some convertible cribs are meant to be used as headboards for full size beds, for when your baby is much older. These types of convertible cribs may not have the bed frame or mattress for the full size bed included, which means that you will probably have to purchase them separately.

    Learn More About Convertible Cribs

    Want to know more about convertible baby cribs? Here are a few of our other articles about convertible cribs.

    1. Convertible Cribs 4 in 1
    2. Baby Convertible Cribs
    3. Toddlers bed rails for convertible cribs
    4. Cheap Convertible Cribs
    5. Discount Convertible Cribs
    6. Crib Tents for Convertible Cribs
    7. White Convertible Cribs
    8. Best Convertible Cribs
    9. Convertible Cribs with Changing Table

  • Bassinet Reviews

    Reading reviews about different baby products is just part of being a responsible parent. We’re very fortunate to have the internet, since it gives us instant access to what other people are saying about particular baby products. When choosing which bassinet is best for your baby, if you’re like most parents, you’re going to do your research. Part of this research should involve reading bassinet reviews. Here’s some information to help you learn about reading (and writing) bassinet reviews.

    Writing a Bassinet Review

    To help other parents make their decision about which bassinet is best, be sure to share your experiences! By telling other people about your opinions about a particular bassinet that you’ve owned, you’re helping them make better decisions for their child’s safety. It’s especially important to report any potential problems you’ve had with a bassinet, since other parents need to be warned about potential safety issues.

    Reading Bassinet Reviews

    When reading bassinet reviews, there are a few key factors that you should pay attention to. These include:

    Durability
    Pay attention to what other customers mention about the durability of the bassinet. Did it have weak joints? Did the support for the bassinet seem secure? Were there any issues with handles, straps or other items becoming frayed or broken? If you’re spending a lot of money on your baby’s bassinet, you want to make sure that you’re actually paying for a quality product. By reading reviews that test the bassinet’s durability, you can gain a better understanding of its quality.

    Potential Safety Issues
    Always pay attention to any potential safety issues that have been identified by other customers, no matter how small. Did the bassinet have any issues being transported? Was the mattress an improper fit? Were there any gaps between the side of the bassinet and the mattress? Always assume that any claims about safety are valid, unless they have been expressly identified and addressed by the manufacturer.

    Compliments
    With so many people posting negative reviews about products, it’s easy to forget that some people might have compliments as well! While it’s important to take all compliments with a grain of salt, pay attention to any recurring trends that are commonly mentioned in the complimentary reviews. For example, if more than one person mentions that a particular bassinet was able to last through several pregnancies, this could be a good indication that the bassinet has good durability.

    Cut-and-Paste Reviews
    Be wary if you see the exact same positive or negative review posted on several different review websites. In some cases, a company (or an opposing company) may have an employee or affiliate write a biased review in order to artificially influence the ratings of a particular product. For example, if a company feels that one of their bassinets has gotten unfairly poor reviews, they may have someone write a glowing review pointing out why the other reviewers were wrong. Always take all bassinet reviews with a grain of salt, and don’t believe everything you read.

  • Bassinet Accessories

    A bassinet is a great and traditional way to keep your baby secure during their early months. Though not all parents use bassinets anymore, many people still like the traditional look of a bassinet in their family room. Bassinets can be useful, as long as you follow a few safety precautions, and don’t use them after your baby is over four months of age.

    Like so many other baby products, bassinets have a wide variety of accessories available as add-on features. Some of these accessories are useful, while others simply make your bassinet appear more visually attractive. Depending on your needs, you might choose to purchase some accessories for your baby’s bassinet. Here’s a quick guide to bassinet accessories, and which accessories might be useful for your baby.

    Bassinet Canopy
    A bassinet canopy is one of the accessories that’s included in many bassinets. Since your baby is usually only in a bassinet as a newborn, they’re still very sensitive to light. Your baby’s eyes shouldn’t be exposed to direct sunlight, which can cause lasting damage. Also, your baby’s skin is still very delicate and thin. This means that your baby could be easily burned by excessive sunlight. That’s why a bassinet canopy is so important – it helps keep dangerous light out of your baby’s bassinet. Some types of bassinet canopies can be easily adjusted, which gives you more freedom to position your baby’s bassinet in certain rooms of your home. Also, some bassinets have canopies that can be completely removed for easy transportation of the bassinet.

    Bassinet Bumpers
    Bassinet bumpers are cushy accessories that are meant to protect your baby from becoming injured on the edges of the bassinet. However, these bumpers can also pose a safety hazard, since they can cause a restriction of airflow around your baby while in the bassinet. Because of this, many pediatricians recommend against using bumpers in your baby’s bassinet, unless they’re made of a breathable material.

    Bassinet Stroller Attachment
    Some bassinets can be inserted directly into a stroller to make transporting your baby around town much easier. This bassinet accessory is usually a special type of stroller that has securing mechanisms that are used to hold the bassinet. However, keep in mind that most bassinets aren’t able to be used for your baby after four months of age. Because of this, it might be better for you to invest in a traditional stroller instead.

    Bassinet Skirt
    Bassinet skirts are a cosmetic accessory for bassinets, but are favored by many parents looking for a more traditional appearance for their bassinet. A skirt for a bassinet is usually used for a raised bassinet, and extends down over the support system onto the floor. A bassinet skirt can give a raised bassinet an elegant, flowing appearance. If you aren’t looking to spent money on a bassinet skirt, you can always make your own easily by using a pattern from a crafts store. All it takes is some fabric, elastic material, trim (usually lace) and a sewing machine!

  • Bassinet Mattress

    If you plan to keep your newborn baby in a bassinet, you’ll probably end up purchasing a bassinet mattress. Trying to decide which bassinet mattress is best for your baby? Confused about the different types of bassinet mattresses available online? We can help! Here’s a quick guide to some of the information about bassinet mattresses that will help you make the best choice for your baby.

    Bassinet Mattress Safety

    There are a few safety tips that need to be followed when choosing a bassinet mattress. Some types of bassinet mattresses may actually be dangerous for your baby, or pose a serious safety risk. The best way to prevent this is to make sure the bassinet mattress that you purchase is designed for the bassinet you own. Some bassinet mattresses aren’t a perfect fit in certain bassinets. If you purchase one of these mattresses, return it right away! The mattress in your bassinet should sit snug against the side of the bassinet, and not bow in the middle. The mattress itself should be completely flat, and provide an even surface for your baby to lay on. There are some serious safety risks associated with an improperly fitted bassinet mattress, including an increased risk for suffocation. Your baby’s bassinet should be a stable, level area where your baby can sleep comfortably.

    Firm Bassinet Mattress

    The best type of mattress grade to purchase for your baby’s bassinet is a firm mattress. Though this may seem like it would be uncomfortable for your baby, it’s the best choice for your baby’s safety. Most all pediatricians and baby experts agree that a firm grade mattress is the safest and best choice for a newborn. If your bassinet mattress is too cushy, it could mean that your baby could be at risk for developing respiratory problems, or having restricted airflow around their head. It’s also best to avoid any excessively soft mattress pads that fit on the top of the bassinet mattress, since these may also pose risks for your baby.

    Organic Bassinet Mattress

    Many parents choose to purchase an organic mattress for their baby’s bassinet, due to the potential benefits. An organic bassinet mattress is usually made with fibers that are all-natural, and is free of any chemical components or toxic dyes. Organic bassinet mattresses are favored by many parents that feel that exposure to synthetic fibers at a young age could be dangerous for infants. However, organic bassinet mattresses are often more expensive than some other types of mattresses that aren’t certified organic.

    Waterproof Bassinet Mattress

    It’s always best to consider purchasing a waterproof mattress for your baby’s bassinet. Many babies will have several “accidents”, in some cases more than three times per night! It’s best to assume that you’re going to spend a lot of time cleaning out your baby’s bassinet. A waterproof mattress will protect your mattress from stains, damage and mildew that could result from the mattress being kept damp.

  • Bassinet Sheets

    Bassinet sheets are one of the most important items to purchase when preparing for your new baby. If you’ve chosen to use a bassinet for your baby’s first few months, be prepared to keep at least seven sets of sheets on hand. When purchasing bassinet sheets, there are so many different choices! There are colorful bassinet sheets, and sheets that have prints of popular cartoon characters. There are synthetic fiber sheets, and bassinet sheets that have been certified organic. There are even sheets that are designed to be resistant to messes! With all of these choices, how can you be sure you’re choosing the right type of bassinet sheets for your baby’s needs? Here is a quick guide to bassinet sheets, and some information to help you decide which type of bassinet sheets are best for your baby.

    Bassinet Character Print Sheets

    Many parents like to purchase bassinet character print sheets for their baby. These sheets may feature popular cartoon characters, superheroes or princesses. Character prints are a fun way to bring some color to your baby’s bassinet, and may match the theme of your baby’s room as well. For example, if you’re designing your baby boy’s room around a superman theme, you could purchase colorful printed superman sheets for your baby’s bassinet. No matter what character print you choose, remember that it won’t matter to your baby! By the time that they can recognize characters on their sheets, they will probably have graduated from a bassinet into a full sized crib.

    Organic Bassinet Sheets

    Some parents like to purchase organic bassinet sheets for their baby’s bassinet. Since babies are so sensitive to environmental changes in their first few months, it is possible that they could be negatively affected by certain types of sheets. Some sheets are chemically washed, or may contain toxic dyes in their material. Sheets made of synthetic fibers could cause your baby to develop respiratory problems, or cause your baby’s skin to become irritated. To prevent this from occurring, you can purchase organic bassinet sheets, which are kinder to your baby’s skin. Organic bassinet sheets also are usually made of all-natural fibers, and don’t contain any toxic dyes or washes. Many parents like organic bassinet sheets as a “peace of mind” item, since it means their baby won’t be exposed to potentially dangerous chemicals.

    Fitted Bassinet Sheet Safety

    When choosing a fitted sheet for your baby’s bassinet, you need to be cautious. A bassinet fitted sheet must be completely snug around the mattress inside your bassinet. There shouldn’t be any loose fabric around the sides, or any areas where the sheet can be easily pulled away from the mattress. The corners of your fitted sheet should be tight against the mattress as well. This is extremely important, because any loose fabric in your bassinet’s fitted sheets could put your baby at risk for suffocation. Also, too much loose fabric in your fitted sheet could restrict airflow around your baby, which could increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

  • Bassinet Bedding

    In the advertisements for baby bassinets, you often see a comfortably sleeping infant surrounded by cushy blankets. Bassinet bedding is an important part of setting up your bassinet for your new baby. Bassinets are favored among many parents, and are used up until a baby is able to roll itself over. When choosing your bassinet bedding, there are a few things you should know. Here’s a quick guide to bassinet bedding.

    How Many Bedding Sets Should I Have?

    You might not realize it, but you should have at least seven sets of bedding for your baby’s bassinet. While this may seem like a lot, consider what might happen with a newborn baby. Babies are prone to making messes, either as diaper overflow or spitting up food. What if your baby spits up on their blankets three times per night? This means that you’ll have to go through three sets of bassinet bedding, which will all need to be washed and dried before being used again. Seven sets of bassinet bedding should give you enough so that you’ll be able to keep enough extra clean sets on hand for accidents.

    Matching Bassinet Bedding

    If you have chosen a theme for your baby’s room, you’ll probably want to make sure that your baby’s bassinet bedding matches your theme. However, don’t worry too much about buying expensive matching bassinet bedding sets for your baby’s bassinet. Stick to neutral colors that are easily able to be cleaned in the event that they become stained or soiled. You can always go for more decorative bedding when your baby moves out of a bassinet and into a crib at four months of age.

    Bassinet Bedding Prices

    Don’t spend too much on bedding for your bassinet! Remember, your baby will only be able to be in the bassinet until they can roll over, which usually happens at around four months of age. Also, bassinet bedding will probably become stained, torn or otherwise soiled. Stick to simple bassinet bedding that’s inexpensive yet durable.

    Cheap Bassinet Bedding

    The best place to find cheap bassinet bedding? Your local thrift store! Since babies grow out of their bassinets so fast, you’ll probably find a wide assortment of bassinet bedding at the thrift store. In most cases, the bedding is extremely inexpensive, since many thrift stores receive a large number of donations for bassinet bedding. Though it may be more difficult to find a matching set, for many parents it’s well worth it for the price.

    Bassinet Bedding Safety

    Your bassinet bedding should be able to be tucked snugly around your bassinet’s mattress, keeping your baby comfortable without being tight enough to restrict blood flow. The blankets and sheets should only be able to be pulled up to your baby’s armpits, since any higher could pose a suffocation hazard for your baby. Also, try to purchase bassinet bedding that’s made with natural fibers, without any toxic dyes or materials. If you wish, you can also purchase organic bassinet bedding, which may help your baby avoid toxin contamination.

  • Bassinet Types

    Thinking about purchasing a bassinet for your baby? Bassinets are a great way to keep your baby comfortable during their first four months. However, did you know that there are many different types of bassinets? Just like many other baby products, bassinets may have included features to help make caring for your baby much easier. Here is a bit of information about the different types of baby bassinets.

    Bassinets with Hoods
    Many types of bassinets have a cloth or plastic hood that helps to block out excessive light. Since your baby’s eyes are still developing, it’s important that you don’t allow them to be exposed to direct light. Also, sunlight can damage your baby’s sensitive skin, so it’s best to always purchase a bassinet that has a hood. In many cases, these hoods can be adjusted or detached from the bassinet itself.

    Portable Bassinets
    If you’re constantly on the move, a portable bassinet might be the right type of bassinet for you. Portable bassinets offer more freedom over their stationary counterparts, since they can be easily moved with you from room to room. Want to watch TV while keeping an eye on your sleeping baby? Portable bassinets give you the ability to

    Stationary Bassinets
    A stationary bassinet is usually raised up on a platform, putting the baby at a level where they can be easily accessed by their family. Stationary bassinets may also have covers, and may also have rolling wheels so that they can be easily moved from room to room. These bassinets are able to be used up until the baby is four months of age, when the baby is usually moved to a traditional crib.

    Co-Sleeper Bassinets
    A co-sleeper bassinet is a special type of bassinet that allows the baby to sleep close by its mother. The co-sleeper bassinet can be attached to a regular bed, with a lower side that faces the bed. This gives a mother the ability to be next to her baby throughout the night. Some parents favor co-sleeper bassinets especially in the first few months with their baby, since it gives them more comfort knowing their baby is nearby.

    Rocking Cradle Bassinets
    Some types of bassinets are fitted in the form of rocking cradles. These types of bassinets are usually low to the ground, and have rails that allow the bassinet to be easily rocked from side to side. Rocking cradle bassinets are not usually meant to be permanent sleeping solutions, especially for households with pets. Since they’re so low to the ground, the baby could be exposed to the attentions of home pets, which could cause health problems.

    Moses Baskets
    The “Moses Basket” bassinet is simply another name for a light and portable bassinet that can comfortably hold your baby. These types of bassinets are usually very snug, and may have a handle or strap for easy portability. Most Moses Basket bassinets can also be put in the same category as portable bassinets.

  • Bassinet Brands

    It’s no secret – there are thousands of different products for babies. Baby bathtubs, rockers, strollers, cup warmers, wipe covers and many other products are sold at most baby supply stores. However, how many of these items do you actually need? In some cases, you have to ask yourself if the price of the item is really worth the convenience.

    When it comes to choosing your baby’s bassinet, you’re going to have a lot of options available to you. Different types of bassinet brands will have different features, different materials and different prices. Which one is best for your baby? In the end, it comes down to personal choice and common sense. Here’s some information about different bassinet brands that will help you decide which brand of bassinet is best for your baby.

    Choosing a Bassinet Brand

    There are a few things you should consider when choosing a bassinet brand, including:

    Bassinet Brand Reviews
    It’s very important that you read the reviews of a particular brand before purchasing it. Try to gain a better understanding of the company’s quality standards by reading reviews on a variety of products. Also, see if any of the previous customers have written reviews about the bassinet company’s customer service. In the event that you have to make an exchange or return, you want to make sure that you’ll easily be able to navigate through the company’s returns department.

    Brand Availability
    Unless you’re purchasing your bassinet online, you might have a slightly limited choice as far as bassinet brands that are available in your area. Many stores carry a variety of popular brands, such as Doodlefish and Graco. However, some of the lesser known brands might be a bit more difficult to hunt down in your local stores. If you can’t find a product that you really want, you can always ask the store to order it for you. Many baby supply stores will be more than happy to order a special brand of bassinet for you, and you should be able to pick it up directly from the store.

    Brand Price
    Just like with many other products, bassinet brands have “brand names” that may be more expensive simply for the marketing name. In most cases, you’ll be able to easily discern the price tiers in bassinet brands, since many of them are more expensive. Remember – in some cases, a higher price might also mean higher quality. It’s important to do your research about specific bassinet brands before making your decision.

    Here’s a list of some of the bassinet brands that are currently on the market:

    1. Badget Basket
    2. Baby Doll
    3. Baby Delight
    4. Baby Jogger
    5. Burlington Basket
    6. Doodlefish
    7. Eddie Bauer
    8. Gus & Max
    9. Graco
    10. Hoohobbers
    11. Inglesina
    12. Kidsline
    13. Kolcraft
    14. Maddie Boo
    15. Picci
    16. Orbit
    17. Sleeping Partners
    18. Trend Lab
    19. Summer Infant
    20. Stokke
    21. Mountain Buggy
    22. Arm’s Reach
    23. Argington

  • Crib Mattress Pads

    Want to give your baby some extra comfort in their crib? Maybe you’ve considered purchasing a crib mattress pad for your baby. However, buyer beware! There are some safety precautions about crib mattress pads that could affect which one is best for your baby. Here’s a quick overview of crib mattress pads, which will help you decide which crib mattress pad is the safest option for your baby’s crib.

    Fitted Crib Mattress Pads

    It’s usually best to choose a fitted crib mattress pad for your baby’s crib. While free-floating mattress pads may be more convenient or less expensive, they can cause problems for your child. For example, some foam-top crib mattress pads simply sit on top of the mattress, and have a fitted sheet over them. The sheet alone isn’t enough to secure the mattress pad, especially if your baby moves around a lot. This could mean that the mattress pad could get shifted to one side, creating a gap between the pad and the side of the crib. If this happens, your baby could be at risk for suffocation or other breathing problems. With a fitted crib mattress pad, you don’t have to worry as much about the pad becoming shifted to either side. Also, fitted crib mattress pads usually are able to be tucked tight around the mattress, making the crib a safer environment for your baby.

    Types of Crib Mattress Pads

    There are several different types of crib mattress pads that you might have the option of purchasing. A few of these types are:

    Cloth Mattress Pads
    Cloth crib mattress pads are usually very simple and inexpensive. In most cases, they’re actually just a few layers of cloth that sits between the sheet and the crib mattress. Cloth crib mattress pads usually aren’t waterproof, though they are easily machine washable.

    Foam Mattress Pads
    Many parents like the comfort of a foam crib mattress pad. However, it’s important that a foam crib mattress pad for babies is still firm enough to keep the child from being at risk of suffocation. Some types of foam crib mattress pads are plush, and should only be used for babies that are of toddler age.

    Waterproof Mattress Pads
    If your mattress isn’t waterproof (or if you just want some extra protection in your baby’s crib) you can purchase a waterproof mattress pad. These mattress pads may simply be a waterproof barrier, or they may have absorbent material on top to help catch any moisture.

    Organic Mattress Pads
    If you’re worried about environmental toxins, you might want to purchase an organic crib mattress pad for your baby’s crib. Since organic mattresses can be expensive, many parents often go for an organic crib mattress pad instead. A truly organic crib mattress pad will be free of toxic chemicals, dyes and any toxic fabrics.

    Read More About Crib Mattress Pads

    Here’s a bit more info for you to read about crib mattress pads:

    1. Organic Crib Mattress Pads