If you are having a new baby, one of the most important things you’ll purchase is a baby crib. Your baby needs a comfortable and safe place to sleep, especially since babies spend so much time sleeping while they are young. There are many available options to choose from, which can make it tough to pick out a crib. Here is a closer look at some considerations to remember as you choose from the baby cribs available.

Keep Safety in Mind

First, you need to keep safety in mind as you look for the right crib. When you buy a crib, it should meet the minimum safety standards of the government. Of course, there are times when cribs are recalled for safety issues. Make sure you check crib recalls before buying so you don’t purchase or use one that has a problem. You should be looking for a crib that has a mattress that fits tightly to the frame, slats that are less than 2 3/8 inches apart, and you need to ensure there are not slats or hardware that are broken or missing.

Drop vs. Stationary Sides

As you are looking at cribs, you’ll find that they come with either drop sides or stationary sides. Many people like the drop sides because they make it easy to reach the baby. However, some think that there could be issues with safety. You may be better off to simply choose a crib with stationary sides.

Where to Purchase

You’ll want to consider where to purchase your crib as well. If you want a big selection, choose a mega store for babies. Smaller stores for babies usually only have a few brands to choose from. You may want to consider purchasing online, since you’ll have a wider selection. The only problem is that you can’t actually see and touch the product before you buy it.

Colors and Styles

Of course, you’ll want to keep color and style in mind as you are making your choice as well. Today you can find many different colors. Many cribs come in wood grain options, and you can choose the wood look that you purchase. Others come in colors, which you can choose to go along with the rest of the baby nursery décor in your nursery. Various styles can be chosen as well. Consider something in a country style or maybe a crib that is modern and sleek.

In the end, you’ll also need to consider your budget. Cribs vary in price, depending on the brand, the size, and more. To get a better deal, it may be a great idea to compare prices before making your purchase. Just make sure you get high quality. Sometimes spending a bit more is worth it to ensure you get a safe and quality crib for your baby.

Shown here: Baby Cribs: Natural Andersen Baby Crib

When you go to purchase a baby playpen today, you’ll quickly find that there are more features than ever to choose from. Of course, safety is essential, as is ease of use and easy cleanup, but there are many other great features that can make life a bit easier for you. Here is a look at some of the best features you’ll want when you purchase a playpen for your new little one.

Feature #1 – Fold Up Playpen

One of the best features you’ll definitely want is a fold up playpen. This allows you to fold up the playpen into a compact size that is easy to carry along with you. If you travel often, this is a great idea, since you can easily take it along and make sure your baby feels comfortable and at home.

Feature #2 – Wheels

Wheels are a great features you need to have when buying a baby play pen. This way you can easily take the playpen throughout your home. It allows you to move it easily with you when you go from room to room, and you can even take it outside so your baby can get fresh air.

Feature #3 – Changing Station

A changing station is a nice feature to have in a playpen as well. Usually this fits right on top of the playpen so you can easily change your baby right there. You don’t have to go to the nursery to change your baby – you can easily do it right there on the playpen.

Feature #4 – Canopy

Canopies are another excellent feature that can come in handy on a playpen. The canopy keeps the baby protected, which allows you to take the playpen and your baby outside. They’ll have plenty of protection from the sun while enjoying some fresh air.

Safety 1st Lexi Deluxe Baby Playpen shown here from Baby Cribs Plus (Free Shipping!)