Becoming a mother is one of the most rewarding experiences in a woman’s life. It’s also one of the most stressful things you can go through, especially if you don't have the most supportive network or people to help advise you on things related to your baby as a first-time mother.
Buying the right crib is actually one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and it’s important to consider your options carefully. The market is flooded with so many different kinds that it can be hard to decipher what you and your baby need. This article focuses on the basics and will help you determine the kind of crib you need, and how to clean it.
The pros of a standard-sized crib
The standard-size crib is your best bet. These cribs are great for those on a budget since they’re essentially full-size cribs that give your baby plenty of room to grow into, so you won’t have to think about replacing them.
Also, your baby is bound to appreciate the extra space provided for play, while still remaining safe, as the crib can act as a playpen during the day.
The main thing to be aware of here is that you will need to have multiple mattresses set up so that you can lower the surface’s height as the baby starts to get older and is able to pull up into a standing position. Convertible cribs are another option to look into if you have a bigger budget.
Cleanliness
Now that you’ve zeroed in on the kind of crib you’d like to invest in, the next step to be aware of is cleaning and maintenance. One of the first questions to cross a new mom’s mind is “how many crib sheets do I need?” and “how often do I need to scrub the mattresses?”
Well, the answer to the first question really depends on how often you need to change the crib sheets. If there’s spit up, you’ll want to change the sheets every day, and you should have at least five-seven on hand per week. If the sheet stays relatively clean and you only need to switch them out once a week, then you can plan for two to three crib sheets.
Of course, you should always have a few extra to help clean up occasional messes. To answer the second question: it really depends on how many accidents your baby has. You should probably plan to clean the top mattress once a week, and everything else perhaps once a month.
Sterilization
No matter how often you clean your crib, and the attendant crib sheets or mattresses, you need to set aside some time to do in-depth sterilization of the sheets. Even with all your hard work, it might not be enough to get rid of all the dust and bacteria out there.
To make sure the microenvironment is perfectly safe for your baby, you will need to disinfect the mattress using baby-safe rubbing alcohol. Simply spray a fine mist directly onto the mattress and let it sit for a bit – no need to wipe it down since it will evaporate on its own.
When it comes to your baby, the most important thing is their health and safety. Being mindful about purchasing the right crib, while also making sure to do the upkeep properly and safely is one of the most important tasks young mothers will learn to undertake right away.
However, by keeping things simple and efficient, you’re bound to learn the ins and outs in no time.
