When the first-born appears in the family, you need to find a place for his crib, and in addition for a bunch of things: diapers with sliders, nappies, care products. So a children's chest of drawers will come in handy. It’s also a good idea to purchase a changing table that allows you to comfortably change your baby’s clothes. But not every apartment, especially a small one, can fit so much. In such cases, a transforming crib comes to the rescue, combining a sleeping place, a play area, and storage space. Moreover, such a bed grows with the child and often serves him until he is 12 years old. Next - about its pros and cons.
What does a transformable crib for newborns include?
Depending on the configuration, the crib may include:
- playpen;
- cradle;
- baby changing table;
- cabinets;
- under-bed box;
- bed for an older child;
- chair and table.
These beds are very convenient because they combine from two to eight different pieces of furniture. This saves space and, of course, money. Cribs come in different shapes. Recently, oval models of 8-in-1 transformers have been gaining popularity, as their transformation begins with a cradle for a newborn and ends with a chair and table for a preschooler. It is precisely this functionality that distinguishes a transforming crib from a regular one.
Advantages of a transforming crib
- These models allow you to increase the sleeping space for a growing baby. To do this, you simply need to disconnect the cradle and additional elements from the base, that is, the teenage bed. However, not every product has this function, so be careful when choosing.
- Many transforming cribs are equipped with changing tables, shelves, drawers, chests of drawers - all this does not have to be purchased separately, which gives good savings.
- Thanks to the additional equipment, you will be able to keep at hand everything you need for changing and swaddling your baby.
- Many more beds have built-in pendulums. Due to such mechanisms, motion sickness occurs when the baby moves. The cradle swings, but the rest of the structure remains motionless.
How does a transformable bed for newborns work?
Beds can be 6 in 1 or 4 in 1, and there are also models with up to eight elements. Depending on the configuration, in addition to the sleeping place, the product may include the following elements:
- baby changing table;
- chest of drawers and drawers;
- cradle;
- sofa (the bed is transformed in this way);
- playpen;
- table or chair.
An optional canopy can be offered.
There are actually quite a lot of transformation methods. Let's list some of the most common ones.
- Add-on changing table. In this case, the changing table, when folded, is vertically leaning against the end side from the outside. If necessary, it is raised and fixed in a horizontal position.
- With moving bottom. The base, if necessary, rises upward, resulting in a changing table.
- With a playpen. In this case, the floor of the crib moves, it goes down, the walls move slightly apart by adding additional elements.
- With the possibility of further use. Usually these are models with a chest of drawers or a wardrobe. If necessary, the chest of drawers can be removed to create an extended bed.
- A chair and table can be obtained by dividing the crib into two halves. At the same time, the base of each half is set to a certain level.
- The sofa can be obtained by removing one of the sides. In this case, the child will be able to rest in the crib during the day. This solution is suitable for older children.
Dimensions of a transformable crib
If standard classic cribs for newborns have a length of 1.2 or 1.25 m and a width of 0.6 or 0.65 m, then for many transformers they are different:
- For models with a chest of drawers with a standard bed (1.2 m by 0.6 m), the length depends on the size of the chest of drawers. Often it is 1.7-1.8 m - this is enough for a schoolchild and even a teenager. The width varies from 0.6 to 0.8 m.
- Cribs with retractable sides are 0.7 m wide and 1.4 m long.
- Oval cribs are usually about 1.3 m long and 0.75 m wide.
- Playpens are usually made of standard dimensions (1.2 m by 0.6 m).
Types of transformable beds
Currently, there are many types of transformable cribs.
- Sofa - bed.
This type incorporates a bed, which, when the front wall is removed, turns into a small sofa. Such models are good for growing children. They no longer need to sleep over the sides, and a cozy sofa can become an excellent bed for sleeping. This model has restrictions up to 3-4 years of age. Then a full-fledged sleeping place is required. But after using such a crib-sofa, you should not rush to get rid of it, as it can be an excellent addition to the interior of a child’s room.
- Bed - bed.
This type implies the possibility of removing two grilles at once, most often the side ones. This transformable crib adapts more easily to changes in the child’s growth. The service life is increased due to the fact that it is able to adapt even to a schoolchild, which allows parents to refrain from buying new furniture.
- Collapsible design.
The most common type of assembly of such beds. This transformable crib contains many functions: it has a changing table, shelves, cabinets, and a sleeping place. Over time, it is possible for components to become disconnected, and in turn, they begin to perform a different function. The changing table can easily turn into a desk, and the cabinets into a bedside table.
- Chest of drawers - bed.
It combines 2 furniture components - a comfortable bed and a cabinet in which you can put everything you need for your child.
- Bed with a pendulum.
This mechanism allows the structure to swing at full speed, lulling the child to sleep with one hand push. This crib has specialized legs that do not spoil the floor surface. The sensitivity of the pendulum structure is so high that the pendulum reacts to the slightest movement of a sleeping person, activating the movement mechanism. Some pendulum beds respond to crying.
- Changing table + chest of drawers + baby bed.
The model belongs to multifunctional designs. Thanks to this design, it is possible to change clothes or change a diaper right at the baby's bed.
- Round baby crib.
As the child grows, this crib turns into an oval one. Suitable for use up to 5 years of age. This type provides lasting protection from injury, as it has no sharp corners and can be transformed into a full-fledged bed, sofa and even table.
- Children's bed with two tiers.
Designed for older children, from three years old. This crib will be an excellent choice if there are two children in the family and there is only enough space for one bed.
The transformer is very ergonomic (the area of the assembled set is 180*70 cm) and transforms into 4 full-fledged interior items.
Another undeniable advantage of the Transformer bed is that it can easily be transformed into two single beds and vice versa - this is very convenient.
Small removable crib
The basic element of furniture is the crib for newborns. Its structure is quite simple - sides and a base. The sides are made of high-quality material and often have silicone linings that provide protection from damage. On some models, the front side can be removed.
The base is made of birch lamellas, which makes the furniture environmentally friendly. The mattress is also well ventilated, which minimizes the risk of mold. It makes sense to choose an option with the ability to change the height of the base. This allows you to use the furniture most conveniently for your baby, regardless of his age. For a newborn, the maximum height is set, which makes it easy to pick him up. As the baby grows, the base moves down. As a result, the child will definitely “not run away.”
All modern cribs must have a pendulum. This mechanism allows you to effectively rock the baby. When choosing, you need to take into account that pendulum mechanisms are different:
- longitudinal - movement occurs along the long side of the crib;
- transverse - such furniture swings along the narrow side;
- universal - you can change the direction of movement.
The pendulum mechanism must be equipped with a lock. This prevents the crib from rocking when not required.
Cabinet-changing table
A transforming bed for newborns with a changing table implies the presence of a cabinet on which the changing table is directly placed.
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The base of the cabinet is the crib frame. The cabinet itself consists of several drawers, they are quite voluminous. Typically 3 to 6 boxes are used. Inside you can fit almost all the things your baby needs.
There is a changing table on the top of the cabinet. It is a tabletop with limiters. The optimal width is 50 centimeters; the length of the table is 60–90 centimeters. This is quite enough for swaddling a baby.
Be sure to purchase a special mattress for the changing table.
When choosing furniture, pay attention to fittings, especially drawer handles. They should be made of soft plastic or covered with a rubberized material. This solution will help you conveniently open the storage space if your hands are dirty, but you need to get a napkin or other thing.
A large bed
A transforming bed is modular children's furniture. In many cases, parents do not have the opportunity to buy a new bed for their older child; it makes sense to choose a transforming bed for newborns with the ability to increase the sleeping space. Allows the furniture to be used until the child reaches 10 years of age.
To transform the crib, the cabinet is removed, and the front barrier is also dismantled. This allows you to get a comfortable sleeping place. If the bed model involves changing the height of the base, you need to align the position of all elements.
The width of the sleeping place is 60 centimeters, which is more than enough for a newborn child; for an older child, this size is also quite comfortable. When unfolded, the bed reaches a length of 190 centimeters. This is enough even for a tall child.
Some models allow you to increase the width of the bed.
It is important to choose the right base. These cribs are made with a base of slats. The slats are made from birch, the optimal width of one plank is 50–53 millimeters. There should be 15–18 slats for the entire bed. It can be rack type or orthopedic.
In rare cases, a solid base is used. It is a single sheet of plywood. The main disadvantage of this option is the lack of ventilation of the mattress, which can lead to the formation of fungus and mold.
Most crib models have storage space under the base. Usually boxes are used. There are two types of storage systems.
- Roll-out. In this case, the drawers are installed on wheels and can be rolled out from under the bed if necessary.
- On the guides. The boxes move along guide rails. The advantage of this option is the ability to move the bed without much difficulty.
Choosing the right transformable crib for your child will ensure healthy sleep. Parents receive multifunctional furniture that lasts a long time without losing its performance.
Dresser
This design is a convenient combination: a place to sleep and storage for children's things.
Sofa
This bed has an interesting property - it easily turns into a sofa. Such models are convenient for children who have grown up, since they no longer need sides.
The bed is intended for children no older than four years. However, after the child grows out of such a crib, it can be left in the room, but as a piece of furniture.
Pendulum bed
Thanks to this bed, you can easily rock your baby to sleep. One push is enough for this. The pendulum mechanism is designed in such a way that when there is movement in the bed, it begins to sway slightly, thereby lulling the baby to sleep.
An additional advantage of this transformer is its special legs that do not harm the parquet.
Opinions differ regarding the pendulum. Some people prefer not to accustom their child to motion sickness, but for others this is a real way out of the situation. So it's up to you to decide here. The pendulum mechanism must have a locking mode, and in some models it is even removable. You also need to pay attention to this.
There are two types of motion sickness mechanisms: pendulum and runners. Skids are curved plates that are installed mainly on cradles. But you can also find them on beds. Later, the runners are fixed or replaced with stable legs. The pendulum is the mechanism on which the crib is attached. Depending on the structure, the pendulum can swing longitudinally, crosswise or in both directions. When buying such a crib, keep in mind that you need to leave a distance of at least 10 cm from it in the swinging directions - they cannot be placed close to the walls.
“Transformer” round shape
This crib is characterized by lengthening and transformation into a full-fledged sleeping place. As it increases, the corners are rounded - this protects the child from injury.
That is why the oval shape of a transforming bed is considered the safest.
Design options
Chest of drawers or wardrobe
A transformable crib with a chest of drawers or a wardrobe is a piece of furniture of a modular type, with a combination of two or more elements. The position of the chest of drawers can be changed by placing it on the left or right side of the crib. In the lower part that unites them, there is often a full-length drawer. When the baby grows up, the bars are removed from the crib and the chest of drawers is removed, increasing the length of the bed.
The good thing about the design is that you don’t need to think about where your grown-up son (or daughter) will sleep. The savings are obvious. In addition, it allows you to diversify the environment. But the fact that the height of the sleeping place usually cannot be varied is not very convenient.
Children's transforming bed with chest of drawers (photo)
Transformable bed with pendulum
The pendulum-type system is a useful invention that allows you to lull a baby to sleep without extra effort. It is enough to move the crib a little, and the pendulum starts. And it can also work even when the baby is restlessly tossing and turning and trying to wake up. There are models that turn on from the sound of crying.
Transformable children's beds with a pendulum may not have additional accessories and can last up to three years. When the bottom is lowered, they turn into a playpen. If there are drawers under the pendulum system, they can then be removed and the level of the sleeping bed can be changed. Such models can be used for up to five years. Well, cribs with a removable chest of drawers and a pendulum will last up to twelve years.
Children's transforming bed with chest of drawers and pendulum (photo)
The pendulum system can be built on silent bearings or on wooden planks. The first option is preferable, since the wood may creak as it wears out. The mechanism is equipped with locks that, if necessary, will make the crib stable. Note that models with pendulums are more stable than those with runners. And they don't damage the floor.
There are two types of such systems: longitudinal and transverse.
Some experts argue that longitudinal rocking is more beneficial for infants, as it is more natural. But this is a controversial issue - after all, our ancestors for hundreds of years rocked children in cradles exactly across. In any case, keep in mind that you need to leave room for the pendulum so that the crib does not hit the wall.
Dresser and changing table
The simplest models have a folding changing table attached to one of the backrests. In some cases, it can be transformed into an extension of the sleeping area. It is important that the fastening is sufficiently reliable - check this before purchasing.
Well, if you have a chest of drawers, then why not equip its upper part with a changing device? This is what many manufacturers do, equipping the chest of drawers with convenient guards (this is very important for the safety of the baby).
Transformable crib with changing table
Chest of drawers and workplace
Some cribs, when transformed, are capable of even greater miracles. There are models of transformable children's beds that allow you to build a comfortable table for an older child, resting on the top of a chest of drawers removed from the bed. The second support will be the lattice wall, which is no longer needed. And next to it we’ll put a drawing board (formerly the back wall of the crib).
Transformable bed into a workplace
There is no doubt about the practicality of such a design. The only downside sometimes is that the table turns out to be too small.
Oval transformable baby crib
These models are extremely elegant - smooth, rounded shapes look very stylish. In addition, the absolute absence of sharp corners increases the safety of the product, and the baby inside is very comfortable. And such a crib takes up less space than a rectangular one.
But this is not all the advantages of such structures. They are also very deft at transforming. A round transformable crib can become a cradle, a round playpen, a small or large (if you move the walls apart) oval crib, a sofa, armchairs with a table. Thanks to its variety, it will never get boring.
Oval transformable crib (photo)
Transformable bed Ikea
The Swedish manufacturer loves transformers - he has many collections based on the modular type, where products are easy to combine and combine with each other. As for cribs for babies, these from this manufacturer are designed for up to three years and have a bottom adjustment in three positions. Stuva models are equipped with drawers at the bottom.
But for slightly older children (from one year old), Ikea offers to buy transforming cribs that extend in length and grow with the child (for example, models Sundvik, Minnen, Trugen). Many are equipped with a low safety guard (this can be purchased separately). And Cure's crib with a ladder has two sides: for the little one they arrange a sleeping place below, and later, turning the bed over, they transfer the child to the second floor.
Transformable children's bed from Ikea (photo)
Playpen bed
The design of this crib uses an aluminum folding base, as well as fabric and mesh. The bottom can usually be installed in two positions, and there are wheels that can be locked if necessary. The lightweight playpen folds up quickly, much like an umbrella, turning into a bag, and quite compact at that.
It is very convenient to take such a product with you to the dacha or on a trip, but sleeping in it all the time is not very useful for a baby. After all, the materials used here are mainly synthetic, and the folding bottom is not very smooth. And it’s a bit stuffy for the little one inside. Therefore, it is better to buy a transformable children's bed in the form of a playpen in addition to a regular crib. If, of course, there is a possibility and necessity.
Example of a functional children's transforming bed (video):
What to look for when purchasing?
Transformable beds for newborns should be safe and comfortable. Everyone knows this. But what exactly is hidden behind these words is sometimes difficult to understand.
Product sizes
A standard children's bed has dimensions of 120x60 cm. Transformers are distinguished by the fact that some of the cribs turn into cradles, and some, on the contrary, can be unfolded as the child grows. Such a sleeping place “for growth” is used up to 7-10 years, depending on the individual development of the child.
Choose cribs of standard sizes so that there are no problems with replacing the mattress and buying bed linen.
Materials for children's furniture
The beds are made from:
- wood
, a reliable natural material. The most durable beds are made from beech. Birch and pine are cheaper and slightly less reliable. When purchasing, make sure that there are no cracks in the wood - this indicates a violation of the drying conditions during manufacturing and may affect further use. - Chipboard
. Today it is one of the materials that reduce the cost of furniture. Laminated chipboards are safe. But they have a small disadvantage - they are heavy. Assembling and disassembling furniture made from chipboard is quite a labor-intensive task. - metal
_ Cribs made from metal can last forever. But their features are high price and heavy weight. In addition, metal beds do not differ in design refinements. A beautiful appearance is given by textile products: sides, pockets, aprons.
And a few more tips
In addition to all the above advantages, a transformable crib can be harmoniously located in various interior directions.
The variety of design approaches to the manufacture of this type of furniture helps you choose a model for any interior style. And also assemble a modular type, finally giving completeness to the interior. An innovative option with smart storage systems will allow you to harmoniously distribute everything you need for your baby.
Equipped with a pendulum swing mechanism and natural wooden fencing.
Edged with plastic shockproof PVC edges, which will protect the edges of the lid from chips, and the baby’s body from scratches and cuts.
You can get lost in the variety of today's choices. So what criteria should you pay attention to when choosing new furniture, so as not to be disappointed in the quality and maintain your health?
- The surface of the furniture should be free of defects and dirt.
- It is necessary to check the serviceability of the design directly in the store.
- All small parts, screws, fastenings must be inaccessible to the baby to avoid injury.
- When purchasing a product in a store, new parents have the right to request an accompanying sheet, which indicates all the components used in production.
- It is advisable that children's furniture be made in pastel colors, as bright colors can irritate the eyes and overly excite.
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A spacious bedside table, the lid of which is fenced with sides for comfortable and safe changing of the baby.
Choosing a crib is an important and crucial moment in the life of every parent. It will ensure full growth of the child and promote healthy sleep. And, as you know, a child’s healthy sleep is the key to his good mood and peace of mind for his parents.
The baby bassinet is designed so that an older baby who is ready to sleep on a large bed will serve as an excellent desk.
Equipment - what elements does the round transformable bed consist of?
To choose a suitable bed, along with the design of structural elements, you should take into account the parameters of materials for manufacturing and decorative components. We must not forget about the child’s preferences, especially if the furniture is designed for long-term use.
A crib must first of all be safe, so it includes structural elements that must meet the individual needs of the child. The width between the rods must be taken into account, which should not exceed 6 cm.
Types of bed frame:
- Solid arcs connected by a single semicircle.
- Quarter circles fastened together.
The first option is stronger and more reliable. This design is easy to assemble and transform. The frame is strengthened using a connecting strip (tsar), which is located in the lower part of the semi-cylinders. The child can frolic, move and even jump inside; the frame can easily withstand such loads.
Additional structural elements:
- Wheels with locks allow you to move the crib.
- The pendulum mechanism is designed to rock a child.
- The box under the crib is used as a place to store baby things.
- Covers on the sides made of silicone, plastic or natural fabric will protect the child from injury.
- The bottom height adjustment system is designed to change the position of the bed base.
- A removable partition will allow you to place the crib next to your parents' sleeping area.
A high-quality round bed for newborns has a durable and stable design, in which each part performs a specific function. Additionally, a multi-stage base height adjustment system, wheels and an extension are installed to transform the cradle into a full-fledged oval crib.
Equipment options:
- 3 in 1 consists of a cradle, changing table and playpen. Transformable by moving the base of the bed along the fixed side walls. Suitable for children up to 1 year.
- 5 in 1 transforms into an oval bed. The structure can be turned into a comfortable sofa by removing one of the side walls. The furniture is suitable for a child aged 23 years.
- 6 in 1 turns into a changing table, sofa, play area and large bed for a preschool child. This furniture can be converted into a table with two chairs.
- 8 in 1 has a built-in pendulum system for rocking children to sleep.
Standard crib sizes are about 90 cm in diameter for a round cradle and 125x75 cm for an oval bed. Some models suggest the possibility of expanding the sleeping area up to 160x90 cm. The height of the sides is adjusted by parents.
Materials for the manufacture of children's furniture must be natural and environmentally friendly. Manufacturers use solid birch or beech of the highest grade. Additionally, the frame is covered with hypoallergenic paints and varnishes and reinforced with metal fasteners.
Cabinet-changing table
A transforming bed for newborns with a changing table implies the presence of a cabinet on which the changing table is directly placed.
The base of the cabinet is the crib frame. The cabinet itself consists of several drawers, they are quite voluminous. Typically 3 to 6 boxes are used. Inside you can fit almost all the things your baby needs.
There is a changing table on the top of the cabinet. It is a tabletop with limiters. The optimal width is 50 centimeters; the length of the table is 60–90 centimeters. This is quite enough for swaddling a baby.
Be sure to purchase a special mattress for the changing table.
When choosing furniture, pay attention to fittings, especially drawer handles. They should be made of soft plastic or covered with a rubberized material. This solution will help you conveniently open the storage space if your hands are dirty, but you need to get a napkin or other thing.
What transformation options does a round crib have?
A round bed has no corners that could cause injury. The child here feels protected, as if in the mother’s womb. Manufacturers include instructions with the bed, allowing parents to independently choose the optimal furniture conversion mode.
Popular options for transforming a 6-in-1 bed:
- A round-shaped cradle for a newborn with a lowering base for a sleeping place. By moving the bottom to the upper position, you can get a full-fledged changing table. This bed option is designed for children aged 0 to 6 months. The size of the sleeping place is from 70 to 100 cm in diameter. A canopy can be installed above the cradle.
- Spacious oval children's bed for babies up to 3 years old. Due to additional parts, the sleeping area can be expanded up to 120 cm in length. The width depends on the diameter of the cradle, that is, it ranges from 70 to 90 cm. The height of the berth is adjustable, and the guards can be removed if necessary.
- A spacious playpen can be obtained by moving the base of the berth to the lower position. The crib becomes a safe play space.
- The children's sofa, which the structure turns into after dismantling one of the side rails, will allow the child to rest during the day. The width of the seat depends on the size of the bed (120-160 cm). For additional comfort, it is recommended to lean several pillows against the backrest.
- Two armchairs and a table are formed by detaching the central crossbar and the side parts. Each chair is 70-90 cm wide and 35-45 cm deep and can support a weight of up to 90 kg.
- An oval bed for children from 3 to 9 years old can be obtained by expanding the central crossbar. The width of the bed remains the same, and the length can reach 140-165 cm.
The base is surrounded by bumpers on all sides, which protect the child from falling out of the bed. During installation and unfolding, you may need a small set of tools to tighten and remove bolts.
Types of convertible cribs
Currently, the furniture industry has mastered the production of several categories of transformable beds, differing in purpose, design and number of functions performed.
As a rule, a crib-chest or wardrobe belongs to sectional (modular) furniture. In most cases, both of these furniture structures are installed back to back, but thanks to quick-release fasteners, parents can always turn the transformable product into two separate sections, placing it in different places in the nursery.
In furniture intended for newborn children, the top plane of the chest of drawers is often used as a changing table.
The advantages of these models include:
- the possibility of “right-left” installation of the chest of drawers relative to the bed base;
- variety of shapes, sizes and designs;
- difference in the number and capacity of boxes and pallets;
- when there is no longer a need for a changing area, it is used to place various baby accessories and baby care products.
Pendulum models are rightfully considered an innovative novelty in furniture design. Thanks to the special design of the legs (suspensions, roller supports), a tired mother can rock the sleeping place once, and by inertia it will make oscillatory movements, rocking the child. The advantages of pendulum structures include:
- sensitivity of operation - the pendulum mechanism begins to work at the slightest touch of an adult to the fence or the headboard of a child's bed.
- The use of models with silent bearings ensures long-term trouble-free operation of the product, however, the cost of these cribs is quite high;
- Sleeping places with a rack pendulum mechanism have less durability; over time, squeaks appear in the joints of structural elements, disturbing the baby, but the price indicators of these samples are at a lower level;
- Under the swinging frame, pendulum models are usually equipped with a drawer for bed linen, and if there is an attached (modular, sectional) wardrobe or chest of drawers, they are equipped with drawers and are equipped with a changing table;
- Most pendulum beds have locks that turn swinging sleeping furniture into regular furniture, eliminating damage to the floor covering.
Flaws
- Although the length of the bed can be increased as the child grows, the width cannot be changed (it is on average 60 cm). At 4-5 years old, the baby will already feel a little cramped. Choosing a mattress will also not be so easy due to the non-standard size of the bed.
- Keep in mind that the shelves and chest of drawers in almost all models are small; you won’t be able to put a large number of things there.
- The design of the transformer is heavy, so cleaning underneath it is not easy. If a child inadvertently throws something under the crib, it will also be difficult to get this item out.
- Many mothers complain that some models have changing tables that are too high, which makes them uncomfortable to use. If you are short, you should especially pay attention to this nuance.
A transforming bed is a beautiful piece of furniture that also has good functionality. If you notice more advantages than disadvantages in such a model, remember in the store: this is a purchase for a baby. When choosing a crib, special attention should be paid to assessing the quality and safety of the design.
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Materials
Round cribs are usually made from natural materials. Wood manufacturers usually choose birch, aspen or beech. Pine is also used, but it breaks down faster - it is not as dense. Paints are only non-toxic, specially made for children's furniture.
A round bed can consist of the following elements:
- Solid half-arches;
- Quarter circles.
The first option is more reliable - it does not have two connecting seams, which makes the structure stronger. The second option is cheaper.
Functionality
For a newborn, a small round bed is better than a large classic one, according to manufacturers. The small size of the bed reminds of the most measured time of the baby - in the womb. This means that the baby’s sleep will be calmer and he will feel more protected.
This bed itself is not durable. Babies are growing quickly, they will not have enough space. In order to be able to use the sleeping place longer, the crib can be extended and its bottom can be lowered as needed, thereby increasing its service life. How long it can last depends on the modification.
The baby's cradle is already too small
Dimensions
A round transformable crib for newborns usually has a bed diameter of 75 cm. This is an average figure, it may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. The enlarged sleeping area becomes approximately 125x75 cm.
Interesting. There can be only one mattress: if it is a transformer, then an extension part for a larger bed is attached to the small round one (for a cradle). You can buy two different, separate mattresses.
Available in oval or semicircular
When a round bed for newborns grows after its owner, it becomes oval. Extension sides are inserted between the two semicircles, new slats are added to the bottom, and a new mattress is placed - the sleeping bed for an older child is ready. Moreover, at this moment you can lower the bottom a little lower so that the baby, who is learning to sit down, cannot fall out.
There is no semicircular bed. Experience shows that it is impractical. However, the seats of chairs can be semicircular, which can be made from a bed later (more on all the transformation possibilities below).
What kind of mattresses come with round transformable cribs?
Three mattresses can be supplied with the bed, which can be equipped with a cradle, a standard and a large oval transformable bed. For children, mattresses filled with coconut coir and latex foam are suitable. They perfectly support the baby's body. It is better to buy covers that are removable, since the baby often gets the sleeping area dirty. When purchasing bedding, you should give preference to natural fabrics. The best solution would be to purchase a cotton cover, but you can use high-quality wool as a replacement.
The mattress is not only environmentally friendly, but also has amazing orthopedic properties. The base with ventilation holes ensures optimal air circulation in the sleeping area. When using the bed as a table, playpen or chairs, the mattress is removed.
Material of manufacture
Transformable beds for newborns and older children are made from several types of material:
- wood - a wooden base is a material that is used for the production of these products quite often. Typically, durable types of wood are used that have a long service life;
- metal base - many products use metal as a base. The metal base has high strength and wear resistance;
- combined - both wood and metal are used as this base. The quality is strong and durable.
Wooden
With metal base
What additional features are equipped with round models of transformable children's beds?
Additionally, the oval bed for newborns is equipped with decorative elements, including soft sides and pillows. In advanced furniture models, a canopy and a motion sickness system are additionally installed. A canopy over the bed helps protect the baby from drafts, sunlight and dust. Complete with children's furniture, a canopy in the form of a “crown” design is used, covering the cradle with a translucent canvas or partially covering the sleeping area of a regular bed.
The pendulum mechanism is adapted for comfortable rocking of the child. The transverse pendulum swings the crib from side to side, while the longitudinal mechanism moves the berth from the head to the foot. The second option is preferable. The cradle, due to its round shape, supports both mechanisms.
Small removable crib
The basic element of furniture is the crib for newborns. Its structure is quite simple - sides and a base. The sides are made of high-quality material and often have silicone linings that provide protection from damage. On some models, the front side can be removed.
The base is made of birch lamellas, which makes the furniture environmentally friendly. The mattress is also well ventilated, which minimizes the risk of mold. It makes sense to choose an option with the ability to change the height of the base. This allows you to use the furniture most conveniently for your baby, regardless of his age. For a newborn, the maximum height is set, which makes it easy to pick him up. As the baby grows, the base moves down. As a result, the child will definitely “not run away.”
All modern cribs must have a pendulum. This mechanism allows you to effectively rock the baby. When choosing, you need to take into account that pendulum mechanisms are different:
- longitudinal - movement occurs along the long side of the crib;
- transverse - such furniture swings along the narrow side;
- universal - you can change the direction of movement.
The pendulum mechanism must be equipped with a lock. This prevents the crib from rocking when not required.
Pros and cons of a round crib
DIY crib bumpers for newborns
Every day there are more and more mothers who give their preference to round and oval beds. Here's what they like:
- No corners. The coordination of the baby's movements leaves much to be desired. He may fall; hitting a corner (especially with his head) can cause injury. In addition, corners are a source of creaks and loosening. Therefore, a round cradle is safer and more comfortable.
- Mobility. A round baby bed is usually equipped with wheels. Thanks to this, as well as its compact and lightweight design, you can easily move it around the house with you.
- Beauty. Many mothers choose this first piece of furniture for their baby precisely because of its stylish design. The most popular color is white, which is suitable for both girls and boys. Beige shades and dark tones are used less often. Very rarely – bright colors.
Design of a nursery with a white cradle
- Long lifespan. This indicator depends on the possibilities of transformation - from 4 to 12 years.
- Space saving. For the first six months of a baby’s life, its bed is more compact and will fit even in a small corner.
- Convenience. You can approach the bed from any side, place it along the wall, diagonally from the corner, whatever you like. In addition, it is more convenient for a little person to view the world from it.
- Baby's comfort. A small cradle is considered the best option for a newborn. She reminds him of his mother's womb and gives him a feeling of security.
Such transforming beds have disadvantages:
- No drawers. The design usually does not provide for them. The maximum that can be installed is a pendulum system for the cradle.
- Price. As a rule, such furniture is more expensive than classic options.
- Several mattresses. One, as in a standard rectangular bed, is no longer enough. You need to buy either two, or a transformer, this will also be more expensive.