Investment Baby Furniture - One Purchase Can Fit All

First, let me wish you and yours a Very Merry Christmas from Baby's Own Room.

Are you or someone you know having a baby in 2009? If so, let me give you something to think about while shopping for your baby's first room.

I am sure you have heard of investment dressing. You know, that is where you buy better pieces of clothing that are classic styles that you can keep around for more than one fashion season. Have you considered the same principle holds true when purchasing baby furniture. At first blush, that seems a bit silly as your baby is only small for a short while and then you move on to a toddler bed, a twin or full bed, etc. Each time purchasing a newer bigger bed and the dresser, nightstand or perhaps a desk.

Now you can purchase baby furniture with the same principle in mind - investment baby furniture. A lifetime bed, or convertible bed as they are sometimes called, is a crib that will convert to a toddler bed by removing one side and adding a guard rail. When your child is ready for a "big kid" bed, be it a twin, full or now even a queen, you purchase the coordinating rails and use the existing crib sides for head and foot board. You are using the same bed from infancy through college, if you wish.

There are whole room ensembles now created around a lifetime crib or bed. With the purchase of matching furniture pieces that are now available, such as the dressing bureau shown above, you will have your child's room purchased and ready for use, comfort and enjoyment for years to come.

Why is the dressing bureau so perfect? It serves double duty, multi tasking if you will, and in our world today it is important to have multipurpose items in our home. The six drawer dresser shown above becomes a changing table with the addition of a matching dressing kit or changing kit that can be attached to the dressing table for use during the diaper period a of child's life. When no longer needed, it is removed and stored.

The above six drawer dresser is from the Rose Valley Collection by Child Craft Industries. It is a new collection that celebrates the beautiful simplicity of mission design in a beautiful Abby Oak finish. It will be available for purchase in February, 2009. You can see the Rose Valley Lifetime Crib and matching pieces at Baby's Own Room.

The Gift of Rest for a Lifetime

Do you have a new baby coming soon? Do you have a baby ready to move into a toddler bed? Would you like to have a bed that will grow with baby through the years and have a one time expenditure? Have you considered a Lifetime Crib? Why not? Questions, questions. Every parent has to make these decisions when deciding on a bed for their child.

There are many things to consider when selecting a crib for a baby. The most important, of course, is safety. And, if you will scroll down through my blog posts you will find an article that addresses this particular issue. But, I know that you are also all about style and functionality. Frequently, new parents are not thinking much beyond the fact they need a crib for baby. With all of the excitement of a new arrival, the baby shower gifts and great advice from friends and family, they really don't step outside the moment and look ahead.

A Lifetime Crib is the perfect solution to take your child from infancy to youth. First, it is a crib with durability and ease of use. When your child reaches the point where he is ready for a toddler bed, with the turn of a few screws, and an addition of a guard rail, you have your toddler bed to use for several years. When you feel your child is ready, the sides become the head and foot board for your child's bed. You add the rail/slats set that is purchased separately, a new mattress and your child continues to sleep in the familiarity of the bed he has grown up with all his life. And, remember, the same mattress you purchase for baby's crib is the mattress for the toddler bed. Very functional, very useful, very practical.

To complete your room for baby and truly make it a lifetime purchase, you can purchase the matching single chest of drawers, or 6 drawer dresser (add a changing kit and this then becomes a changing table, later just your dresser), and a night stand, and you have a room that your child can use for life. There is even a hutch that sits on top of the 6 drawer dresser that is a book case. One purchase at the beginning and you don't have to think about it again.

Perhaps, you feel you can not afford to purchase all of these items right away. In today's economy not many young parents can. But, what you can do is choose a collection you like, purchase the crib and changing table, with drawers, and build your set from there by adding pieces later. Just be sure to choose a manufacturer that is well known and will be in business when you are ready to add pieces.

At Baby's Own Room, we sell Child Craft furniture. Child Craft has been furnishing babies rooms for over 50 years and offers many different collections to choose from. You can see some of these great offerings in our store Baby's Own Room. In about a month will be opening our furniture only store of the same name with complete collections to choose from. So save this name and consider a gift to baby this Christmas that will last a lifetime.

Merry Christmas from Baby's Own Room

Classic Yet Trendy - Think Black for Baby's Crib

Are you a trendy Mom and Dad? Have you been looking for the perfect crib in black for baby's room? Look no further than the Child Craft Watterson Lifetime Crib. Now you can have fashion and the quality offered in every Child Craft Crib.

I have been quite surprised at the number of young parents who have contacted Baby's Own Room looking for black cribs. To my delight, Child Craft has several of their cribs available in black. Sometimes, I think we forget that black is such a great basic color and is perfect for the Lifetime Crib as it converts to toddler and full bed with each growth stage of your child. Just about any color or style of bedding will be complemented by a black bed. So, if this is perhaps not something you may have initially thought of visit our store and check it out. Here are some of the great features this crib has to offer.

This simple yet elegant arch design crib is completely stationary, meaning there is no moving drop side mechanism to fumble with. It converts easily into a toddler bed with the removal of the front side assembly. • All necessary parts for conversion from a crib to a toddler bed are included. • Made of solid wood with non-toxic, baby safe Distressed Black finish. • Distressed Black finish has a reddish undertone where distressing occurs. • 2 position mattress height adjustment. (Crib mattress sold separately). • All assembly screws fit into metal bushings so you may safely convert this bed as many times as necessary without sacrificing structural integrity. • Compliant with all mandatory and voluntary standards including 16CFR 1508, ASTM-F1169, ASTM-F966 and ASTM-F1821. • JPMA certified. • There is no moving drop side mechanism . . . this makes crib sturdy and safe. • Dimensions (set up as crib): 46” H X 58” L X 30-3/4” W. • Weight: 80 pounds. • Assembly required. All hardware and assembly instructions included. • Bed can also be converted to a full size bed later. Full size bed rails are not included but are available separately when needed when baby has grown into a child and is ready to sleep in a full size bed.Available in Distressed Black, Onyx or Cherry finish. Rails to convert to full bed are sold separately. Guard rail for toddler bed is sold separately. PLEASE ALLOW 2-4 WEEKS FOR DELIVERY.

So, take a step out of the traditional crib thinking and check out the Watterson Black Crib by Child Craft at Baby's Own Room or if you know this is something you just gotta have you can Buy It Now.

After you have researched, shopped and purchased your crib, the next important item is a great mattress. There are many to choose from, a quick trip with Google will show you the large array available. There are the traditional coil or innerspring mattresses, or foam but the one crib mattress that is growing in popularity with parents is the organic style. They are growing in popularity too with us at Baby's Own Room and we feature Ecobaby from Pure-Rest Organics.

Pure-Rest and Ecobaby's standard innerspring crib mattress (see picture opposite) is the required 6" thick and meets all safety requirements set forth by the CPSC. Features an inner wool layer quilted to the organic cotton outer for natural flame retardantcy to meet federal guidelines. Inside is a 242 coil count spring system. The springs are not coated with any toxic oils. The organic cotton is long staple and hand-picked. The wool is sheared off of sheep who are healthy and organically raised . These high quality materials are what set Pure Rest mattresses apart from the less quality mattresses made from inferior wool. Most non-organic mattresses are made of PVC, polyester and foam. They are then doused with flame-retardant chemicals and PBDE's. These chemicals have been banned in many places.

Pure Rest only uses the Latex Green natural rubber cores. After many years of research, Pure Rest has found that these cores are the most natural in existence. No artificial vanillin (petrochemical) and no fillers as found in Talalay natural rubber cores. No benzene, toluene, or pthalates as found in many other Dunlop processed natural rubber. Pure Rest works hard to make sure their mattresses are toxin free and even the most chemically sensitive can easily enjoy these mattress lines

This mattress is just what parents need for a safe, durable sleeping surface for their baby at any age. Features European supple organic cotton outer. Flippable, these mattresses are recommended for youngsters 0-6 years. Pure Rest has been producing chemical free crib mattresses for 13 years.

You, as a parent, must make the final decision as to what type of crib mattress your baby, toddler or youngster will sleep on each night when you tuck him into bed. Whether you choose the traditional coil, foam or organic mattress, remember it is your responsibility to research your choices based on safety, necessity and affordability. If your baby or child has allergies or sensitivities to chemicals you may want to seriously consider the organic solution. And as always, remember it is a good idea to check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website for any important information on any baby item you may be looking to purchase or may already own. You can reach their site by following this link CPSC.

The Ecobaby Pure-Rest mattress featured here can be purchased at Babys Own Room, or you can Buy It Now.

Dressing Tables - Not Just for Convenience

When choosing a dressing table (or changing table if you prefer) safety must be your first concern. Make sure any dressing table you consider is sturdy and secure, no wobbly legs or movement side to side. If there is either of these, pass on such a purchase and keep looking. Look for a table with a fully enclosed top to help ensure your baby will not roll off. The changing pad should have fully adjustable straps and you should be sure to use them. Never, never, never, leave your child unattended on a dressing table.

A dressing table is one of the best investments you can make for your nursery. This will save you countless hours bending over a bed or some other flat surface while you dress or change your child. Typically, changing tables are approximately 3 1/2 feet tall which will put the child about waist level for most people. A good dressing table with have at least one drawer to use in putting items you use each day such as wipes, layette items, thermometer, etc. If you find a dressing table with a drawer and two shelves, you will have bought yourself a great deal of storage for all those diapers.

There are also dressers available with changing pads on top. These are an excellent idea as you can then remove the changing pad and use this piece of furniture as a dresser. You will find there is a great deal of difference in price range between a dresser with changing pad and a regular dressing table. That is a choice you need to make after looking at what is available and what is within your budget.

One of the dressing tables I really like and I sell in my store is shown above. It is available in 4 finishes and is from Child Craft Industries, one of the leading baby furniture manufacturers in the United States. This is the Rosette style dressing table, and, it is complete with fully enclosed changing area for extra safety and includes a changing pad with security strap and buckle. Table also includes 1 storage drawer with special “drawer stop” feature which will help keep all baby changing items within reach. 2 shelves provide additional storage are below drawer and can be used to hold blankets, baby bathtub or storage baskets. Assembly required. All necessary hardware and instructions are included. Available in Antique Vanilla, Matte White, Pine cone or Cherry. Set up size: 43 ½”H, 38 3/8” W, and 19 ¾” D.

You may purchase this dressing table at our store Baby's Own Room, or Buy It Now.

Your Baby Needs and Deserves a Safe Crib

One of the most important purchases you will make for your nursery is your crib. In our prior article we talked about buy the best crib you could afford within your budget. Your baby needs and deserves a safe crib, and a great crib. Now, it may be that your great crib will be a family heirloom, or a gently used crib from a friend or a thrift shop purchase. That is great, you have saved yourself money that can be used in another area of your nursery. Please be aware, however, that sometimes your used crib may have been the subject a safety recall, or just may not have all the safety features you would like. It is has been my experience and observation over the years that you frequently pay almost as much at a thrift store for a used crib as you do for a lower end new crib at one of the big box stores. Shopping and comparing is so important.

If you decide to purchase a new crib for your baby, there are several things to consider. The main issue, even more important than your theme, finish, color, etc., is safety. Is the crib you think you would like to have, safe. Here are some things you should look for, does your crib:

1. Meet or exceed all industry standards set by the Consumer Products Safety Commission?

2. Has it been approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials?

3. Has it been certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers’ Association?

4. Does it have a warranty? If so, how long is the warranty, is it a full or partial? What does it cover? Is it a manufacturer's warranty?

5. Has it ever been the subject of a recall?

Chances are if it is a brand new crib you will not have this problem; however, you can check on this or any other recall concerning children's products with the Consumer Products Safety Commission. To reach this website you can Click Here.

Please remember, this article is in no way intended to be an authority on crib buying. Its purpose is to give you some guidelines and points to consider when purchasing a crib that will be your precious baby's bed. In my store, Baby's Own Room , I sell Child Craft Cribs. Why? Because Child Craft Industries has been manufacturing and selling baby furniture for over 70 years. My own children slept in Child Craft cribs. They are an industry leader with a great reputation. The cribs are sturdy and made of quality products and meet all of the safety guidelines for the watchdog groups show in points 1, 2 and 3 above.

A great crib to consider is the Child Craft Lifetime Bed. This crib will convert to a toddler bed and then to a full bed as your child grows. It is available in many styles and finishes. You will see one fine example advertised on this page. For additional information or to purchase any of the fine Child Craft cribs, please visit Baby's Own Room.

Getting Started on Baby's Own Room

Hello, and Welcome to Baby's Own Room blog and link page. Here, you will find helpful information and products to assist you in setting up your precious little one's first room. Doesn't it seem from the moment the world finds out a wee one will be moving into your home that everyone has advice or something to sell you? You are bombarded with mail offers, catalogs, magazines, books, e-mails, and spam. You name it, you receive it in some form or fashion. If you are not a first time parent, you have figured out how to weed through it all and get what you need and/or want. But, if you are a first time parent you may be confounded by all that is presented to you.

Here, we will attempt to clear away some of the confusion and offer just plain tried and true facts on what you need and don't need to set up a space for your baby. Every parent wants to give their baby the very best they possibly can afford. But, there is a very natural tendency to overspend your budget and buy more than you or your baby truly need. Remember, your baby is small and his needs are basic. He or she needs, of course, feeding and diapering, but most of all your baby needs constant love and care from you. That said, what are some of the basics you should consider.

1. Space Available - do you have a room to dedicate to a nursery, or will your baby be sharing a room with you. This will certainly dictate how much furniture you buy. If sharing a room, you may want to buy only a crib and dressing table. Look for a dressing table with drawers to double as both a dresser and changing table. If you have a room to function as a nursery, you, of course, have more space and therefore, more options.

2. Budget - This is perhaps your most important item. Whether you have a large or small space to outfit for baby, set a budget within your means. It is all well and good to count on shower gifts and gifts after the baby is born, but for setting up your nursery, I say again, set a budget within your means.

3. Furniture - look for quality, well made, durable baby furniture. There are so many options available to you do not buy the first thing you see. Shop, shop, and shop some more. Look in your local stores, the big box stores such as Wal-Mart and K-Mart and other department stores, discount or otherwise. Visit local baby furniture specialty stores if there are any in your area. And, don't forget to surf the internet, there are many, many baby stores online, mine included. Look at what some of your friends might have, and research the safety features of the furniture items you see. Whatever choice you make, buy the best furniture available in the budget that you have set and you will not have any regrets. Buying quality baby furniture means it will be there for your first and your last baby.

In coming articles, we will talk about various furniture items you may need or want to purchase for your baby's room. For now, whether you are beginning or ending your search for baby furniture, I invite you to stop in see us at Baby's Own Room.