Twins - Double Treasure, Double Love

Wow! You are having Twins! I can only imagine your surprise when you were told you were expecting twins. While your mind reeled for a while on the impact this would bring to your life, you grappled with practicalities such as space, time and of course, money. I did not have twins, but they run in my family. In fact, I have one cousin with triplets and another with two sets of twins. All of these pregnancies occurred sans fertility drugs. I think with fertility drugs you accept this could be a possibility, but au natural! Yikes! Can you ever really be prepared?

I have sold baby furniture to couples who are having twins and they tell me after the shock wears off they get down to the business at hand and begin planning their course of action. Hopefully, you have a spare bedroom, if not, hopefully, you can afford to move. But, whether space is plentiful or at at a premium, the most important thing to consider is the crib.

You don't necessarily needto have two cribs right away, it is nice if you can, but not a crisis if you can't afford two at first. Some couples I have worked with buy just one crib to start as the babies are so small and are used to being together. Then as the babies grow they buy a second crib. Other couples have purchased two cribs right away. Either way is good, it just according to what you want and what you can afford. However, my advice to you is to purchase a lifetime crib that will convert to a toddler bed and then to a full bed as your children grow. Make one investment at the beginning and have a bed for years.

Another item to consider is a dresser, dressing bureau or chest of drawers. A dressing bureau will usually have six drawers and you may purchases an optional dressing kit which fits on the top of the dressing bureau as is a secured changing area for baby. This would eliminate the need for buying a separate changing table (unless you really want one), and can then be removed when your babies no longer need this type of amenity. Of course, you may also want a dressing bureau and a chest of drawers to provide ample storage area for children's' clothing. Again, no need to buy two of these items, one will do nicely.

If you find yourself being blessed with twins (or more) and are looking to furnish your babies' room with investment quality baby furniture, come over to Baby's Own Room where we feature the elegant quality of Child Craft Cribs and Dressing Bureaus. Child Craft has been providing families with quality, safety tested and affordable cribs for over 50 years.

So, we will see you there and Congratulations!

New and Coming Soon - Brook Bridge From Child Craft

Update - January, 2010 - Brook Bridge is Here Now! Come and see the Crib and matching furniture pieces at Baby's Own Room!

At Baby's Own Room we feature the quality and elegance of Child Craft Industries baby furniture. Child Craft is ever striving to bring young parents cribs that are safe and durable, yet stylish and classic. Watch for Brook Bridge coming in July. This great set is in a deep alder color and will bring a great look to baby's nursery at a price point you will not want to miss.

Keep checking in with us as Brook Bridge is due in July. The set will feature a Convertible Crib (converts to Toddler Bed with optional Toddler Bed Guard Rail), six drawer dresser, Armoire, night stand and 4 drawer chest for a complete room that will grow with your child. In the meantime, shop our other great cribs, dressers and bedding at Babys Own Room. See you there!

A Lifetime of Lyrics - Easy on the Wallet

In today's economic environment every parent is looking for the best value, especially when crib shopping for your baby. First, and most importantly you want a safe crib. But you also want quality, convenience and beauty all at great value pricing. You can have all of that with the Lyrics Lifetime Bed from Child Craft. Lyrics is on sale now at Baby's Own Room. Inspired by home décor from the French country dwellers, this Lifetime bed will look great in your baby’s room. Constructed from sold Aspen wood, this Lifetime bed is sure to become a cherished family heirloom. Here are more reasons you will want to take a closer look at this crib:

Lyrics has 4 stationary sides for extra durability and security and 4 position mattress height adjustment, and will convert from a crib to a toddler bed to a complete full size bed (including headboard and footboard). The only additional purchase needed to convert to full bed is are the full bed rails,(sold separately). Child Craft lifetime cribs meet or exceed all industry standards set by the Consumer Products Safety Commission, the American Society for Testing and Materials, and is certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers’ Association. Lyrics converts to daybed by removing the crib drop-side which will help baby transition from infant to toddler. For additional safety, you can purchase a toddler guard rail (sold separately). The Lyrics Lifetime Crib carries a limited 15 year warranty on hardware system and parts. Mattress sold separately.

Doesn't it just make good economic sense to make an initial investment that will take your child from infancy to college, rather than buying a new bed at each growth stage? Lyrics style and beautiful spice finish is timeless. Your child will never feel his bed is outdated.

If you would like to see more of Lyrics or other sensational Child Craft Lifetime Cribs, please visit us at Baby's Own Room.

Baby's Bed in a Bag Won't Break the Budget!

It won't be long until that day is here when we celebrate and honor our Mothers. I don't mean just our Mothers, which we do, of course, but all Mothers as it is truly the most honorable, and might I add sometimes seemingly thankless, task we ever undertake. I hope this banner will give you a reminder to not forget those women in your life who have molded you.

Perhaps, you are about to become a new mother, yourself. What an exciting time in your life this is for you. You are at once filled with joy and anticipation and fear and trepidation. What a whole new set of responsibilities you will have! Of course, your first concern is a healthy and well baby, then your next concern is providing a safe, secure environment for him or her (or one of each!). Along with that all new mommies (and daddies too) want to have an adorable nursery for their little one, but they want to do it on their budget. In today's economic environment that is paramount.

You always feel like your have been a good shopper when you purchase quality at a fair price and accomplish your task. When purchasing bedding for your little one, why not purchase everything as a set, in one bag, at one time, and be done. This way you will know everything matches the way you want and exact matching accessories are available to enhance your look. Just as we buy a "bed in a bag" for our own beds, you can do the same for your baby. At Baby's Own Room we have many "crib in a bag" sets to choose from such as the Noah's Ark set above.

Noah's Ark is a perfect set to buy because the theme can transition beyond the crib onto the toddler bed. This six piece set offers you a crib sheet, comforter, bumper pads with ties, bed skirt, valance and diaper stacker. Available accessories include a crib mobile, pillow and accompanying throw. This quality set is from designer, Jessica Breedlove and will last your child through the toddler stage.

So stop in to our store, Baby's Own Room and check out Noah's Ark and other crib bedding sets from Jessica Breedlove and Beansprout. Purchase quality at value prices and decorate your nursery within your budget. We also feature Child Craft baby furniture collections, Ecobaby organic mattresses and solid maple cribs. You can outfit your whole nursery in our store. See you over there!

Transitional, Trendy and Thrifty - Warm Honey Crib

UPDATE TO THIS POST - 4/10/09 - SOLD OUT!

We are all mindful of the tight economic times our country and in particular our families are facing. The newspapers are filled with grim reminders each day of job losses and the effect this is having on our society. At Baby's Own Room, we are trying to help parents provide a safe, secure sturdy, yet fashionable crib for their baby.

Child Craft has several new cribs, lifetime cribs and furniture collections that allow Baby's Own Room to offer parents the perfect opportunity to furnish their nursery without breaking their budget. One of these you will see here is part of the Warm Honey Collection.

This transitional style crib is constructed from selected hardwoods with inviting a lustrous Warm Honey Oak finish. The Crib has single drop side, 4 position mattress height adjustment and black, hooded casters for ease of movement. Casters lock into place. This Crib meets or exceeds all industry standards set be the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and is certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers’ Association (JPMA). The Warm Honey crib converts to daybed by removing the crib drop side which will help baby transition from infant to toddler. The Finish is lead free and non-toxic. Your new crib carries a limited 15 year warranty on hardware system and parts. See warranty card (packed with actual product) for more details. Mattress sold separately under Crib Accessories from our Home page. Set up size: 48-3/4” H by 53-1/2” L by 32-1/4” W.

Pair this Crib with the Warm Honey Dressing Chest or Warm Oak Dressing Table you will find in our store. Right now we have special pricing on the Warm Honey Oak Crib - a frugal $279.99 includes the cost of shipping to your door step. Buy the Crib and Warm Honey Dressing Chest as a set for $499.99. If you or someone you know is having a baby this year I invite you to shop now and save at Baby's Own Room..

Sale at Baby's Own Room!!

Baby's Own Room is having a Coupon Sale,through February 28, 2009, to celebrate the relocation of our store! Come and see all of the new items we have to offer including Child Craft complete furniture collections, organic mattresses and solid maple cribs from Ecobaby and fashion crib bedding to complete your nursery. The coupon is 10% off any purchase of $250.00 or more. Almost all of our furniture items offer free shipping! True bargains to be had as we are almost always priced below our competition. Coupon sale is good through February 28, 2009. Just enter the coupon "Save 10" at checkout. Baby's Own Room - value pricing, great customer service and we are open 24/7!

Solid, Sturdy and Beautiful - Maple Wood Crib

Is there anything more beautiful in furniture than real wood? Real solid wood, not composites, or wood veneers (all of which can be attractive and functional), but real hand rubbed wood. You know when you see it and feel it that it is all wood, it feels solid and secure. Would you like to have that same sturdy beauty in your baby's nursery? How about the Solid Pacific Coast Maple Crib from Ecobaby?

This crib is has a Hand rubbed finish with a special finish that includes beeswax and tung oil. The crib rungs are 2" apart for safety. The mattress spring can be used at four grow with me heights-as the baby grows, you lower the spring. The side of crib can easily be lowered for easy access to sleeping baby.

It is available in two styles, the Radius (shown) and the Arts & Crafts style. The only difference in the two is the top edge of the crib is rounded on the Radius and straight edged on the Arts & Crafts crib. It is simply a matter of preference. Some of the important features of this crib are:

*Standard full-size crib uses full-size crib mattress
*Meets all applicable Federal Regulations/ASTM Standards
*Tested for compliance by Detroit Testing Laboratories, an independent testing facility
*Three-step assembly
*Single-sided drop side with dual-action mechanism
*Changes to Youth Bed and Day Bed with available kits
*Mortise and Tenon construction
*Casters available
*Materials and workmanship guaranteed to be free from defects

Consider this beautiful convertible crib for years of restful sleep for your child and beauty for his or her room. I invite you to shop for this solid maple crib and other nursery furniture and bedding at Baby's Own Room. Or, if you just gotta have it, you may Buy It Now.

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.