Baby cribs can be very expensive depending on the model that you are looking at. Since the baby will only use it for a year or two it may not be worth it to invest in. Some people just can’t afford that expense so they look for used cribs. You want to make sure you are getting something very safe. Older models of cribs may have lead paint on them that is harmful to children. Check that the spacing between the slats isn’t going to be a risk for them either.

Not all used cribs out there though are old so don’t let that discourage you. Many parents want to get rid of them after their child moves into a toddler bed. This may be their last baby or they don’t have any place to store it. You can get a used crib that is in excellent condition from yard sales, consignment stores, and second hand shops. You can also look in the newspaper for such items for sale.

Chances are you may have a friend or family member with a used crib in storage that they will give to you, lend to you, or sale to you. This can be a great way to get the crib you need for a price you can afford. It is a good idea to go online and look at the safety rating for any used crib. This way you can find out if it is right for your baby. Register online for information to be sent to you about any recalls for that product as well.

It is a good idea to look at used cribs early in the pregnancy. This way if you discover any parts are missing you can contact the manufacturer to get them before your baby arrives. You will also have time to sand down the used crib and paint it if you want to. Being prepared for the baby with the crib is important as they will need it as soon as they come home.

You may find you need to buy a mattress though when you purchase a used crib. This is because the mattress that was in it can be transferred to the toddler bed for the child. Most parents will be using it. You can buy a new mattress for the crib though for about $30 so you won’t have to invest very much in it.

Portable Playpens

Everything changes when a parent has a baby or a toddler and that means being prepared no matter where you go. Many children in this age group still want to take naps at various times in the day. Carrying a portable playpen with you can really make that process easier for you. Take it along with you when you visit family or friends that don’t have young children. This way you don’t have to worry about your child falling off of a full sized bed.

Many parents find having a portable playpen when they stay at a motel is very convenient too. Everyone will get a better night of sleep because you won’t be worried about your baby. It is too risky to have them sleeping on a regular bed. Not all motel rooms have beds against the wall either so don’t take a risk.

It is a good idea to have a portable playpen at your home if you get visitors with young children. It will help everyone to feel more comfortable in your home. You will be confident that the young child is safe. It can also mean your guests will stay longer because they can visit while their child is resting comfortably.

Most portable playpens fold up very small so they aren’t going to take up very much room to store. They pop up very easily and most have a snapping action on the sides that hold it into place in a locked position. This means the playpen isn’t going to collapse with the child in it.

You can use portable playpens outdoors too. I have seen people using them at the drive in, while camping, and at sporting events. Some of them feature netting that goes over the top so that your child is guarded from mosquitoes and other insects as well. It can really be helpful to parents to have a portable playpen available.

There are many brands and models for you to choose from. You can pick up one that is well built as well as comfortable for about $60. This can be a great gift to give someone you know who is going to have a baby. They will get plenty of use out of it.