Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery however, choosing the crib is one of the most crucial decisions. It doesn't matter what style of slats, mattress height or the ability to convert, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their development and health.
Remember that nails and bolts may wiggle loose over time, so make sure you check your crib hardware regularly. Be sure to avoid placing your crib near curtains or window blinds that hang down, which could present a risk of strangulation for your baby.
Size
When shopping for a crib, size is an important aspect. tots and cots should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, yet small enough that you can safely reach your child to listen to them. It should also be sturdy enough to stand up to the wear and tear of regular use.
The majority of cribs are constructed of metal or wood and come with side panels that are slatted. These features allow caregivers to see the baby from various angles and also encourage airflow. Cribs are utilized from birth until the child is approximately two years of age, at which point they have to be moved to a toddler bed.
Most standard cribs have a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns. The highest setting is ideal for babies who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the inside of your crib to make sure that the mattress fits because the slatted style of a lot of cribs leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Manufacturers offer mattresses and cribs that aren't standard sizes, but comply with the same safety standards. These include portable infant beds, bassinets and play yards. These cribs often have mesh or rigid sides, and are usually smaller than cribs that are full-size.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size if you decide to purchase a crib that isn't standard. There may be specific specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also important to be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure it's not more than 1 inch. This is the maximum safe distance.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bedding from spills and accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that stops allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop-sides, be aware that they've been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and were banned in the US as of. Even if you decide to purchase a crib with a drop-side or receive one as a hand-me-down ensure that you get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to get out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is the most secure place for your child. It's not just an area for rest but also a place where you can see and hold them frequently. There are a variety of crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all have to meet certain safety requirements. These standards are laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you put your child in the crib ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, take out any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any pillows or blankets inside the crib; these can cause death by suffocation. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested cribs should comply with the formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be tested to determine if they are in conformity. The CPSC has determined that, even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is appropriate to insist on compliance with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that the requirement that fasteners are tightened again between dynamic tests should be added to the crib standard that is being developed. We strongly disagree with this idea. The shake test and vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and accelerate abuse of cribs. Loose screw is the second most frequent cause of crib fatalities.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident records. These data show that the most frequently cited hazards associated with cribs are drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these issues in the new rulemaking process and to incorporate the performance standards that are currently included in the existing mandatory standard, with reference. Incorporation by reference is the most effective way to ensure that the safety of cribs is ensured in a uniform and effective way.
Style
Designing your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding experience. The crib is the focal feature of any nursery, so it is important to select one that fits your style and complements its decor. There are many stylish cribs available regardless of whether you're looking for something modern and minimalist or traditional. You can find options in every price range, from the cheapest to upscale. Make sure the crib you choose has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a tiny bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It is constructed from sturdy materials like wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, however they provide more functions for your child's early years.
There are a variety of types of cribs on the market, however they all must meet strict safety standards. For example the crib slats need to not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's roughly the width of a soda can) and you should not use decorative cutouts or shapes in the footboard or headboard.
The mattress should also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants legs or arms to get caught in. A lot of cribs have bars for stabilization that help keep the mattress in position. If your crib doesn't include stabilizer bars, you will need to purchase an additional mattress pad for support.
A mattress that is low-level is another advantage of a good crib that prevents toddlers from climbing the crib's edge. It's a great feature for parents with smaller children or rooms with limited space Be sure to measure the mattress's height prior to you make your purchase. The corner of the majority of mattresses will list the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
Consider purchasing an adjustable crib if you would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be converted into toddler beds as well as a daybed or a bed that is full size. A few of the cribs on our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with conversion kits included. The rest will require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced at hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib for instance, is priced less than $200 and has been 5 stars rated by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a profile that is medium height, making it simple to get your child inside and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another budget-friendly crib. It is simple to put together and folds up in an hour. It can be used inside or outside, on a patio or deck. It is suitable for babies weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however because your baby will outgrow it in about six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that can be used for the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. Although they're more expensive than a standard crib, they are also smaller and easy to move around. They're only a temporary sleep solution for your baby and they will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that can be adjusted into four different positions, based on your baby's growth. It should be low enough to allow you to reach in and out easily, particularly in the case of children under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that stand higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress's opening, which could cause your child to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs have an attached changing area that can make diapering a little more convenient and quicker. They are handy, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials that the crib is constructed of. A lot of cribs are made from particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Find a crib that is constructed out of solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.