Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting time, but picking the crib is one of the most crucial decisions you'll make. The crib that your baby sleeps will have a major impact on their development and health, whether it is the design of the slats or the mattress's height.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails can become loose with time. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to drapes or blinds that hang because they could pose the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to consider when purchasing the right crib. The crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleeping baby, yet small enough that you can be able to reach them easily and care for them. It should also be sturdy enough to stand up to the wear and tear of regular use.
Most cribs are made of metal or wood and come with slatted side panels. These features are designed to allow caregivers to view the baby from different angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.
Most cribs are equipped with the mattress height which can be adjusted to meet your baby's growth. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns. The most advanced setting is for infants who are able to sit up or crawl. Take measurements of the crib's interior to ensure that the mattress is suitable. The slatted design can leave small gaps which could pose a risk for your baby.
Manufacturers have cribs and mattresses that are not standard sizes, but still comply with the same safety standards. These include play yards as well as portable infant beds and bassinets. cheap cots are smaller than standard cribs and have rigid or mesh sides.
If you opt for a crib that is not standard, make sure you look up the manufacturer's guidelines to determine mattress sizes. There could be requirements that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. Also, you should test the gap between the crib and mattress to be sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bed from accidents and spills. Find one that has an antimicrobial layer that reduces bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib that has drop-sides, you should know that they have been linked to the deaths of 32 infants between 2000 and 2010 and are banned in the US in 2011. If you do decide to buy a drop-side crib or receive one from a friend, be sure to get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or has the ability to climb out.
Safety
A baby crib is among the most secure places for your child to sleep. It's not just a place to rest but also where you can be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are numerous crib models and brands on the market. But, they all have to meet certain safety requirements. These standards are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that the cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you put your child in the crib, make sure that it is clean, free of dust and dander. Remove any toys or stuffed animal that might fall out of the bed. Do not place any pillows or blankets inside the crib. They can lead to suffocation. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to meet formaldehyde emission standards laid out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and cribs constructed of composite wood must be tested to ensure compliance. The CPSC has determined that, even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is still appropriate to require conformity with this important law.
Some commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement of tightening fasteners between dynamic tests. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to simulate and increase the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screw is the second most frequent cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data show that the most frequently cited dangers associated with cribs are drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. We have decided to concentrate our attention on these concerns and include the standards of performance already in the standard that is currently mandatory. By incorporating by reference, we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
The process of designing your baby's nursery can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. The crib is the focal element of any nursery, so it is important to select one that fits your style and complements the decor. There are a variety of stylish cribs available that you can choose from modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are options for every budget, from affordable to luxurious. Be sure that the crib you pick is in compliance with all the necessary safety guidelines.
A crib is a tiny special bed designed specifically for infants and babies. It is constructed from sturdy materials like wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow safe ventilation. Cribs can be bigger and more expensive than bassinets, but they are more functional during the first three years of your child's life.
There are many different types of cribs that are available on the market, but they all must meet strict safety standards. For instance the crib slats need to not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda bottle) and you should not use ornamental cutouts or designs in the footboard or headboard.
Additionally the mattress should be able to fit comfortably within the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and the mattress could allow infants' arms or legs to become entangled. Many cribs include bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, make sure you purchase a mattress pad for extra support.
A great crib also has a low-sitting mattress, which helps prevent children from climbing over the crib's edge. This is a fantastic feature for parents with smaller children or rooms that are limited in space. However, make sure to measure the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. The majority of mattresses will have a label at the corner which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
You should consider buying a convertible crib if you want your crib to change with your child. These cribs can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed or even a bed that is full size. A few of the cribs on our list, such as the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits that are included. The rest will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While most cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars, there are a few cribs available on the market that are budget friendly. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib costs less than 200 dollars and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium-height profile which makes it easier to take your baby into and out.
Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep-and-play option is easy to assemble and folds in just an hour. It can be used indoors or outdoors on a patio or deck and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a long-term solution for sleeping as your child will outgrow it after six months.
There are also affordable bassinets and cradles that can be used for the initial few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. Although they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easy to move around. However, they're only a temporary solution for sleeping and your baby is likely to outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A good crib should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that can be adjusted to four different positions, based on the growth of your baby. It must also be low enough to let you get in and out easily, especially if you are under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that extend over 1 8 inches above the opening of the mattress that could cause your child to get trapped while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs come with an attached changing area which can make diapering a little easier and faster. They are useful however they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a suitable option for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials your crib is constructed of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Instead, opt for a crib made from solid wood or with a metal base.