Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting time, however choosing the crib is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The style of slats, mattress height or conversion capabilities the crib the baby sleeps in will impact their health and development.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails can become loose over time. Also, don't place your crib near curtains or window blinds that hang, which can pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing the perfect crib. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant but small enough that you are able to reach your baby in order to talk to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made out of metal or wood, and most include slatted sides. These features allow caregivers to see the baby from various angles and encourage airflow. Cribs can be used from birth until your child is around two years old. of age, at which point they require moving into the toddler bed.
The majority of cribs come with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns, while the highest setting is suitable for babies who can sit up or crawl. Make sure you measure the interior of your crib to make sure that the mattress fits as the slatted structure of a lot of cribs leave tiny gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards as standard cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds, and play yards. These cribs are smaller than standard ones and have rigid or mesh sides.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you decide to purchase one that isn't standard. There may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimension of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Also, you should examine the distance between the crib and mattress to make sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof mattress cover for your baby can keep it clean and safe from spit-up or accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer to cut down on the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib that has drop-sides, be aware that they have been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US as of. If you do decide to buy or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby, make sure to get rid of it once your child is 35 inches or can be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is one of the safest places to let your child sleep. It is not only an area to rest, but also a place to be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are many crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all must meet certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before you put your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any pillows or blankets inside the crib, as they can cause death by suffocation. Instead, use a mattress pad and fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should be required to meet formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 111-199), and cribs made from composite wood should be tested to determine if they are in compliance. The CPSC has determined that, although these rules do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is still appropriate to insist on conformity with this important law.
Some commenters suggested that the requirement that fasteners are tightened again between dynamic tests should be added to the crib standard being revised. This suggestion is not something we would consider. The dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to mimic and speed up the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the second most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident information. These data show that the most frequent dangers associated with cribs are dangerous mattresses and drop-sides. We have decided to concentrate our attention on these concerns and include the performance standards already incorporated into the current mandatory standard. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It's a satisfying and thrilling experience designing your baby's nursery. The crib is the main focal element of any nursery, so choose one that suits your style and complements the decor. There are numerous elegant cribs to choose from, whether you want something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options for every price range, from affordable to high-end. Make sure that the crib you pick meets all of the required safety guidelines.
A crib is a compact special bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It is made of sturdy materials like wood, and features slatted wall paneling to allow safe ventilation. Cribs are often larger and more expensive than bassinets but offer greater functionality during the first three years of your child's life.
There are a variety of styles of cribs available on the market, however they all must be in compliance with strict safety standards. The crib slats, for example, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. Also, you should avoid cutting outs or decorative shapes on the footboard and headboard.
The mattress should also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause babies legs and arms to get caught in the crib. A lot of cribs have stabilizer bars to aid in keeping the mattress in place. However, if you own a crib that doesn't have them, be sure to buy a mattress pad for extra support.
A good crib also has a mattress that is low that prevents toddlers from stepping over the edge of the crib. This is a fantastic feature for parents with small children or rooms that are limited in size. However, it is important to verify the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will show the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
Consider purchasing see more if want your crib to change with your child. These types of cribs can be transformed into an infant bed, a daybed and even a full-size bed. A few of the cribs in our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits that are included. The rest will require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost 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 for instance, is priced less than $200 and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium-height profile which makes it easier for you to get your baby in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. This portable sleep-and-play option is easy to set up and folds in just an hour. It can be used indoors or outside on a patio or deck and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleep solution, however since your baby will outgrow it after approximately six months.
You can also find budget-friendly cradles and bassinets that you can use for the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. Although they're more expensive than a standard crib, they are also smaller and easier to move around. However, they're only a temporary solution for sleeping and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.
A good crib will have a mattress support that is strong and secure, and can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's height. It must also be low enough to let you reach into and out easily, especially in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening which can cause your child to be trapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs have attached changing areas, which makes diaper changing easier and faster. These are convenient, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be a suitable choice for smaller nurseries.
Think about the materials that the crib is constructed of. Many cribs are constructed of particleboard, which is made up of formaldehyde. Find a crib made from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.