Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery, but choosing the crib will be one of your most crucial choices. It doesn't matter what design of the slats, mattress height or the capability to convert, the crib that your baby sleeps on will affect their health and development.
Keep in mind that nails and bolts may wiggle loose over time, so be sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Be sure to avoid placing your crib near drapes or window blinds that hang, which can pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
When you are looking for a crib, size is an important aspect. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleeping infant, but small enough so that you are able to reach your child to listen to them. It should be strong enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood and the majority of them have sliding sides. These features allow caregivers to see the baby from various angles and encourage airflow. Cribs can be used up until your child reaches the age of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns, whereas the highest setting is ideal for babies who sit up or crawl. Take measurements of the crib's interior to ensure the mattress will fit. The slatted design could create small gaps that could be dangerous to your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds and play yards. These cribs are smaller than full-size ones and have rigid or mesh sides.
If you decide to purchase a crib that is not standard, make sure you check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress sizes. There may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimension of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also recommended to check the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover for your baby's mattress can help keep it clean and safe from accidents or spit-up. Choose one with an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're thinking about buying a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were linked to 32 deaths of babies between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US since. If you do decide to buy a drop-side crib or get one as a hand-me-down, be sure to get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or can climb out.
Safety
A baby crib is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It is a place to relax, but also a place where you can keep them close and observe them often. There are a variety of crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all must meet certain safety requirements. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before putting your child in the crib make sure it is clean and free of dander and dust. Take away any toys or stuffed animals that could fall off the bed. Do not place any pillows or blankets in the crib. They can lead to the suffocation of children. Instead, you should use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must comply with the formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be inspected to ensure compliance. Although these requirements don't directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement of tightening fasteners in between dynamic tests. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test are designed to simulate and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screws are the second most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident information. The data shows that the most frequent dangers associated with cribs are drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. We decided to focus our attention on these concerns and to incorporate the performance standards already incorporated into the current mandatory standard. By incorporating by reference, we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It's a satisfying and exciting process to design your baby's nursery. The focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it's important to choose one that matches your style and matches the room's décor. There are numerous elegant cribs to choose from regardless of whether you're looking for something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options available in every price range, from affordable to high-end. Be sure that the crib you choose has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a small bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It is constructed from sturdy materials such as wood and has slatted wall panels to allow for a safe airflow. Cribs are typically larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, however they are more functional for your baby's early years.
There are many styles of cribs available on the market, but they all must be in compliance with strict safety standards. For instance, the crib slats should not exceed 6 centimeters apart (that's approximately the size of a soda can) and you should stay clear of decorative cutouts or shapes in the footboard or headboard.
Additionally, the mattress must fit snugly inside the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause babies' arms and legs to become entangled. A lot of cribs have bars for stabilization that aid in keeping the mattress in place. If your crib doesn't have stabilizer bars, you'll need to buy a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A good crib also has a mattress that is low that helps keep children from climbing over the edge of the crib. This is a fantastic feature for parents with small children or rooms that are restricted in space. However, make sure to verify the mattress height before making your purchase. The majority of mattresses will have a sticker on the corner, which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
If you're looking for a crib that grows with your child, consider purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into the toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. A few cribs on our list, including the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with conversion kits that are included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost hundreds of dollars However, there are some cribs that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib for instance, is priced less than $200 and is rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium height profile that makes it simple for you to take your baby in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable play and sleep option is easy to set up and folds down in a matter of minutes. sale cot can be used indoors or outside, on decks or patios. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleep solution, however, as your baby will grow out of it after approximately six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cribs that can be used for the initial few months, which allows you to keep your baby snug and close. Although they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easier to move around. They're only a temporary crib for sleeping and your baby will outgrow it before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality will have a mattress support that is solid and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's height. It should be low enough to allow you to reach in and out of it easily, especially in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that stand more than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening that could cause your child to get trapped while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs have attached changing rooms, which makes diaper changing easier and quicker. They are useful however they require more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a suitable option for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials that the crib is made of. Many cribs are constructed of particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Instead, choose a crib that is made of solid wood or with a metal base.
