Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery however, choosing the crib is one of the most important decisions. The crib that your baby sleeps will have a major impact on their health and development, whether it is the style of the slats, or the mattress's height.
Remember that nails and bolts may become loose over time, so be sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to blinds or drapes that hang because they could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
When shopping for a crib, size is an important factor. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, yet small enough for you to reach them safely to care for them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed out of metal or wood, and most include slatted sides. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs are used from birth until the child is around two years old. old, when they will require moving into a toddler bed.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting works best for babies. The most advanced setting is for infants who are able to sit up or crawl. Measure the crib's interior to ensure that the mattress will fit. The slatted design could leave tiny gaps that could pose a risk to your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that meet the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds and play yards. These cribs often have mesh or rigid sides, and they are generally smaller in size than full-size cribs.
If you choose a crib that is not standard, make sure you review the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size guidelines. 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 check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure that it is not greater than 1 inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof mattress cover for your baby can help keep it clean and safe from spit-up or accidents. Select one that has an antimicrobial layer that eliminates bacteria and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop sides, be aware that they've been linked to 32 baby deaths between 2000 and 2010. Cots 4 Tots have been banned in the US since 2011. If you do decide to purchase or get a crib with drop sides for your baby be sure to get rid of it once your child reaches 35 inches or is able to get out.
Safety
A crib for babies is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It is a place for them to rest, but also a place where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. While there are many different cribs and brands on the market, each one must comply with certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before putting your child in the crib make sure that it is clean, free of dust and dander. Take away any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any pillows or blankets inside the crib, as they can cause death by suffocation. Use a fitted sheet and a mattress cover.
Some commenters suggested cribs should be in compliance with formaldehyde emissions standards as outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199), and cribs made of composite wood must be tested to determine if they are in compliance. Although these regulations are not directly applicable to cribs but the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to demand that cribs and other furniture made of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should include a requirement to retighten fasteners after dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this suggestion. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to replicate and speed up the use and abuse of cribs by children. The loose screw is the second most common cause of crib deaths.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident information. The data shows that the two most common crib dangers are mattresses that are not safe and drop-sides. We therefore decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking and to include the performance standards that are already contained in the existing mandatory standard through reference. By reference incorporation is the best way to ensure that the safety of cribs is ensured in a consistent and efficient way.
Style
It is a rewarding and exciting process to design the nursery of your baby's. The crib is the focal element of any nursery, so it is important to select one that fits your style and complements its decor. There are numerous stylish cribs available, whether you want something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options for every budget, from the most affordable to high-end. Make sure that the crib you select conforms to all safety standards.
A crib is a small bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It has slatted walls that ensure safe ventilation and is often constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets and can be more expensive, but they are more functional for your child's the first three years of life.
There are many styles of cribs available on the market, but they all must meet strict safety standards. For instance the crib slats must be no more than 6 centimeters apart (that's approximately the size of a soda can), and you should avoid using ornamental cutouts or designs on the footboard or headboard.
The mattress must be able to fit snugly into the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the mattress and crib can cause infants legs or arms to get caught in. A lot of cribs have bars for stability to help keep the mattress in place. If your crib doesn't come with stabilizer bars, then you'll need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A good crib also has a low-sitting mattress that prevents toddlers from stepping over the edge of the crib. This is an excellent feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are restricted in size. But, be sure to measure the mattress height before making your purchase. Most mattresses will have a label on the corner that shows the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you're looking for a crib that grows with your child, think about purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into toddler beds, a daybed and even a bed that is full size. Some cribs on 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 are priced at hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is priced at less than 200 dollars and is rated 5 stars by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium-height profile which makes it easier to take your baby into and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep-and-play option is simple to put together and folds up in two minutes. It can be used inside or outside, on a patio or deck. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It is not designed to be a long-term solution for sleeping as your child will outgrow it after six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that can be used for the initial few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. While they are a bit more expensive than a standard crib, they are also more compact and easier to move around. But, they're only a temporary sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality will include a mattress support that is strong and secure, and can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's weight. It must also be low enough to let you reach in and out easily, especially when you are less than 5'5. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress's opening that could cause your child to be trapped as they play or attempt to climb.
Some cribs have separate changing rooms which can make diapering a bit easier and faster. They are useful however they require more space than traditional cribs. They may not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials that the crib is constructed of. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Instead, look for a crib made of solid wood or with a metal base.