Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting experience, but selecting the crib is one of the most crucial choices you will make. Whether it's the style of slats, the mattress height or the ability to convert, the crib the baby sleeps in will affect their development and health.
Keep in mind that nails and bolts may become loose over time, so check your crib's hardware frequently. Avoid placing your crib near blinds or drapes that hang on the ceiling, as they could create a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
When you are looking for the perfect crib, size is an important aspect. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping infant, yet small enough that you are able to reach your baby in order to talk to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood, and are fitted with slatted side panels. These features allow caregivers to view the baby from various angles and also encourage airflow. Cribs are utilized from birth until the child is about two years old. old, when they will need to be moved into the toddler bed.
The majority of cribs come with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns. The most advanced setting is for infants who are able to sit up or crawl. Check the crib's dimensions to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted design could leave small gaps which could be hazardous to your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards as standard cribs. These include play yards, portable infant beds, and bassinets. These cribs often have mesh or rigid sides, and are generally smaller in size than the full-size cribs.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you select a crib that isn't standard. There could be specific requirements that are different from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. It is also recommended to check the gap between the crib and mattress to be sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover can protect your baby's bedding from spills and accidents. Choose one with an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop sides, be aware that they've been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US since 2011. Even if you plan to purchase or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby be sure to get rid of it once your child is 35 inches or is able to get out.
Safety
A crib for babies is among the most secure places to let your child sleep. It's not just a place to rest but also where you can see and hold them frequently. There are numerous crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all must meet certain safety requirements. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for infants.
Before putting your child in the crib, make sure the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, remove any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Use no blankets or pillows inside the crib. They could cause the suffocation of children. Instead, use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should conform to formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be inspected for compliance. While these rules are not directly applicable to cribs but the CPSC has decided that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture made from composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should include a requirement to retighten fasteners between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not something we would consider. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to replicate and speed up the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screws are the second leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident records. The data shows that the most frequently cited hazards that are associated with cribs include drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. We decided to focus our attention on these issues and incorporate the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard. The incorporation of reference standards is the best method to ensure that the cribs' safety is maintained in a consistent and efficient way.
Style
It's a satisfying and exciting process designing your baby's nursery. The crib is the focal feature of any nursery, so it is important to pick one that matches your style and compliments the decor. There are a variety of elegant cribs to choose from that you can choose from modern and minimalist or more traditional. You can find options in every price range, from affordable to luxurious. Make sure the crib you select meets all safety requirements.
A crib is a small bed that is specially designed for infants and children. It is constructed from sturdy materials like wood, and has slatted wall panels to allow safe ventilation. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, but they offer more functionality for your baby'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 example, the crib slats should be no more than 6 centimeters apart (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle), and you should avoid using decorative cutouts or shapes in the headboard or footboard.
In addition the mattress should fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause babies' arms and legs to become entangled. Baby Cot have stabilizer bars that aid in keeping the mattress in place. But if you have a crib that doesn't have them, be sure to buy a mattress pad for extra support.
A low-level mattress is another characteristic of a good crib that helps to prevent toddlers from climbing the crib's edge. It's a great option for smaller families or rooms with a limited space, but be sure to verify the mattress's height prior to you purchase. Most mattresses have a sticker on the corner that indicates the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
You should consider buying a convertible crib if would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Some of the cribs in 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 require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars however, 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 has been 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. Baby beds has a profile that is medium high, making it easy to get your child inside and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another budget-friendly crib. The portable sleep and play option is easy to set up and folds in just two minutes. It can be used inside or out on a deck or patio. It is suitable for babies weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleeping solution, however, as your baby will grow out of it after about six months.
You can also find affordable bassinets and cradles that can be used 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 easy to move around. However, they are only a temporary solution for sleeping, and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.
A quality crib should include a sturdy, solid mattress support that can be adjusted in four different positions, depending on your baby's growth. It should be low enough to let you reach in and out easily, especially if you are under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which can cause your child to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs are equipped with changing areas that can make diapering easier and quicker. They are useful however they require more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a suitable choice for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials the crib is made from. Many traditional cribs are made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Instead, look for a crib made of solid wood or with a steel base.