Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting time, however selecting a crib is one of the most crucial choices you will make. It doesn't matter what design of the slats, mattress height or the capability to convert, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails can become loose over time. Do not place your crib near blinds or drapes hanging because they could pose an injury risk to your baby.
Size
When you are looking for the perfect crib, size is an important factor. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, yet small enough to allow you to reach them in a safe manner to care for them. It should be strong enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from wood or metal, and most include slatted sides. These features let caregivers view the baby from various angles and also encourage airflow. Cribs are utilized from birth until your child is around two years old. old, when they will have to be moved to the toddler bed.
The majority of cribs come with a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns, whereas the highest setting is suitable for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Measure the crib's interior to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted design could leave small gaps which could be dangerous to your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards as standard cribs. These include portable infant beds, bassinets, and play yards. These cribs are smaller than standard cribs and have mesh or rigid sides.
If you decide to purchase a non-standard crib, look up the manufacturer's guidelines to determine mattress size recommendations. They may have specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. You should also examine the distance between the crib and mattress to make sure that it is not more than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof mattress cover can help keep it clean and safe from spills or accidents. Select one that has an antimicrobial layer that eliminates bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're considering a crib that has drop-sides, you should know that they've been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US as of. Even if you decide to purchase a crib with a drop-side or get one as a hand-me-down ensure that you get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or has the ability to be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the safest place for your child. It is not only a place to rest but also where you can see and hold them frequently. There are a myriad of models and brands of cribs on the market, each one must meet certain safety standards. These standards are laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before putting your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean, free of dander and dust. Remove any toys or stuffed animal that could fall off the bed. Also, don't put any pillows or blankets inside the crib, as they can cause suffocation. Instead, use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs need to be in compliance with formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be tested for conformity. The CPSC has concluded that even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is appropriate to insist on the compliance of this law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement of tightening fasteners between dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this idea. The shake test and the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and increase the abuse of cribs. Screws that are loose are the 2nd leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident information. These data show that the most common dangers associated with cribs are drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. We decided to focus our focus on these issues and incorporate the performance standards already incorporated into the current mandatory standard. Incorporation by reference is the best method to ensure that the safety of cribs is ensured in a uniform and effective manner.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting experience to design your baby's nursery. recommended cribs is the focal element of any nursery, so pick one that matches your style and compliments the decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there are plenty of chic cribs to pick from. You can find options in every price range, from affordable to luxurious. Just be sure that the crib you pick conforms to all safety standards.
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 larger and more expensive than bassinets, but offer greater functionality for the first three years of your child's life.
There are a variety of types of cribs on the market, but they all must be in compliance with strict safety standards. For example, the crib slats should be no more than 6 centimeters apart (that's roughly the width of a soda can), and you should stay clear of ornamental cutouts or designs in the footboard or headboard.
The mattress should be able to fit snugly into the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and mattress can cause babies legs and arms to become entangled. A lot of cribs have bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. However, if you own a crib that doesn't, ensure you buy a mattress pad for extra support.
A good crib also has a low-sitting mattress that prevents children from climbing over the edge of the crib. This is an excellent feature for parents with smaller children or rooms that are small in space. But, be sure to measure the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. The corners of many mattresses will list the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
You should consider buying an adjustable crib if you would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed and even a bed that is full size. Certain cribs, such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 are equipped with conversion kits. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced at 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 has been highly rated 5 stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has an overall profile that is medium height, making it simple to get your child inside and out.
Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. The portable sleep and play option is easy to assemble and folds in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or outdoors on a patio or deck and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not designed to be a permanent solution to sleeping because your child will grow out of the product within six months.
You can also find affordable cradles and bassinets that can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. They cost more, but they are also smaller and easier to move. However, they are only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A quality crib will have a mattress support that is sturdy 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, particularly in the case of children under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that stand more than 1 8 inches above the opening of the mattress that could cause your child to get trapped while they play or attempt to climb.
Some cribs have separate changing rooms which can make diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. These are convenient however they require more space than traditional cribs. They might not be a good option for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials the crib is made from. Many traditional cribs are made from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Look for a crib made from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.