Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery however, choosing the crib is one of the most important decisions. Whether it's the style of slats, the mattress height or the capability to convert the crib the baby sleeps in will affect their development and health.
Remember that bolts and nails can be loose in time, so check your crib's hardware frequently. Also, avoid placing your crib near window blinds or drapes that dangle, which pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
When shopping for the perfect crib size is a crucial 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 also be strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood and most include slatted sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from different angles and to ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs are available until your child is of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is best for infants. The highest setting is for babies who can sit up or crawl. Measure the crib's interior to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted design can leave small gaps which could be hazardous to your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that have the same safety standards as standard cribs. These include play yards and portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than standard ones and have mesh or rigid sides.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you select a crib that isn't standard. They might have specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. You should also test the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure it's not larger than 1 inch, which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof mattress cover for your baby can help keep it clean and safe from accidents or spit-up. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer to cut down on the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that stops allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop sides, you should be aware that they were linked to 32 baby deaths between 2000 and 2010, and have been outlawed in the US since. Even if you plan to purchase a crib with drop sides or receive one as a gift, be sure to get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or can climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It's a place for them to rest and also a place where you can keep them close and observe them frequently. There are many crib models and brands on the market. But, they all have to meet certain safety requirements. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that the cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before putting your child in the crib make sure the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Also, remove any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Also, don't put any blankets or pillows in the crib; these can cause the suffocation of children. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested cribs should be in compliance with formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and cribs constructed from composite wood should be tested to ensure compliance. Although these requirements don't directly apply to cribs however, the CPSC has ruled that it is appropriate to mandate that cribs and other furniture made from composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Some commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement to tighten fasteners between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not a good idea for us. The dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to simulate and increase the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the 2nd leading cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident data. These data show that the most common hazards that are associated with cribs include dangerous mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular attention on these concerns and include the standards of performance already in the current mandatory standard. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that crib safety is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
Designing your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding process. The crib is the main focal element of any nursery, so select one that fits your style and complements its decor. If you're looking for a contemporary and minimalist style or more traditional, there's a wide selection of stylish cribs to choose from. There are cribs for every budget, from the cheapest to upscale. Make sure the crib you choose is safe and meets all safety standards.
A crib is a compact special bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It has slatted walls that ensure adequate ventilation and is usually constructed from durable materials such as wood. Cribs can be larger and more expensive than bassinets, however they offer more functionality during the initial three years of your child's life.
There are many styles of cribs available on the market, but they all have to meet strict safety standards. The crib slats, as an example, should not be more than 6 centimeters (about the width of a can of soda) apart. You should also avoid decorative shapes or cutouts in the headboard and footboard.
The mattress must be able to fit comfortably into the crib's opening. top rated cots is crucial because gaps between the crib and mattress can allow babies' arms or legs to get caught in. Some cribs come with stabilizer bars to help keep the mattress in place. But if you have a crib that doesn't have them, ensure you buy mattress pads for additional support.
A good crib also has a low-sitting mattress that helps keep children from climbing over the edge of the crib. It's an excellent feature for smaller families or rooms that are small, but be sure to verify the mattress height before you make your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If you're looking for a crib that can grow with your child, consider buying a convertible crib. These types of cribs can be converted into toddler beds as well as a daybed or a bed that is full size. Some of the cribs in our list, including the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with conversion kits included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost in the hundreds of dollars however, there are a few cribs on the market that are budget-friendly. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is less than 200 dollars and is 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium height profile that makes it simple for you to get your baby in and out.
Another budget-friendly crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. It is easy to set up and folds up in an hour. It can be used inside or out on a deck or patio. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however, since your baby will outgrow it after approximately six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that can be used for the initial few months, which allows you to keep your baby in a safe and secure environment. While they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easy to move around. But, they're only a short-term sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A quality crib should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted to four different positions based on the development of your baby. It should be low enough for you to reach in and out of it easily, particularly when you're less than 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are over 1 8 inches above the opening of the mattress This can cause your child to be stuck while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs come with separate changing rooms that can make diapering a little more convenient and quicker. They are handy however they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials your crib is made from. cot bed sales are constructed of particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Look for a crib that is constructed from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.