Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery however, choosing the crib will be one of your most important decisions. The style of slats, mattress height or the capability to convert, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their development and health.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails can become loose with time. Also, avoid placing your crib near drapes or window blinds that dangle, which present a risk of strangulation for your baby.
Size
When choosing the perfect crib, size is an important factor. The crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping baby, but small enough for you to reach them safely to take care of them. It should also be strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
The majority of cribs are constructed out of metal or wood, and the majority of them come with slatted sides. These features let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and also encourage airflow. Cribs can be used from birth until your child is approximately two years of age, at which point they require moving into the toddler bed.
The majority of cribs have a mattress height that can be adjusted to meet your baby's growth. The lowest setting is suitable for newborns, while the highest setting is suitable for babies who sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the inside of your crib to be sure that the mattress fits because the slatted style of most cribs may leave small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Manufacturers offer cribs and mattresses that aren't standard sizes, but still have the same safety standards. These include portable infant beds, bassinets, and play yards. These cribs usually have rigid or mesh sides, and are usually smaller than full-size cribs.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you decide to purchase a crib that isn't standard. 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 be sure it is no more than 1 inch, which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bed from spills and accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial barrier that helps reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were linked to 32 baby deaths between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US since. Even if you plan to purchase a crib with a drop-side or receive one from a friend ensure that you remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or has the ability to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is one of the safest places to let your child sleep. It's not just an area to rest, but also where you can observe and hold them often. There are numerous crib models and brands on the market. However, cribs beds 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, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Remove any toys or stuffed animal that may fall out of the bed. Do not place any pillows or blankets inside the crib. They could cause suffocation. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must comply with the formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and cribs made from composite wood should be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. The CPSC has concluded that, although these rules do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is appropriate to insist on compliance with this important law.
Some commenters suggested that the new crib standard should include the requirement to tighten fasteners between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not a good idea for us. The shake test and the vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and accelerate 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. The data shows that the most frequent dangers associated with cribs are drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. Therefore, we decided to concentrate on these issues in the new rulemaking process and to incorporate the performance standards that are already included in the existing mandatory standard by reference. By reference incorporation is the most effective method to ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained in a uniform and effective way.
Style
It's an enjoyable and thrilling experience to design your baby's nursery. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, so it's important to choose one that is in keeping with your style and complements the room's decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist style or more traditional, there are lots of chic cribs to pick from. There are options for everyone's budget, from the cheapest to upscale. Make certain that the crib you select is in compliance with all the necessary safety guidelines.
A crib is a small bed that is specifically designed for infants and children. It has slatted walls that provide adequate ventilation and is usually built from sturdy materials like wood. Cribs can be larger and more expensive than bassinets but offer greater functionality for the initial three years of your child's life.
There are a variety of crib styles available, but all must meet safety standards. The crib's slats for instance, shouldn't exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. You should also beware of cutouts or ornaments in the headboard and footboard.
In addition the mattress should fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and mattress can cause infants' arms and legs to get caught in the crib. A lot of cribs have stabilizer bars to aid in keeping the mattress in its place. However, if you own a crib that doesn't, be sure to buy an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A good crib also has a low-sitting mattress that helps keep toddlers from climbing over the edge of the crib. It's a great feature for smaller parents or rooms with limited space Be sure to verify the mattress height before you make your purchase. The majority of mattresses will include a sticker on the corner that indicates the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
If you are looking for a crib that can grow with your child, think about buying a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into a toddler bed as well as a daybed or a bed that is full size. A few of the cribs in 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 will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While most cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars, there are a few cribs available on the market that are budget friendly. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is priced at 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 to get your baby in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep-and-play option is easy to assemble and folds down in two minutes. It can be used indoors or outdoors on a patio or deck and is suitable for babies up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleeping solution, however, as your baby will outgrow it after approximately six months.
There are also affordable bassinets and cribs that can be used for the first few months, which allows you to keep your baby in a safe and secure environment. They're more expensive however they are smaller and easier to move. However, they are only a temporary solution for sleeping and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should be sturdy and solid mattress support that can be adjusted to four different positions, depending on your baby's growth. It must also be low enough to let you get in and out easily, particularly when you are less than 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress opening which could cause your child to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs come with 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.
You should also consider the materials that the crib is made from. A lot of cribs made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Instead, look for a crib made from solid wood or with a metal base.