Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting experience, but picking the crib is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The crib that your baby sleeps in will have a significant impact on their health and development regardless of the style of the slats, or the mattress height.
Be aware that nails and bolts may be loose in time, so be sure to check your crib's hardware frequently. Also, avoid placing your crib near window blinds or drapes that hang, which can create a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying the perfect crib. The crib should be large enough to fit a sleeping baby, but compact enough for you to reach them in a safe manner to care for them. It should also be strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
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 encourage airflow. Cribs can be used from birth until the child is approximately two years of age, at which point they need to be moved into a toddler bed.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting works best for infants. 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 can leave small gaps which could be hazardous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer cribs with non-standard sizes and mattresses that have the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include portable infant beds, bassinets and play yards. These cribs typically come with mesh or rigid sides, and tend to be smaller 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 may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also recommended to test the gap between the crib and mattress to be sure it's not larger than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's bedding from spills and accidents. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer to cut down on the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib that has drop-sides, be aware that they've been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and are banned in the US as of 2011. Even if you plan to buy or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby be sure to remove it when your child is 35 inches or has the ability to be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is the most secure spot for your child. It is not only an area to rest, but also a place where you can be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are a myriad of cribs and brands on the market, each one must meet certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before you put your child in the crib make sure that it is clean and free of dander and dust. Also, remove any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Don't put any blankets or pillows inside the crib. They could cause the suffocation of children. Use a fitted sheet and mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to meet formaldehyde emission standards set out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 111-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be tested for compliance. The CPSC has determined that, even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is a good idea to enforce compliance with this important law.
Others suggested that the requirement that fasteners be retightened between dynamic tests should be added to the crib standard that is being developed. We strongly disagree with this idea. The shake test and vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and increase the crib abuse. Loose screws are the second leading cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data show that the most frequently cited hazards that are associated with cribs include drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. We decided to focus our attention on these concerns and to incorporate the standards of performance already in the current mandatory standard. By reference incorporation is the best method to ensure that the safety of cribs is ensured in a consistent and efficient way.
Style
The process of designing your baby's nursery can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it is essential to pick one that is in keeping with your style and complements the room's décor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist design or more traditional, there's a wide selection of chic cribs to pick from. You can find options in every price range, from budget to luxurious. Be sure that the crib you select meets all of the required safety standards.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specifically designed for infants and babies. 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 they are more functional during the first three years of your child's life.
There are a variety of types of cribs that are available on the market, but they all must meet strict safety standards. For example, the crib slats should not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's roughly the width of a soda can) and you should not use decorative cutouts or shapes in the footboard or headboard.
In addition, the mattress must be able to fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants 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, make sure you purchase mattress pads for additional support.
A mattress that is low-level is another characteristic of a good crib that prevents children from climbing up the crib's edge. It's a great option for smaller parents or rooms with limited space, but be sure to check the mattress's height prior to you purchase. The corners of many mattresses will show the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
Consider buying an adjustable crib if you want your crib to grow with your child. These cribs can be transformed into an infant's bed, a daybed, or even a full size bed. Some cribs on our list, such as the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits included. cot sales will require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs cost hundreds of dollars However, there are some cribs that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is less than 200 dollars and is rated 5 stars by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium-height profile, which makes it easy to get your baby in and out.
Another budget-friendly crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable crib for sleep and play is simple to set up and folds down in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or out on decks or patios. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however as your baby will grow out of it after about six months.
There are also affordable bassinets and cradles that are suitable for the initial few months, which allows you to keep your baby snug and close. Although they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easy to move around. However, they're only a short-term sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A good crib should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that can be adjusted in four different positions, depending on the growth of your baby. It should be low enough to let you reach into and out easily, particularly when you are less than 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that stand over 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening that could cause your child to be trapped while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs feature separate changing rooms that can make diapering a little more convenient and quicker. They are useful however they require more space than traditional cribs. They might not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials the crib is made of. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Look for a crib that is constructed from solid wood or has a metal base instead.