Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting time, however selecting the crib is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make. The design of the slats, mattress height or conversion capabilities, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their development and health.
Be aware that bolts and nails can become loose over time, so be sure to 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
Size is an important factor to take into consideration when buying the perfect crib. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy infant but small enough that you are able to reach your baby to attend to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made out of metal or wood, and the majority of them include sliding sides. These features let caregivers view the baby from various angles and encourage airflow. Cribs can be used from birth until your child is about two years old. old, when they will have to be moved to a toddler bed.
Most standard cribs come with a mattress height that can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's development. The lowest setting is ideal for infants, whereas the highest setting is suitable for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to be sure the mattress will fit, as the slatted design of a lot of cribs create small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Manufacturers have cribs and mattresses that aren't standard sizes, but meet the same safety standards. These include bassinets, portable infant beds, and play yards. These cribs often have mesh or rigid sides, and they are usually smaller than cribs that are full-size.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size if you select one that isn't standard. There could be specifications that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. Also, you should check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure it's not more than 1 inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof cover for your baby's mattress can help keep it clean and protected from spills or accidents. Select one that has an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were associated with 32 deaths of babies between 2000 and 2010. They have been outlawed in the US since 2011. If you do decide to purchase a crib with drop sides or receive one as a hand-me-down, be sure to remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or has the ability to be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is the safest place for your child. It is a place to relax but also a space where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. There are numerous crib models and brands available on the market. However, all must meet certain safety standards. These standards are laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before putting your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any pillows or blankets inside the crib; these can cause death by suffocation. Use a fitted sheet and a mattress cover instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to be in compliance with formaldehyde emission standards set out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be tested for conformity. The CPSC has concluded that although these rules do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is a good idea to require compliance with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that a requirement that fasteners be retightened between dynamic tests should be included in the crib standard being revised. We strongly disagree with this suggestion. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to replicate and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. best crib that are loose are the 2nd most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident information. These data show that the most frequently cited hazards that are associated with cribs include drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these issues in the new rulemaking process and to incorporate the performance standards already included in the current mandatory standard by reference. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that crib safety is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting experience designing your baby's nursery. The focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it is essential to pick one that is in keeping with your style and compliments your room's decor. There are a variety of chic cribs available that you can choose from modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are options for everyone's budget, from the cheapest to luxurious. Be certain that the crib you choose is in compliance with all the necessary safety standards.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specifically designed for babies and infants. It is constructed from sturdy materials like wood and has slatted wall panels to allow safe ventilation. Cribs are typically larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, however they offer more functionality for your child's early years.
There are a variety of crib designs available, but all of them must meet safety standards. For instance, the crib slats should not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's roughly the width of a soda can), and you should avoid using ornamental cutouts or designs in the footboard or headboard.
The mattress must also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants legs and arms to become entangled. Many cribs have stabilizer bars to assist in keeping the mattress in place. However, if you own a crib that doesn't, be sure to buy mattress pads for additional support.
A great crib also has a low sitting mattress level that helps keep toddlers from climbing over the edge of the crib. This is an excellent feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are small in space. But, be sure to verify the mattress height before making your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will list the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If you are looking for a crib that grows with your child, think about purchasing a convertible crib. These types of cribs can be turned into an infant bed as well as a daybed or a full-size bed. A few of the cribs on our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars There are a few cribs on the market that are budget-friendly. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib, for example, costs less than $200 and is rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium height profile which makes it easier for you to take your baby in and out.
Another budget-friendly crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. The portable sleep and play option is easy to set up and folds up in a few minutes. It can be used inside or outside, on a patio or deck. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It is not designed to be a permanent solution to sleeping as your child will outgrow the product within six months.
You can also find budget-friendly bassinets and cradles can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby safe 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 their first birthday.
A good crib should include a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted into four different positions based on your baby's growth. It should be low enough for you to reach into and out of it easily, especially in the case of children under 5'5. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which can cause your baby to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs have an attached changing area that help diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. They are handy however they require more space than traditional cribs. They might not be a suitable choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials the crib is made of. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Choose a crib that is constructed from solid wood or comes with a metal base instead.