Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery, however, choosing the crib will be one of your most crucial choices. The crib that your baby sleeps in will have a major impact on their health and development, whether it is the design of the slats or mattress height.
Remember that nails and bolts may wiggle loose over time, so be sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Be sure to avoid placing your crib close to curtains or window blinds that dangle, which pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to consider when purchasing the right crib. The crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy baby, but compact enough to allow you to reach them safely to care for them. It should also be strong enough to stand up to the wear and tear of everyday use.
The majority of cribs are made from wood or metal, and the majority of them come with sliding sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from different angles and to ensure proper air flow. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.
Most standard cribs have a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is best for infants, whereas the highest setting is suitable for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Check the crib's dimensions to ensure the mattress will fit. The slatted design can create small gaps that could be hazardous to your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that have the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds and play yards. These cribs usually have mesh or rigid sides, and they are usually smaller than cribs that are full-size.
If you choose a crib that is not standard, make sure you check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size recommendations. They might have requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress size of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also recommended to examine the distance between the crib and mattress to be sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's bed from spills and accidents. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer that reduces the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that stops allergens.
If you are considering a crib with drop-sides, be aware that they've been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US as of 2011. Even if you plan to buy a drop-side crib or get one as a hand-me-down ensure that you remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or has the ability to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is among the most secure places to let your child sleep. It's a space to relax, but also a place where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. There are a myriad of brands and models of cribs available all of them 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 ensure that the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Take away any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Do not place any pillows or blankets within the crib. They can cause suffocation. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested cribs should be in compliance with formaldehyde emissions standards as outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and cribs constructed of composite wood must 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 still appropriate to insist on the compliance of this law.
Some commenters suggested that a requirement that fasteners be retightened between dynamic tests should be added to the crib standard being revised. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The shake test as well as the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and speed up abuse of cribs. Screws that are loose are the second most frequent cause of crib deaths.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident data. These data show that the most common dangers associated with cribs are dangerous mattresses and drop-sides. We have decided to concentrate our focus on these issues and incorporate the standards of performance already in the current mandatory standard. The incorporation of reference standards is the best method to ensure that the safety of cribs is ensured in a consistent and effective way.
Style
The process of designing your baby's nursery can be an exciting and rewarding process. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, so it is essential to pick one that matches your style and matches the room's decor. There are a variety of chic cribs available regardless of whether you're looking for something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options for every budget, from the most affordable to high-end. Make sure the crib you select has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a small bed designed specifically for infants and babies. It is constructed of durable materials like wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs can be bigger and more expensive than bassinets, but offer greater functionality for the initial three years of your child's life.
There are many crib styles available, but all of them must meet safety standards. The crib slats, as an example, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a bottle of soda) apart. It is also recommended to beware of cutouts or ornaments in the footboard and headboard.
In addition the mattress should be able to fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the mattress and crib can cause infants' arms or legs to get caught in. Baby Cot of cribs have bars for stability to help keep the mattress in place. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, make sure you purchase a mattress pad for extra support.
A good crib also has a mattress that is low that helps keep toddlers from climbing over the edge of the crib. This is a great feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are limited in space. But, be sure to verify the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. Most mattresses have a label on the corner that shows the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
Consider purchasing a convertible crib if you want your crib to grow with your child. These cribs can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a full-size bed. Certain cribs, such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1, come with conversion kits. The rest will require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs cost hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib for instance, is priced less than $200 and has been rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium height profile, which makes it easy to get your baby in and out.
Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. The portable sleep and play option is simple to put together and folds down in two minutes. It can be used indoors or outside on a patio or deck and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleeping solution, however, since your baby will outgrow it after approximately six months.
You can also find budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that you can use for the first few weeks to keep your baby safe and close. They are more expensive but they are smaller and easier to move. They're only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality will include a mattress support that is strong and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's height. It must also be low enough to allow you to get in and out easily, especially when you are less than 5'5. Some cribs have posts that extend more 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 areas which can make diapering a bit easier and faster. While these are convenient however, they take up more floor space than traditional cribs, and might not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials the crib is made from. A lot of cribs are made from particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Instead, look for a crib that is made of solid wood or with a metal base.