Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting experience, but picking a crib is one of the most crucial choices you will make. It doesn't matter what style of slats, the mattress height or conversion capabilities, the crib the baby sleeps in will impact their health and development.
Remember that nails and bolts can be loose in time, so make sure you check your crib's hardware frequently. Also, don't place your crib close to drapes or window blinds that hang, which can create a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to consider when shopping for a crib. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy infant but small enough that you can safely reach your child to listen to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed from metal or wood and a majority have slatted sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from various angles and to ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs can be used until your child reaches the age of two.
The majority of cribs come with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is best for infants, whereas the highest setting is suitable for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Take measurements of the crib's interior to ensure that the mattress will fit. The slatted design can create small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that meet the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include play yards and portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs typically come with mesh or rigid sides, and they tend to be smaller than the full-size cribs.
If you opt for an alternative crib, be sure to review the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress sizes. They may have specific specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Also, you should check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure it is not more than 1 inch. This is the maximum safe distance.
A waterproof cover can protect your baby's mattress from spills and accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer that eliminates allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop-sides, you should know that they were linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US as of. Even if you intend to purchase or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby ensure that you dispose of it when your child reaches 35 inches or is able to be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is among the most secure places for your child to sleep. It's not just a place to rest but also a place to be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are a myriad of brands and models of cribs 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, free of dust and dander. Also, take out any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Also, don't put any pillows or blankets in the crib, as they can cause suffocation. Instead, use a mattress pad and fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested cribs should comply with the formaldehyde emissions standards as outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199), and cribs made of composite wood must be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. While these rules don't directly apply to cribs however, the CPSC has decided that it is appropriate to mandate that cribs and other furniture made of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the requirement that fasteners are tightened after dynamic tests should be included in the new crib standard. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The shake test and vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and speed up crib abuse. Loose screws are the second most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on EWS incident data. These data show that the most common hazards that are associated with cribs include drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. We decided to focus our attention on these concerns and include the standards of performance already in the standard that is currently mandatory. Incorporation by reference is the best way to ensure that the safety of cribs is ensured in a consistent and efficient manner.
Style
It's a satisfying and thrilling experience to design your baby's nursery. The focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore 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 look or something more traditional, there are lots of stylish cribs to choose from. There are cribs for every budget, from affordable to upscale. Just be certain that the crib you choose meets all of the required safety guidelines.
A crib is a small bed that is specifically designed for infants and children. It is constructed of durable materials such as wood and features slatted wall paneling to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, however they offer more functionality for your child's first three years of life.
There are many crib styles that are available, however all must be safe to use. The crib's slats for instance, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. It is also recommended to beware of cutouts or ornaments in the headboard and footboard.
In addition, the mattress must be able to fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause babies' arms and legs to get caught in the crib. A lot of cribs have bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. But if you have an unstabilized crib, be sure to buy mattress pads for additional support.
A mattress that is low-level is another characteristic of a quality crib that can help keep children from climbing up the crib's edge. This is a fantastic feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are limited in size. However, make sure to check out the mattress's height prior your purchase. The corners of many mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If you're looking for an infant crib that grows with your child, consider purchasing a convertible crib. best crib of cribs can be converted into toddler beds, a daybed and even a bed that is full size. Some cribs, like the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 are equipped with conversion kits. The rest will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost in the hundreds of dollars 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 has been 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium height profile, which makes it easy for you to take your baby in and out.
Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep and play option is simple to put together and folds in a matter of minutes. It can be used inside or out on a patio or deck. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a permanent solution for sleeping because your child will outgrow the product after six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cribs that can be used for the beginning of the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. While they are a bit more expensive than a standard crib they are also smaller and easier to move around. They're only a temporary crib for sleeping and your baby will outgrow it before their first birthday.
A good crib will have a mattress support that is solid and secure, and is able to be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's height. It must be low enough for you to reach into and out of it easily, especially when you're less than 5'5 inches. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the opening of the mattress, which can cause your child to be stuck while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs have an attached changing area that make diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. While these are convenient, they tend to take up more space than traditional cribs, and might not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials that the crib is made of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Instead, look for a crib that is made of solid wood or with a metal base.