Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting time, however picking a crib is one of the most crucial decisions you will make. It doesn't matter what design of the slats, mattress height or the capability to convert, the crib the baby sleeps in will impact their health and development.
Be aware that nails and bolts can wiggle loose over time, so check your crib's hardware frequently. Be sure to avoid placing your crib close to curtains or window blinds that hang, which can pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying a crib. The crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy baby, yet small enough to allow you to be able to reach them easily and care for them. It should also be sturdy enough to stand up to the wear and tear of regular use.
The majority of cribs are made out of metal or wood, and most include sliding sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from various angles and ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs are available until your child is of two.
Most standard cribs have a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns, while the highest setting is good for babies who can sit up or crawl. Make sure you measure the inside of your crib to be sure that the mattress is suitable because the slatted style of most cribs can leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer cribs with non-standard sizes and mattresses that meet the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds and play yards. These cribs are smaller than the standard ones and have rigid or mesh sides.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you decide to purchase a crib that isn't standard. There could be specific requirements that are different from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. Also, you should be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure that it is not greater than 1 inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof mattress cover can help keep it clean and protected from accidents or spit-up. Select one that has an antimicrobial barrier that helps reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you are considering a crib with drop-sides, be aware that they've been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and were banned in the US in 2011. If you do decide to purchase or get a drop-side baby crib ensure that you get rid of it once your child is 35 inches or is able to get out.
Safety
A baby crib is the most secure place for your child. It is a place to relax and 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. These standards are established 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, free of dander and dust. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Do not place any pillows or blankets inside the crib. They could cause the suffocation of children. Make use of a fitted sheet and a mattress cover.
Some commenters suggested cribs should comply with the formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be inspected to ensure conformity. Although these requirements don't directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has ruled that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture made of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Some commenters suggested that the requirement that fasteners are tightened after dynamic tests should be added to the new crib standard. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The shake test as well as the vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and increase the abuse of cribs. The loose screw is the second most common cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident records. These data show that the most frequently cited hazards that are associated with cribs include dangerous mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular attention on these concerns and to incorporate the standards of performance already in the existing mandatory standard. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting experience to design your baby's nursery. The focal point of any nursery is the crib, so it is essential to pick one that matches your style and complements the room's decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist style or more traditional, there's a wide selection of chic cribs to pick from. There are options available in every price range, from affordable to upscale. Be sure that the crib you select conforms to all safety guidelines.
A crib is a tiny special bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It has slatted walls that allow for 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 existence.
There are many crib styles that are available, however all must be safe to use. For instance the crib slats must not exceed 6 centimeters apart (that's roughly the width of a soda bottle) and you should avoid using decorative cutouts or shapes in the headboard or footboard.
The mattress must also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the crib and mattress could allow infants' arms or legs to get caught in. Many cribs have bars for stabilization that aid in keeping the mattress in position. But if you have a crib that doesn't have them, be sure to buy an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A quality crib also comes with a low-sitting mattress, which helps prevent children from stepping over the edge of the crib. It's a great feature for smaller families or rooms that are small Be sure to measure the mattress height before you purchase. Most mattresses include a sticker on the corner that lists the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you're looking for a crib that can grow with your child, you should consider purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted into an infant's bed, a daybed, or even a full-size bed. A few of the cribs in our list, such as the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with conversion kits included. The rest will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced at hundreds of dollars However, there are some cribs that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib, for example, costs less than $200 and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a profile that is moderate in height, making it simple to get your child inside and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. This portable sleep-and-play option is easy to assemble and folds down in two minutes. It can be used indoors or out on a deck or patio. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a long-term solution for sleeping as your child will grow out of the product after six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that are suitable for the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby in a safe and secure environment. Although they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easier to move around. But, best cots sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality will have a mattress support that is solid and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's height. It should be low enough to allow you to reach in and out of it easily, especially if you're under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that extend more than 1 8 inch above the opening of the mattress that could cause your child to become trapped while they play or attempt to climb.
Some cribs come with an attached changing area 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 a suitable choice for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials the crib is made of. A lot of cribs are made from particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Find a crib that is constructed out of solid wood or has a metal base instead.
