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. The crib where your baby sleeps will have a significant impact on their development and health, whether it is the style of the slats, or the mattress's height.
Make sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Bolts and nails could get loose over time. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to blinds or drapes that hang because they could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to consider when purchasing the perfect crib. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant but small enough that you are able to safely reach your child to listen to them. It should also be durable enough to stand up to the wear and tear of everyday use.
The majority of cribs are made out of metal or wood, and the majority of them come with sliding sides. These features allow caregivers to view the baby from various angles and encourage airflow. Cribs can be used up until your child reaches the age of two.
Most cribs are equipped with the mattress height which can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's development. The lowest setting works best for infants. The highest setting is for babies who can sit up or crawl. Measure the crib's interior to ensure that the mattress will fit. The slatted design can leave small gaps which could be dangerous for your baby.
Manufacturers have cribs and mattresses that are not standard sizes, yet have the same safety standards. These include bassinets for infants, portable cribs, and play yards. These cribs are smaller than the standard ones and have rigid or mesh sides.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size if you select a crib that isn't standard. They may have specific specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress dimension of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also important to check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure that it is not greater than one inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof cover for your baby's mattress can keep it clean and protected from spills or accidents. Choose one with an antimicrobial layer that eliminates bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib that has drop-sides, you should know that they have been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and were banned in the US as of. If you do decide to purchase a crib with drop sides or get one from a friend make sure you get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or can climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is the safest place for your child. It's not just an area to rest, but also where you can observe and hold them often. While there are many different brands and models of cribs available each one must be able to meet certain safety standards. These standards are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure the cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you place your child in the crib, make sure it is clean and free of dander and dust. Remove any toys or stuffed animals that could fall off the bed. Also, don't use any pillows or blankets inside the crib as they could cause death by suffocation. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should conform to formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be tested to determine if they are in conformity. Although these regulations do not directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has ruled that it is appropriate to mandate that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the requirement that fasteners be tightened after dynamic tests should be added to the crib standard that is being developed. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to mimic and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the second leading cause of crib deaths.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data reveal that the most common dangers associated with cribs are dangerous mattresses and drop-sides. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these concerns in the rulemaking process and to include the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard by reference. By incorporating by reference, we can ensure that crib safety is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting process to design your baby's nursery. The focal point of any nursery is the crib, so it is essential to pick one that fits your style and matches the room's decor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist design or more traditional, there's a wide selection of chic cribs to pick from. There are options for everyone's budget, from the cheapest to upscale. Be sure that the crib you pick conforms to all safety guidelines.
A crib is a small bed that is specifically designed for babies and infants. It features slatted walls to ensure safe ventilation and is often constructed from durable materials such as wood. Cribs are often larger and more expensive than bassinets, but offer greater functionality during the first three years of your child's life.
There are many styles of cribs available on the market, but they all must meet strict safety standards. The crib slats, for instance, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a bottle of soda) apart. You should also beware of cutouts or ornaments on the footboard and headboard.
In addition the mattress should be able to fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and mattress can cause babies legs and arms to become entangled. A lot of cribs have bars for stability to help keep the mattress in place. But if you have an unstabilized crib, make sure you purchase a mattress pad for extra support.
A good crib also has a low-sitting mattress, which helps prevent toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. This is an excellent feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are limited in size. However, it is important to measure the mattress's height prior your purchase. The corner of the majority of mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
Consider purchasing a convertible crib if you want your crib to grow with your child. These cribs can be converted into an infant's bed, a daybed or even a bed that is full size. A few of the cribs in our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with conversion kits that are included. The rest will require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars however, there are a few cribs available on the market that are budget friendly. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib, for example, costs 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 easier to take your baby into and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. It is easy to assemble and folds in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or out on a deck or patio. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however, because your baby will outgrow it in about six months.
There are also budget-friendly cradles and bassinets that can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby safe and close. They're more expensive, but they are also smaller and easier to move. But, they're only a short-term sleeping solution and your baby is likely to outgrow them before the first birthday.
A quality crib should be sturdy and solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted in four different positions, depending on your baby's growth. It must be low enough to allow you to reach into and out easily, especially if you are under 5'5 inches. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening, which could cause your child to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs feature 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 choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials the crib is made of. Many cribs are constructed of particleboard, which is made up of formaldehyde. Instead, choose a crib that is made of solid wood or with a metal base.