Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery, however, choosing the crib is one of the most crucial decisions. The crib that your baby sleeps will have a significant impact on their development and health whether it's the style of the slats or mattress height.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails can become loose over time. Do not place your crib near drapes or blinds hanging, as they can pose the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying the right crib. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant but small enough that you are able to reach your baby to attend to them. It should also be sturdy enough to stand up to the wear and tear of everyday use.
The majority of cribs are made out of metal or wood, and most have the slatted sides. These features allow caregivers to observe the baby from different angles and promote airflow. Cribs can be used until your child is 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 newborns, whereas the highest setting is ideal for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Take measurements of the crib's interior to ensure the mattress will fit. The slatted design could leave tiny gaps that could be hazardous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer cribs with non-standard sizes and mattresses that meet the same safety standards as standard cribs. These include portable infant beds, bassinets, and play yards. These cribs typically come with mesh or rigid sides, and tend to be smaller than cribs that are full-size.
If you opt for a non-standard crib, check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size guidelines. There may be specific specifications that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. Also, you should test the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure it's not larger than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover can protect your baby's bed from accidents and spills. Choose one with an antimicrobial barrier that helps reduce bacteria, and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're thinking about buying a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were associated with 32 deaths of babies between 2000 and 2010, and have been outlawed in the US from 2011. Even if you intend to buy or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby be sure to dispose of it when your child is 35 inches or has the ability to be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is the most secure spot for your child. It is not only a place to rest but also a place where you can be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are numerous crib models and brands on the market. But, they all have to meet certain safety requirements. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you place your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Remove any toys or stuffed animal that may fall out of the bed. Do not place any pillows or blankets inside the crib. They can lead to the suffocation of children. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should comply with the 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. While these rules are not directly applicable to cribs, the CPSC has ruled 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 new crib standard should contain a requirement to retighten fasteners between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not a good idea for us. The shake test and the vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and increase the crib abuse. The loose screw is the second most common cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based on EWS incident data. These data indicate that the two most frequent crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. Therefore, we decided to concentrate on these concerns in the rulemaking process and to include the performance standards already contained in the existing mandatory standard, with reference. By reference incorporation is the best method to ensure the safety of cribs is maintained in a consistent and efficient manner.
Style
It's a satisfying and exciting experience designing your baby's nursery. The crib is the focal feature of any nursery, so pick one that matches your style and complements the decor. If you're looking for a contemporary and minimalist style or more traditional, there's a wide selection of stylish cribs to choose from. There are options for every price range, from the cheapest to upscale. Be sure that the crib you select meets all of the required safety guidelines.
A crib is a small special bed designed specifically for infants and children. It is made of sturdy materials such as wood and features slatted wall paneling to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets and can be more expensive, however they offer more functionality for your child's early years.
There are a variety of types of cribs on the market, but they all must meet strict safety standards. For instance the crib slats must not exceed 6 centimeters apart (that's approximately the size of a soda container) and you should stay clear of ornamental cutouts or patterns on the footboard or headboard.
The mattress should be able to fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and mattress can cause babies' arms and legs to get caught in the crib. Many cribs include bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, make sure you purchase an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A good crib also has a low sitting mattress level that helps keep children from climbing over the crib's edge. This is a great feature for parents with smaller children or rooms that are small in space. However, make sure to check out the mattress height before making your purchase. The majority of mattresses will include a sticker at the corner which lists the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
Consider purchasing an adjustable crib if you would like your crib to expand with your child. These types of cribs can be turned into toddler beds, a daybed and even a full-size bed. Certain cribs, such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 have conversion kits. The rest will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While most cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars, there are a few cribs available on the market that are budget-friendly. cots to tots in 1 Crib is less than 200 dollars and has been 5 stars rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium height profile which makes it easier for you to get your baby in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. The portable sleep and play option is easy to assemble and folds up in a few minutes. It can be used inside or outside, on decks or patios. It is suitable for babies weighing up to 15 pounds. It is not a permanent sleep solution, however as your baby will outgrow it after about six months.
You can also find affordable bassinets and cradles can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. They're more expensive, but they are also smaller and easier to move. However, they're only a temporary solution for sleeping and your baby is likely to outgrow them before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that can be adjusted into four different positions, based on your baby's growth. It should be low enough to allow you to reach in and out of it easily, especially in the case of children under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are over 1 8 inches above the mattress's opening This can cause your child to be trapped while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs come with attached changing areas which can make diapering a bit easier and faster. While they are useful but they can take up more space than traditional cribs, and might not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
Think about the materials your crib is made of. Many cribs are made of particleboard, which is made up of formaldehyde. Instead, opt for a crib made from solid wood or with a steel base.