Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting time, but choosing a crib is one of the most crucial decisions you will make. The crib that your baby sleeps in will have a major impact on their development and health whether it's the style of the slats, or the mattress's height.
Examine the crib's hardware frequently. Bolts and nails may get loose over time. Do not place your crib near blinds or drapes hanging because they could pose the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to take into consideration when buying a crib. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, but small enough for you to reach them in a safe manner to take care of them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood, and are fitted with sides that are slatted. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from different angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs are utilized from birth until the child is approximately two years old, when they will need to be moved into a toddler bed.
Most standard cribs come with an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to suit your baby's growth. The lowest setting works best for infants. The highest setting is ideal for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the inside of your crib to be sure that the mattress fits, as the slatted design of most cribs may leave small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer cribs with non-standard sizes 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 rigid or mesh sides, and they tend to be smaller than cribs that are full-size.
If you decide to purchase a crib that is not standard, make sure you 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 be sure that it is not more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover can protect your baby's bedding from spills and accidents. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer to cut down on bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that eliminates allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop-sides, know that they've been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and are banned in the US in 2011. If you do decide to purchase or get a crib with drop sides for your baby be sure to dispose of it when your child is 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 is a place for them to rest and also a place where you can keep them close and see them frequently. There are a variety of brands and models of cribs on the market, each one must be able to meet certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before you put your child in the crib make sure it is clean and free of dander and dust. Also, remove any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any pillows or blankets inside the crib; these can cause suffocation. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should be required to be in compliance with formaldehyde emission standards laid out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be tested to ensure compliance. 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 made of composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Others suggested that the requirement that fasteners are retightened between dynamic tests should be added to the new crib standard. This suggestion is not something we would consider. The shake test and the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and accelerate abuse of cribs. Screws that are loose are the 2nd leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data reveal that the most frequent hazards that are associated with cribs include drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. We have decided to concentrate our focus on these issues and include the standards of performance already in the current mandatory standard. By incorporating by reference, we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
The design of your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. The crib is the main focal point of any nursery, so it is important to select one that fits your style and complements the decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist style or more traditional, there are lots of stylish cribs to choose from. There are options for everyone's budget, from the cheapest to luxurious. Be sure that the crib you choose meets all safety requirements.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specifically designed for infants and children. It features slatted walls to allow for safe ventilation and is often constructed from durable materials such as wood. Cribs can be bigger and more expensive than bassinets however they offer more functionality for the first three years of your child's life.
There are many crib styles available, but all of them must be in compliance with safety standards. For example the crib slats must not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda container) and you should stay clear of ornamental cutouts or patterns in the headboard or footboard.
Additionally, the mattress must fit snugly 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 come with stabilizer bars to aid in keeping the mattress in place. If your crib does not come with stabilizer bars, then you'll need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A great crib also has a low-sitting mattress that helps keep toddlers from stepping over the edge of the crib. This is a fantastic feature for parents with smaller children or rooms that are small in size. However, it is important to verify the mattress height before making your purchase. Most mattresses include a sticker at the corner which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you want an infant crib that grows with your child, consider purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted into an infant's bed, a daybed or even a bed that is full size. Some of the cribs on our list, such as 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, there are a few cribs on the market that are budget-friendly. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is priced at less than 200 dollars and is 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is moderate in high, making it easy to take your child in and out.
mini cot beds that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep and play option is easy to put together and folds in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors or outdoors on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however since your baby will outgrow it after about six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that are suitable for the initial few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. They're more expensive but they are smaller and easier to move. They are not a permanent crib for sleeping and your baby will outgrow it before their first birthday.
A quality crib should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted in four different positions based on the growth of your baby. mini cot beds should be low enough for you to reach in and out of it easily, especially when you're less than 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the opening of the mattress This can cause your child to be stuck while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs come with an attached changing area which can make diapering a little more convenient and quicker. Although they are convenient however, they take up more space than traditional cribs and might not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
Think about the materials the crib is constructed of. Many cribs are constructed of particleboard, which is made up of formaldehyde. Look for a crib that is constructed from solid wood or comes with a metal base instead.