Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery, however, choosing the crib will be one of the most important decisions. It doesn't matter what style of slats, mattress height or the ability to convert the crib the baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails could get loose over time. Be sure to avoid placing your crib near drapes or window blinds that hang down, which could pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
When shopping for the perfect crib size is a crucial aspect. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, but small enough so that you are able to reach your baby in order to talk to them. It should also be durable enough to stand up to the wear and tear of everyday use.
The majority of cribs are constructed of metal or wood and come with side panels that are slatted. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and to ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs can be used up until your child reaches the age of two.
Most standard cribs have a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is suitable for infants, whereas the highest setting is ideal for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Make sure you measure the inside of your crib to be sure the mattress will fit as the slatted structure of most cribs may leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that meet the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include play yards as well as portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than the standard cribs and have mesh or rigid sides.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size in case you select a crib that isn't standard. There could be specific specifications that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. Also, you should examine the space between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure that it is not greater than 1 inch. This is the maximum safe distance.
A waterproof cover can protect your baby's bed from accidents and spills. Select one that has an antimicrobial barrier that helps reduce bacteria, and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib that has drop-sides, you should know that they've been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and are banned in the US as of. Even if you decide to purchase a crib with a drop-side or receive one from a friend ensure that you get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to climb out.
recommended cribs is the most secure place for your child. It's not just an area to rest, but also a place to be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are a variety of crib models and brands available on the market. However, all must meet certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before putting your child in the crib, make sure that it is clean, free of dander and dust. Also, take away top ranked cribs or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Also, don't use any blankets or pillows in the crib; these can cause the suffocation of children. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must comply with the formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be tested to ensure compliance. The CPSC has concluded that, although these rules do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is still appropriate to require the compliance of this law.
Some commenters suggested that the requirement that fasteners are tightened after dynamic tests should be included in the new crib standard. We strongly disagree with this suggestion. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to replicate and speed up the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the second most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on EWS incident information. These data indicate that the two most frequent crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to focus our attention on these concerns and incorporate the performance standards already incorporated into the existing mandatory standard. By incorporating by reference, we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
Designing your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding experience. 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 plenty of chic cribs to pick from. There are cribs for every budget, from the cheapest to luxurious. Be sure that the crib you choose conforms to all safety guidelines.
A crib is a compact special bed designed specifically for infants and children. It is constructed with slatted walls to allow for an airy environment and is typically constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are often larger and more expensive than bassinets, but they are more functional for the first three years of your child's existence.
There are a variety of crib designs that are available, however all must be safe to use. For example, the crib slats should be no more than 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda bottle), and you should stay clear of ornamental cutouts or patterns on the footboard or headboard.
In addition, the mattress must fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the mattress and crib can cause infants legs or arms to become entangled. best cots include stabilizer bars to help keep the mattress in place. If your crib does not have stabilizer bars, you'll need to purchase an additional mattress pad for support.
A good crib also has a low sitting mattress level that prevents children from stepping over the crib's edge. It's a great feature for smaller families or rooms that are small, but be sure to verify the mattress's height prior to you purchase. Most mattresses include a sticker on the corner, which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
Consider buying an adjustable crib if you want your crib to change 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 cribs on our list, including 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 in the hundreds of dollars however, there are a few cribs available on the market that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib, for example, costs less than $200 and is rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a profile that is medium high, making it easy to get your child in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another crib that is budget-friendly. It is easy to set up and folds down in two minutes. It can be used inside or outside, on a deck or patio. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleep solution, however as your baby will grow out of it after about six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that can be used for the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby close and comfortable. They're more expensive but they are smaller and easier to move. However, they're only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A good crib should include a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted in four different positions based on the development of your baby. It should be low enough to allow you to reach into and out of it easily, especially if you're under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that extend higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress opening, which can cause your baby to be trapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs have attached changing areas which can help diapering a bit easier and faster. While these are convenient but they can take up more floor space than traditional cribs and might not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials that the crib is made of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Instead, look for a crib made of solid wood or with a metal base.