Choosing a Baby Crib

The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting experience, but selecting the right crib is among the most crucial decisions you will make. It doesn't matter what style of slats, the mattress height or the ability to convert, the crib your baby sleeps in will impact their development and health.

Make sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Bolts and nails can become loose over time. Be sure to avoid placing your crib close to curtains or window blinds that hang down, which could present a risk of strangulation 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 sleeping baby, but small enough for you to be able to reach them easily and care for them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.

The majority of cribs are made from wood or metal and have sides that are slatted. These features are designed to allow caregivers to view the baby from different angles and to ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.

Most cribs are equipped with the mattress height which can be adjusted to suit your baby's growth. The lowest setting is best for newborns. The highest setting is for babies who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the inside of your crib to be sure the mattress will fit because the slatted style of most cribs may leave small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.

Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include play yards as well as portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs often come with mesh or rigid sides, and tend to be smaller than cribs that are full-size.

If you decide to purchase a non-standard crib, look up the manufacturer's guidelines to determine mattress size recommendations. There could be specific specifications that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. You should also check 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 bedding from spills and accidents. Choose one with an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.

If you're considering a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were linked to 32 baby deaths between 2000 and 2010. They have been banned in the US from 2011. If you do decide to purchase a crib with drop sides or get one from a friend ensure that you remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to get out.

Safety

A baby crib is one of the safest places to let your child sleep. It's a space to relax but also a space where you can keep them close and check on them often. There are a variety of cribs and brands 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 cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.

Before you put your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, take out any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Also, don't use any pillows or blankets inside the crib, as they can cause suffocation. Instead, use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.

Some commenters suggested cribs should conform to formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be tested for conformity. Although these regulations don't directly apply to cribs, the CPSC has decided 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 new crib standard should include a requirement to retighten fasteners after dynamic tests. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test are designed to mimic and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screws are the second leading cause of fatalities in cribs.

Other comments were based upon the EWS incident information. These data show that the two most frequent crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We have decided to concentrate our attention on these issues and incorporate the performance standards already incorporated into the standard that is currently mandatory. Incorporation by reference is the best way to ensure that the safety of cribs is ensured in a uniform and effective manner.

Style

The design of your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding experience. The crib is the main focal element of any nursery, so choose one that suits your style and compliments the decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist design or more traditional, there are lots of stylish cribs to choose from. There are cots and tots for every budget, from affordable to high-end. Make sure the crib you pick meets all safety requirements.

A crib is a small crib designed especially for babies and infants. It is made of sturdy materials like wood and has slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs can be larger and more expensive than bassinets, but offer greater functionality during the initial three years of your child's life.

There are a variety of crib styles available, but all of them must be safe to use. The crib's slats for instance, shouldn't exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a bottle of soda) apart. You should also avoid cutting outs or decorative shapes in the headboard and footboard.

The mattress should also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the mattress and crib can cause infants legs or arms to get caught in. Many cribs have stabilizer bars that assist in keeping the mattress in position. But if you have a crib that doesn't, be sure to buy a mattress pad for extra support.

A mattress that is low-level is another advantage of a good crib that can help keep toddlers from climbing the crib's edge. This is a great feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are restricted in space. However, it is important to measure the mattress's height prior your purchase. Most mattresses have a sticker on the corner, which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum heights.

If you're looking for a crib that can grow with your child, think about buying a convertible crib. These types of cribs can be converted into an infant bed, a daybed and even a bed that is full size. Certain cribs, such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1, come with conversion kits. The rest will require an extra purchase.


Budget

While most cribs cost hundreds of dollars However, there are some cribs that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is priced at less than 200 dollars and has been rated 5 stars by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium height profile, which makes it easy to take your baby into and out.

The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another crib that is budget-friendly. This portable crib for sleep and play is easy to put together and folds in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors or outside, on a patio or deck. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It is not designed to be a permanent solution for sleeping because your child will grow out of the product within six months.

You can also find affordable bassinets and cradles that you can use for the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. While they are a bit more expensive than a standard crib they are also smaller and easier to move around. However, they are only a short-term sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.

A crib that is of good quality will include a mattress support that is strong and secure, and is able to be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's weight. It must also be low enough to let you reach in and out easily, especially when you are less than 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress's opening, which can cause your child to get trapped while they play or attempt to climb.

Some cribs have attached changing areas which can make diapering a bit easier and faster. While these are convenient but they can take up more space than traditional cribs and may not be the best option for smaller nurseries.

You should also think about the materials that the crib is constructed of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Find a crib that is constructed from solid wood or comes with an aluminum base instead.