Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery however, choosing the crib is one of your most crucial choices. The crib that your baby sleeps in will have a major impact on their health and development, whether it is the style of the slats or mattress height.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails can become loose over time. Also, avoid placing your crib near window blinds or drapes that hang, which can present a risk of strangulation for your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to consider when shopping for a crib. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleeping infant, but small enough so that you are able to reach your baby to attend to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood and a majority come with the slatted sides. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and to ensure adequate air flow. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress height that can be adjusted to suit the baby's growing needs. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns, while the highest setting is suitable 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 is suitable because the slatted style of a lot of cribs leave small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Manufacturers offer cribs and mattresses that are not standard sizes, yet comply with the same safety standards. These include bassinets, portable infant beds, and play yards. These cribs usually have mesh or rigid sides, and are usually smaller than cribs that are full-size.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose a crib that isn't standard. There could be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. You should also be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure it is not more than one inch. This is the minimum safe distance.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's mattress from accidents and spills. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that reduces bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop sides, you should be aware that they were linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010. They have been banned in the US since 2011. If you do decide to purchase or receive a crib with drop sides be sure to dispose of it when your child is 35 inches or has the ability to climb out.
Baby Cot Bed is the most secure spot for your child. It's not just a place to rest but also a place to observe and hold them often. There are a variety of cribs and brands available, each one must be able to meet certain safety standards. These standards are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before putting your baby in the crib, make sure the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Take away any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any blankets or pillows in the crib; these can cause suffocation. Use a fitted sheet and a mattress cover instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must be in compliance with 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 determine if they are in compliance. While these rules do not directly apply to cribs however, the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Some commenters suggested that the new crib standard should include a requirement to retighten fasteners in between dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this idea. The shake test as well as the vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and accelerate crib abuse. Screws that are loose are the second leading cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based on EWS incident data. These data reveal that the most common hazards associated with cribs are dangerous mattresses and drop-sides. We therefore decided to focus on these issues in the rulemaking process and to incorporate the performance standards already included in the current mandatory standard through reference. The incorporation of reference standards is the best method to ensure the cribs' safety is maintained in a uniform and effective way.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting process to design your baby's nursery. The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so you should choose one that suits your style and complements the decor. There are numerous chic cribs available, whether you want something modern and minimalist or traditional. You can find options in every price range, from budget to upscale. Just be certain that the crib you select meets all of the required safety guidelines.
A crib is a tiny special bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It is constructed with slatted walls to allow for safe ventilation and is often constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, but they provide more functions for your child's early years.
There are a variety of types of cribs that are available on the market, however they all have to meet strict safety standards. The crib's slats for instance, should not be more than 6 centimeters (about the width of a can of soda) apart. You should also avoid cutting outs or decorative shapes on the footboard and headboard.
The mattress should also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the crib and mattress could allow infants' arms or legs to get entangled. A lot of cribs have bars for stability to help keep the mattress in place. If your crib doesn't have stabilizer bars, you will need to purchase an additional mattress pad for support.
A great crib also has a low sitting mattress level that helps keep children from climbing over the edge of the crib. This is an excellent feature for parents with small children or rooms that are limited in space. But, be sure to measure the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. Most mattresses will include a sticker on the corner, which shows the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you are looking for a crib that can grow with your child, consider buying a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into a toddler's bed, a daybed or even a bed that is full size. Some cribs on our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits included. The rest will require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs cost hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is priced at less than 200 dollars and is rated 5 stars by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is moderate in height, making it simple to get your child in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. It is simple to put together and folds up in two minutes. It can be used indoors or outside on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not designed to be a long-term solution for sleeping because your child will outgrow it after six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that are suitable for the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby close and comfortable. They're more expensive however they are smaller and easier to move. However, they're only a temporary solution for sleeping and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality will have a mattress support that is strong and secure, and can be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's height. It must also be low enough to allow you to reach in and out easily, especially in the case of children under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that stand more than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening which can cause your child to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs come with attached changing areas that makes diaper changing easier and faster. Although they are convenient however, they take up more space than traditional cribs and might not be the ideal choice for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials the crib is constructed of. Many traditional cribs are made from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Choose a crib that is made out of solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.