Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting time, but selecting the crib is one of the most crucial choices you will make. The crib where your baby sleeps in will have a major impact on their development and health regardless of the design of the slats or mattress height.
Make sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Bolts and nails could become loose over time. Be sure to avoid placing your crib close to drapes or window blinds that dangle, which create a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
When shopping for the perfect crib, size is an important factor. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, yet small enough to allow you to reach them in a safe manner to care for them. It should be strong enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed from metal or wood and a majority come with the slatted sides. These features allow caregivers to view the baby from various angles and promote airflow. Cribs are available 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 best for infants, whereas the highest setting is suitable for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Check the crib's dimensions to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted structure can leave small gaps which could be hazardous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds and play yards. These cribs typically come with mesh or rigid sides, and tend to be smaller than the full-size cribs.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose a crib that isn't standard. They might have requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also important to check 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 for your baby's mattress can keep it clean and secure from spills or accidents. Choose one with an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop sides, you should be aware that they were linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and have been outlawed in the US since. 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 get out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the most secure spot for your child. It is not only an area to rest, but also a place to see and hold them frequently. There are numerous crib models and brands available on the market. However, all must meet certain safety requirements. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that the cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before putting your baby in the crib, make sure the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Take away any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the bed. Use no blankets or pillows within the crib. They can lead to suffocation. Instead, you should use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
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 inspected to ensure conformity. While these rules do not directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has decided that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Some commenters suggested that a requirement that fasteners be tightened after dynamic tests should be included in the crib standard being revised. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to mimic and speed up the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screws are the second leading cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident data. The data shows that the most common hazards that are associated with cribs include drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. We therefore decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking process and to include the performance standards already included in the current mandatory standard through reference. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that crib safety is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting experience to design your baby's nursery. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, so it's important to choose one that is in keeping with your style and compliments your room's décor. There are a variety of chic cribs available, whether you want something contemporary and minimalist or traditional. You can find options in every price range, from affordable to luxurious. Be sure that the crib you select is safe and meets all safety standards.
A crib is a compact bed that is specially designed for infants and children. It is constructed from sturdy materials like wood and features slatted wall paneling to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, however they offer more functionality for your child's the first three years of life.
There are a variety of crib styles available, but all must be in compliance with safety standards. The crib slats, as an instance, shouldn't exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. It is also recommended to beware of cutouts or ornaments in the headboard and footboard.
In addition the mattress should fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and the mattress could allow infants' arms or legs to become 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 mattress that is low in height is another feature of a quality crib that prevents toddlers from climbing the crib's edge. This is a fantastic feature for parents with smaller children or rooms that are small in size. However, it is important to check out the mattress's height prior your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will show the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
You should consider buying a convertible crib if would like your crib to expand with your child. These types of cribs can be turned into a toddler bed, a daybed and even a full-size bed. A few of the cribs in our list, such as the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits that are included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost in the hundreds of dollars There are a few cribs available on the market that are budget-friendly. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib, for example, costs less than $200 and has been highly rated 5 stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a profile that is medium height, making it easy to get your child inside and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable crib for sleep and play is easy to install and folds away in just a few 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 intended to be a long-term solution for sleeping because your child will grow out of the product after six months.
You can also find affordable bassinets and cradles you can use for the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. While they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also smaller and easier to move around. But, they're only a short-term sleeping solution and your baby is likely to outgrow them before the first birthday.
A good crib will include a mattress support that is solid and secure, and is able to be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's weight. It should be low enough to allow you to reach in and out of it easily, particularly when you're less than 5'5 inches. online cots feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening which can cause your baby to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs have attached changing areas which can make diapering a bit easier and faster. They are useful, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be a good option for smaller nurseries.
Take a look at the materials your crib is constructed of. Many cribs are constructed of particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Instead, opt for a crib that is made of solid wood or with a metal base.