Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting experience, but picking the right crib is among the most crucial choices you'll ever make. Whether it's the style of slats, mattress height or the capability to convert the crib the baby sleeps in will impact their health and development.
Make sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Bolts and nails could become loose over time. Also, avoid placing your crib close to drapes or window blinds that hang, which can present a risk of strangulation for your baby.
Size
When choosing a crib the size is a key aspect. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, yet small enough that you are able to safely reach your child to listen to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
Most cribs are made of metal or wood, and are fitted with slatted side panels. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and to ensure proper air flow. Cribs are utilized from birth until your child is around two years old. older, at which point they will have to be moved to a toddler bed.
Most standard cribs have a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is best for infants. The highest setting is ideal for babies who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the inside of your crib to make sure that the mattress is suitable because the slatted style of most cribs can create small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Manufacturers have cribs and mattresses that aren't standard sizes, but still meet the same safety standards. These include play yards, portable infant beds, and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than full-size cribs and have solid or mesh sides.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size if you decide to purchase a crib that isn't standard. There may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Also, you should check the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof mattress cover can help keep it clean and protected from spills or accidents. Find one that has an antimicrobial layer to cut down on the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop-sides, be aware that they have been linked to the deaths of 32 infants between 2000 and 2010, and are banned in the US as of 2011. If you do decide to buy a drop-side crib or receive one as a hand-me-down make sure you get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or has the ability to be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the most secure spot for your child. It is not only an area for rest but also where you can observe and hold them often. There are a myriad of brands and models of cribs available 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 that cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you place your child in the crib make sure that it is clean, free of dust and dander. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any blankets or pillows in the crib, as they can cause the suffocation of children. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to be in compliance with formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be inspected for conformity. The CPSC has determined that, although these requirements do NOT directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is a good idea to require compliance with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement to tighten fasteners between dynamic tests. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to simulate 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 on the EWS incident information. These data reveal that the most frequently cited dangers associated with cribs are drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking and to include the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard through reference. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that crib safety is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
It is a rewarding and exciting experience designing your baby's nursery. The crib is the main focal element of any nursery, so choose one that suits your style and complements the decor. There are a variety of stylish cribs available, whether you want something modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are options for every price range, from the cheapest to high-end. Make sure the crib you choose has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specially designed for infants and babies. It features slatted walls to allow for adequate ventilation and is usually constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs can be bigger and more expensive than bassinets, but they are more functional during the initial three years of your child's existence.
There are crib sets , but all of them must meet safety standards. For example the crib slats need to be no more than 6 centimeters apart (that's approximately the size of a soda container) and you should stay clear of decorative cutouts or shapes in the headboard or footboard.
The mattress must be able to fit snugly into the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the mattress and crib could allow infants' arms or legs to get entangled. A lot of cribs have stabilizer bars 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 quality crib also comes with a low sitting mattress level, which helps prevent children from stepping over the edge of the crib. It's a great option for smaller families or rooms with limited space Be sure to measure the mattress height before you make your purchase. Most mattresses have a label at the corner which lists the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
If you are looking for a crib that can grow with your child, think about purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted into the toddler's bed, a daybed or even a bed that is full size. A few cribs on our list, like 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 are priced at hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib costs less than 200 dollars and is 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is medium height, making it simple to get your child in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another crib that is budget-friendly. This portable crib for sleep and play is simple to install and folds away in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors or out on a patio or deck. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however, as your baby will outgrow it in approximately six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cribs that can be used for the first few months, which allows you to keep your baby snug and close. They are more expensive, but they are also smaller and easier to move. But, they're only a temporary sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A quality crib should include a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted to four different positions, based on the growth of your baby. It must also be low enough to allow you to reach in and out easily, especially when you are less than 5'5. Some cribs have posts that extend higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which can cause your baby to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs come with separate changing rooms that can make diapering a bit easier and faster. While these are convenient, they tend to take up more floor space than traditional cribs and may not be the ideal choice for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials your crib is constructed of. cot beds for sale of cribs made from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Instead, look for a crib made from solid wood or with a steel base.