Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery, but choosing the crib is one of the most important decisions. The style of slats, mattress height or the capability to convert, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.
Be aware that nails and bolts may be loose in time, so be sure to check your crib's hardware frequently. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to drapes or blinds that hang, as they can pose the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a crib. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleeping infant but small enough that you are able to reach your child to listen to them. It should be strong enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood and a majority include the slatted sides. These features allow caregivers to view the baby from various angles and encourage airflow. Cribs are available until your child reaches the age of two.
The majority of cribs come with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting works best for infants. The highest setting is for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the inside of your crib to make sure the mattress will fit because the slatted style of most cribs may leave small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Manufacturers have cribs and mattresses that aren't standard sizes, but meet the same safety standards. These include bassinets for infants, portable cribs, and play yards. These cribs are smaller than the standard ones and come with rigid or mesh sides.
If you decide to purchase a non-standard crib, check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress sizes. They might have requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress size of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. You should also check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure that it is not greater than one inch. This is the maximum safe distance.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bed from accidents and spills. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that eliminates bacteria and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib that has drop-sides, be aware that they have been linked to the deaths of 32 infants between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US as of 2011. If you do decide to purchase a crib with drop sides or receive one as a gift, be sure to remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or can get out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the most secure place for your child. It is not only an area for rest but also a place to see and hold them frequently. While there are many different brands and models of cribs available all of them must comply with certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you place your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean, free of dander and dust. Also, take out any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Don't put any blankets or pillows in the crib. They could cause the suffocation of children. Make use of a fitted sheet and a mattress cover instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should comply with the formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199), and cribs made from composite wood should be tested to ensure compliance. While these rules don't directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has ruled that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture made from composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Others suggested that the requirement that fasteners be retightened between 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 simulate and speed up the use and abuse of cribs by children. The loose screw is the second most common cause of crib fatalities.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident data. These data show that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are mattresses that are not safe and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular attention on these issues and incorporate the performance standards already incorporated into the standard that is currently mandatory. By incorporating by reference, we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It is a rewarding and exciting experience designing your baby's nursery. The crib is the main focal feature of any nursery, so it is important to choose one that suits your style and complements the decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist style or more traditional, there's a wide selection of chic cribs to pick from. There are cribs for every budget, 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 specifically designed for infants and babies. It is made of sturdy materials like wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, but they are more functional for your baby's first three years of life.
There are many crib styles that are available, however all must be in compliance with safety standards. For instance the crib slats need to not exceed 6 centimeters apart (that's roughly the width of a soda can) and you should avoid using ornamental cutouts or patterns in the footboard or headboard.
Additionally, the mattress must fit snugly within the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the crib and the mattress could allow infants' arms or legs to get entangled. Many cribs include bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. If your crib doesn't come with stabilizer bars, then you'll need to buy a mattress pad as extra support.
why not try these out -level mattress is another characteristic of a good crib that prevents toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. This is a fantastic feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are limited in space. But, be sure to verify the mattress height before making your purchase. Most mattresses will include a sticker at the corner which lists the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
You should consider buying an adjustable crib if you want your crib to grow with your child. These types of cribs can be converted into an infant bed or a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Certain cribs, such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 have conversion kits. 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 affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is priced at less than 200 dollars and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium-height profile which makes it easier for you to get your baby in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another crib that is budget-friendly. This portable play and sleep option is simple to set up and folds down in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors or outdoors on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not a permanent sleep solution, however because your baby will outgrow it in about six months.
There are also affordable bassinets and cradles that can be used for the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. They are more expensive but they are smaller and easier to move. However, they are only a temporary sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A good crib will include a mattress support that is sturdy and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's weight. It should be low enough for you to reach in and out of it easily, especially when you're less than 5'5. Some cribs have posts that extend more than 1 8 inch above the mattress opening which could cause your child to be trapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs come with attached changing areas that makes diaper changing simpler and faster. These are convenient however they require more space than traditional cribs. They might not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials that the crib is made of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Look for a crib made from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.