Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting time, but choosing the right crib is among the most crucial decisions you'll ever make. The crib in which your baby sleeps in will have a major impact on their development and health regardless of the style of the slats or mattress's height.
Keep in mind that bolts and nails can be loose in time, so be sure to check your crib's hardware frequently. Do not place your crib near drapes or blinds that hang on the ceiling, as they could create the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
When choosing a crib the size is a key factor. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleeping infant, but small enough so that you can safely reach your baby in order to talk to them. It should also be durable enough to stand up to the wear and tear of regular use.
The majority of cribs are constructed of metal or wood, and are fitted with slatted side panels. These features allow caregivers to see the baby from various angles and also encourage airflow. Cribs are utilized from birth until your child is around two years old. old, when they will require moving into a toddler bed.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress height that can be adjusted to suit your baby's development. The lowest setting is ideal for infants, whereas the highest setting is ideal for babies who sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to make sure that the mattress is suitable because the slatted style of most cribs may create small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Manufacturers offer mattresses and cribs that are not standard sizes, yet have the same safety standards. These include play yards, portable infant beds, and bassinets. These cribs typically come with mesh or rigid sides, and are usually smaller than full-size cribs.
If you opt for a non-standard crib, review the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size recommendations. They might have requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Also, you should be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure that it is not greater than one inch. This is the minimum safe distance.
A waterproof cover can protect your baby's mattress from spills and accidents. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that stops allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop-sides, know that they've been linked to the deaths of 32 infants between 2000 and 2010, and are banned in the US as of. Even if you decide to purchase a crib with a drop-side or get one as a hand-me-down make sure you remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or can get out.
Safety
A baby crib is among the most secure places for your child to sleep. It is not only a place to rest but also where you can observe and hold them often. There are a variety of crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all must meet certain safety requirements. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before you place your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Don't put any blankets or pillows in the crib. They can lead to the suffocation of children. Use a fitted sheet or a mattress cover.
Some commenters suggested cribs should conform to formaldehyde emissions standards as outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be inspected to determine if they are in conformity. The CPSC has concluded that, although these requirements do NOT directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is still appropriate to require compliance with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement to tighten fasteners after dynamic tests. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The shake test and the vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and accelerate abuse of cribs. Screws that are loose are the second leading cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident information. The data shows that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to focus our focus on these issues and include the performance standards already included in the current mandatory standard. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting experience designing your baby's nursery. The centerpiece of any nursery is the crib, therefore it's crucial to choose a crib that fits your style and compliments your room's decor. There are many chic cribs available that you can choose from contemporary and minimalist or traditional. There are options available in every price range, from the cheapest to upscale. Make sure the crib you select has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a small special bed designed specifically for infants and babies. It is made of sturdy materials like wood, and features slatted wall paneling to allow safe ventilation. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets and can be more expensive, but they are more functional for your baby's the first three years of life.
There are many crib styles available, but all of them must be safe to use. The crib slats, for instance, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a can of soda) apart. Also, you should beware of cutouts or ornaments on the footboard and headboard.
Additionally, the mattress must be able to fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants legs and arms to become entangled. Many cribs have stabilizer bars that aid in keeping the mattress in place. But if you have a crib that doesn't, make sure you purchase an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A mattress that is low-level is another feature of a good crib that helps to prevent children from climbing up the crib's edge. It's a great feature for smaller families or rooms that are small, but be sure to verify the mattress's height prior to you make your purchase. The corners of many mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
Consider buying a convertible crib if would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be transformed into toddler beds as well as a daybed or a full-size bed. Certain cribs, such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1, come with conversion kits. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib is one of them. It costs less than $200 and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a profile that is moderate in height, making it easy to get your child in and out.
Another budget-friendly crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable crib for sleep and play is simple to set up and folds down in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or outside, on a deck or patio. 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 after approximately six months.
There are also affordable nursery cots and cradles that are suitable for the beginning of the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. While they are a bit more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easy to move around. But, they're only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby is likely to outgrow them before the first birthday.
A quality crib will have a mattress support that is strong and secure, and can be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's size. It must be low enough for you to reach in and out of it easily, especially in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are more than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which can cause your child to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs have an attached changing area which can make diapering a little easier and faster. Although they are convenient but they can take up more floor space than traditional cribs, and might not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
Think about the materials the crib is made of. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Look for a crib made from solid wood or has a metal base instead.