Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery but picking the crib is one of the most crucial decisions. Whether it's the design of the slats, mattress height or the capability to convert, the crib the baby sleeps in will impact their health and development.
Remember that nails and bolts may be loose in time, so make sure you check the crib's hardware regularly. Be sure to avoid placing your crib close to window blinds or drapes that hang down, which could create a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to consider when shopping for the right crib. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, but small enough to allow you to be able to reach them easily and care for them. It should be strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
Most cribs are made of wood or metal and have side panels that are slatted. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from various angles and ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs can be used up 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 suitable for newborns, while the highest setting is good for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Check the crib's dimensions to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted design can create small gaps that could be hazardous for your baby.
Manufacturers offer mattresses and cribs that aren't standard sizes, but meet the same safety standards. These include bassinets, portable infant beds, and play yards. These cribs are smaller than standard cribs and have mesh or rigid sides.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose one that isn't standard. They may have specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimension of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also important to be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure it's not more than 1 inch. This is the minimum safe distance.
A waterproof mattress cover for your baby can keep it clean and secure from spills or accidents. Choose one with an antimicrobial layer that eliminates bacteria, and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib with drop-sides, be aware that they've been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and were banned in the US as of 2011. Even if you plan to purchase or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby, make sure to dispose of it when your child reaches 35 inches or is able to get out.
Safety
A baby crib is the safest place for your child. It's a space to relax, but also a place where you can keep them close and observe them frequently. There are a myriad of models and brands of cribs on the market, each one must meet certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before you put your child in the crib make sure that it is clean, free of dust and dander. Take away any toys or stuffed animals that could fall off the bed. Do not place any pillows or blankets inside the crib. They could cause death by suffocation. Make Cot Bed of a fitted sheet and mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should conform to formaldehyde emissions standards as outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be tested for compliance. The CPSC has concluded that even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is appropriate to enforce compliance with this important law.
Some commenters suggested that the new crib standard should include the requirement to tighten fasteners between dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this idea. The shake test as well as the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and speed up abuse of cribs. The loose screw is the second most common cause of crib deaths.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. The data shows that the two most common crib dangers are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking process and to include the performance standards that are already contained in the existing mandatory standard by reference. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
It is a rewarding and thrilling experience to design your baby's nursery. The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so it is important to choose one that suits your style and complements the decor. There are many chic cribs available regardless of whether you're looking for something contemporary and minimalist or traditional. There are options for every price range, from the cheapest to luxurious. Make sure that the crib you pick conforms to all safety guidelines.
A crib is a compact, specially designed bed for babies and infants. It is made of sturdy materials like wood and features slatted wall paneling to allow for a safe airflow. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, however they are more functional for your baby's the first three years of life.
There are many types of cribs that are available on the market, however they all must meet strict safety standards. For example the crib slats need to not exceed 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda container) and you should not use decorative cutouts or shapes on the footboard or headboard.
The mattress must be able to fit snugly into the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and mattress can cause infants legs or arms to become entangled. A lot of cribs have bars for stabilization that aid in keeping the mattress in position. However, if you own a crib that doesn't have them, be sure to buy mattress pads for additional support.
A good crib also has a low-sitting mattress that prevents toddlers from stepping over the edge of the crib. It's a great option for smaller parents or rooms that are small Be sure to check the mattress height before you purchase. The corners of many mattresses will show the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If you are looking for a crib that can grow with your child, you should consider buying a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed or even a full size bed. Some cribs, like the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 are equipped with conversion kits. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost hundreds of dollars However, there are some cribs that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is less than 200 dollars and has been rated 5 stars by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium height profile that makes it simple to take your baby into and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another budget-friendly crib. This portable sleep and play option is simple to set up and folds down in just a few minutes. It can be used inside 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 about six months.
You can also find affordable bassinets and cradles that you can use during the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. While they're more expensive than a standard crib, they are also more compact and easy to move around. They're only a temporary sleep solution for your baby and they will outgrow it by the time they reach their first birthday.
A good crib will include a mattress support that is strong and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's weight. It should be low enough to allow you to reach into and out of it easily, especially in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening, which can cause your baby to be trapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs are equipped with changing rooms, which can make diapering easier and faster. They are handy, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a suitable option for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials your crib is made of. Baby beds are made of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Instead, look for a crib made from solid wood or with a metal base.