Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery but choosing the crib will be one of the most crucial choices. It doesn't matter what 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 can be loose in time, so be sure to check your crib hardware regularly. Also, don't place your crib close to drapes or window blinds that hang, which can present a risk of strangulation for your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to consider when purchasing the perfect crib. The crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping baby, yet small enough to allow you to be able to reach them easily and take care of them. It should also be durable enough to stand up to the wear and tear of daily use.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood, and are fitted with sides that are slatted. These features allow caregivers to view the baby from various angles and promote airflow. Cribs can be used until your child reaches the age of two.
The majority of cribs have an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to meet the baby's growing needs. The lowest setting works best for newborns. The most advanced setting is for infants who can sit up or crawl. Check the crib's dimensions to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted design can create small gaps that could pose a risk for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer cribs with non-standard sizes and mattresses that meet the same safety standards as standard cribs. These include bassinets for infants, portable cribs, and play yards. These cribs are smaller than the standard cribs and have solid or mesh sides.
If you decide to purchase a crib that is not standard, make sure you review the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress sizes. There may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. You should also test the gap between the crib and mattress to be sure it's not larger than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bedding from spills and accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib that has drop-sides, be aware that they have been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and are banned in the US as of 2011. Even if you intend to purchase or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby be sure to get rid of it once your child reaches 35 inches or has the ability to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is the most secure spot for your child. It is not only an area to rest, but also where you can be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are a variety of crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all must meet certain safety requirements. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before putting your child in the crib ensure that the crib is clean, free of dander and dust. Remove any toys or stuffed animal that could fall off the crib. Don't put any blankets or pillows within the crib. They could cause suffocation. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to comply with the formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 111-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be tested to ensure compliance. While most recommended cribs do not directly apply to cribs, the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to mandate that cribs and other furniture made of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should include the requirement of tightening fasteners in between dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this idea. 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 screw is the second leading cause of crib deaths.
Other comments were based on EWS incident information. The data shows that the two most frequent crib dangers are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We therefore decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking and to incorporate the performance standards that are currently included in the current mandatory standard through reference. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
Designing your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding experience. The focal point of any nursery is the crib, so it is essential to pick one that matches your style and matches the room's décor. There are a variety of chic cribs available, whether you want something modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are options available in every price range, from the cheapest to luxurious. Make sure that the crib you select has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a small bed that is specially designed for babies and infants. It features slatted walls to provide adequate ventilation and is usually constructed from durable materials such as wood. small cot beds are typically larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, however they provide more functions for your baby's the first three years of life.
There are a variety of types of cribs on the market, however they all must be in compliance with strict safety standards. For instance the crib slats need to not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda bottle) and you should stay clear of ornamental cutouts or designs 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 the mattress could allow infants legs or arms to get entangled. Many cribs include bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. But if you have an unstabilized crib, make sure you purchase a mattress pad for extra support.
A mattress that is low-level is another feature of a quality crib that helps to prevent children from climbing up the crib's edge. It's a great feature for smaller families or rooms with a limited space Be sure to verify the mattress height before you purchase. Most mattresses have a sticker on the corner, which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
If you're looking for a crib that grows with your child, think about buying a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into the toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Some cribs, like the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 are equipped with conversion kits. The rest will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While most cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars however, there are a few cribs available on the market that are budget friendly. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib for instance, is priced less than $200 and has been 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 affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. The portable sleep and play option is simple to put together and folds up in two minutes. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors on a patio or deck and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a permanent solution to sleeping, as your child will grow out of the product within six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that are suitable for the first few months, which allows you to keep your baby in a safe and secure environment. They cost more, but they are also smaller and easier to move. They're only a temporary sleep solution for your baby and they will outgrow it by the time they reach their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should include a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted into four different positions based on your baby's growth. It must also be low enough to let you reach into and out easily, particularly when you are less than 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress's opening, which can cause your child to get stuck while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs have separate changing rooms that make diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. These are convenient however they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be a suitable option for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials the crib is made of. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Instead, look for a crib made from solid wood or with a metal base.