Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting time, however choosing the right crib is among the most crucial decisions you'll make. It doesn't matter what design of the slats, mattress height or conversion capabilities the crib that your baby sleeps on will affect their health and development.
Examine the crib's hardware frequently. Bolts and nails could become loose over time. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to drapes or blinds that hang because they could pose a strangulation risk for 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 so that you can safely reach your baby in order to talk to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed of wood or metal and have sides that are slatted. These features let caregivers view the baby from various angles and also encourage airflow. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.
The majority of cribs have the mattress height which can be adjusted to meet your baby's development. The lowest setting is best for infants, whereas the highest setting is ideal for babies who can sit up or crawl. Take measurements of the crib's interior to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted design could leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous to your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that have the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include play yards and portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs typically have rigid or mesh sides, and they tend to be smaller than the full-size cribs.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose a crib that isn't standard. There could be specific requirements that are different from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. You should also be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure that it is not greater than 1 inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof mattress cover for your baby can keep it clean and protected from accidents or spit-up. Select one that has an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're thinking about buying a crib with drop sides, be aware that they've been linked to 32 deaths of babies between 2000 and 2010. They have been banned in the US since. Even if you plan to purchase or get a crib with drop sides for your baby be sure to remove it when your child reaches 35 inches or has the ability to be able to climb 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 observe and hold them often. There are numerous crib models and brands on the market. But, they all have to meet certain safety requirements. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for infants.
Before putting your child in the crib, make sure that it is clean and free of dander and dust. Remove any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Also, don't put any blankets or pillows in the crib; these can cause death by suffocation. Make most recommended cribs of a fitted sheet and a mattress cover instead.
Some commenters suggested cribs should conform to formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and cribs made of composite wood must be tested to ensure compliance. Although these requirements don't directly apply to cribs however, the CPSC has ruled that it is appropriate to mandate that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement of tightening fasteners after dynamic tests. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test are designed to replicate and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the 2nd most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data indicate that the two most frequently reported crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We have decided to concentrate our attention on these concerns and incorporate the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard. Incorporation by reference is the best way to ensure that the safety of cribs is ensured in a consistent and efficient way.
Style
The design of your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding experience. The crib is the focal element of any nursery, so you should choose one that suits your style and complements the decor. There are a variety of elegant cribs to choose from, whether you want something modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are cribs for every budget, from the most affordable to high-end. Make sure the crib you pick is safe and meets all safety standards.
A crib is a tiny, specially designed bed for babies and infants. It has slatted walls that allow for adequate ventilation and is usually built from sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, however they offer more functionality for your child's early years.
There are many crib styles that are available, however all must be safe to use. The crib slats, as an instance, shouldn't exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. Also, you should avoid decorative shapes or cutouts on the footboard and headboard.
The mattress should also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants' arms or legs to get caught in. Many cribs have stabilizer bars to assist in keeping the mattress in position. If your crib doesn't have stabilizer bars, you'll need to purchase an additional mattress pad for support.
A good crib also has a mattress that is low that helps keep children from stepping over the crib's edge. It's a great feature for parents with smaller children or rooms with limited space, but be sure to verify the mattress height before you make your purchase. Most mattresses will have a label on the corner, which shows the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
Consider purchasing an adjustable crib if you would like your crib to expand with your child. These types of cribs can be turned into an infant bed or a daybed, or even 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 more affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib is one of them. It costs less than $200 and has been highly rated 5 stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has an overall profile that is medium height, making it simple to get your child inside and out.
Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. The portable sleep and play option is simple to put together and folds up in a few minutes. It can be used inside or out on decks or patios. It is suitable for babies weighing 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 are suitable for the first few months, which allows you to keep your baby snug and close. They cost more however they are smaller and easier to move. But, they're only a short-term sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.
A quality crib should include a sturdy, secure mattress support that can be adjusted in four different positions based on the development of your baby. It should be low enough to allow you to reach in and out of it easily, particularly when you're less than 5'5. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress opening which can cause your baby to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs have attached changing rooms, which makes diaper changing simpler and quicker. Although they are convenient but they can take up more floor space than traditional cribs and may not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials that the crib is made from. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Choose a crib made from solid wood or comes with an aluminum base instead.