Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery but choosing the crib is one of your most important decisions. The crib in which your baby sleeps in will have a significant impact on their development and health whether it's the style of the slats or mattress height.
Make best cots to check the crib's hardware regularly. Bolts and nails can get loose over time. Be sure to avoid placing your crib close to window blinds or drapes that dangle, which present a risk of strangulation for your baby.
Size
When shopping for a crib the size is a key aspect. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, yet small enough that you can be able to reach them easily and care for them. It should also be sturdy enough to stand up to the wear and tear of regular use.
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 promote airflow. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress height that can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's growth. The lowest setting is best for babies. The highest setting is for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Measure the crib's interior to ensure the mattress will fit. The slatted design could leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous to your baby.
Manufacturers offer mattresses and cribs that are not standard sizes, but meet the same safety standards. These include play yards, portable infant beds, and bassinets. These cribs often have mesh or rigid sides, and tend to be smaller than the full-size cribs.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose a crib that is not standard. There may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also recommended to test the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure it is no more than 1 inch, which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bed from spills and accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop-sides, know that they were linked to the deaths of 32 infants between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US in 2011. Even if you plan to purchase or receive a crib with drop sides, make sure to remove it when your child reaches 35 inches or can climb out.
Safety
A baby crib is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It's a place for them to rest, but also a place where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. There are a myriad of models and brands of cribs available each one must meet certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before putting your child in the crib ensure that the crib is clean, free of dust and dander. Also, remove any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Use no blankets or pillows within the crib. They can lead to the suffocation of children. Use a fitted sheet and mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must conform to formaldehyde emissions standards as outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199), and cribs made from composite wood should be tested to determine if they are in compliance. While these rules are not directly applicable to cribs however, the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to require 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 after dynamic tests. This suggestion is not something we would consider. The shake test and vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and speed up crib abuse. Screws that are loose are the second most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data show that the most frequent dangers associated with cribs are drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. We decided to focus our attention on these issues and include the standards of performance already in the existing mandatory standard. By reference incorporation is the most effective way to ensure that the cribs' safety is maintained in a uniform and effective manner.
Style
The process of designing your baby's nursery can be an exciting and rewarding process. The centerpiece of any nursery is the crib, therefore it's crucial to choose a crib that is in keeping with your style and complements the room's décor. There are numerous stylish cribs available regardless of whether you're looking for something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are cribs for every budget, from the most affordable to luxurious. Make certain that the crib you choose meets all of the required safety guidelines.
A crib is a tiny special bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It is constructed of durable materials like wood, and features slatted wall paneling to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs can be bigger and more expensive than bassinets, but offer greater functionality for the initial three years of your child's life.
There are many crib styles that are available, however all must be safe to use. The crib slats, as an instance, should not be more than 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 be able to fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants legs and arms to become entangled. Some cribs come with stabilizer bars to help keep the mattress in place. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, ensure you buy mattress pads for additional support.
A mattress that is low-level is another characteristic of a quality crib that helps to prevent toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. It's a great option for smaller parents or rooms that are small However, be sure to measure the mattress's height prior to you make your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If you want an infant crib that grows with your child, think about purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted into an infant's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Some of the cribs on our list, such as the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits included. The rest will require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars There are a few cribs on the market that are budget friendly. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib costs less than 200 dollars and has been rated 5 stars by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is moderate in height, making it easy to get your child in and out.
Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep and play option is simple to install and folds away in just a few minutes. It can be used inside or outside, on a deck or patio. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleep solution, however as your baby will outgrow it after about six months.
There are also budget-friendly cradles and bassinets that you can use during the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. They cost more however they are smaller and easier to move. However, they are only a short-term sleeping solution and your baby is likely to outgrow them before the first birthday.
A good crib should include a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted in four different positions based on the growth of your baby. It should be low enough for you to reach into and out of it easily, especially if you're under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which could cause your child to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs come with an attached changing area that make diapering a little more convenient and quicker. While these are convenient however, they take up more floor space than traditional cribs and might not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials the crib is made from. Many traditional cribs are made of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Instead, opt for a crib made of solid wood or with a metal base.