Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting time, however choosing a crib is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The crib in which your baby sleeps will have a major impact on their health and development regardless of the design of the slats or the mattress height.
Be aware that nails and bolts can wiggle loose over time, so make sure you check your crib hardware regularly. Avoid placing your crib near blinds or drapes hanging, as they can pose an injury risk to your baby.
Size
When shopping for a crib the size is a key aspect. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping infant but small enough that you are able to safely reach your child to listen to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made out of metal or wood, and most include the slatted sides. These features are designed to let caregivers view the baby from different angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs are used from birth until the child is around two years old. old, when they will need to be moved into a toddler bed.
Most standard cribs come with the mattress height which can be adjusted to accommodate the baby's growing needs. The lowest setting is ideal for infants. The highest setting is for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Measure the crib's interior to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted structure can leave small gaps which could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that meet the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include bassinets for infants, portable cribs and play yards. These cribs often have rigid or mesh sides, and tend to be smaller than the full-size cribs.
If you decide to purchase a non-standard crib, check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size guidelines. There may be specific requirements that are different from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. You should also check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure it is not more than 1 inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's bed from accidents and spills. Choose one with an antimicrobial barrier that helps reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib that has drop-sides, know that they were associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and were banned in the US in 2011. If you do decide to purchase a crib with drop sides or get one as a gift make sure you remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is one of the safest places to let your child sleep. It's not just an area for rest but also where you can see and hold them frequently. There are a myriad of models and brands of cribs available, each one must comply with certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before putting your child in the crib ensure that the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Use similar web page or pillows within the crib. They can lead to suffocation. Use a fitted sheet or mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to be in compliance with formaldehyde emission standards set out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 111-199), and cribs made of composite wood must be tested to determine if they are in compliance. While these rules don't directly apply to cribs, the CPSC has decided 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 a requirement to retighten fasteners between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not a good idea for us. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test are designed to mimic and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the second most common cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data show that the most frequently cited dangers associated with cribs are drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. Therefore, we decided to concentrate on these concerns in the new rulemaking process and to incorporate the performance standards that are already contained in the existing mandatory standard, with reference. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
The process of designing your baby's nursery can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The crib is the main focal feature of any nursery, so it is important to pick one that matches your style and complements its decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there are plenty of stylish cribs to choose from. There are options for every price range, from the cheapest to luxurious. Be sure that the crib you pick is safe and meets all safety standards.
A crib is a small crib designed especially for babies and infants. It is constructed from 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 provide more functions for your baby's early years.
There are a variety of crib styles available, but all must be safe to use. For example the crib slats must not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's roughly the width of a soda bottle) and you should avoid using ornamental cutouts or patterns in the headboard or footboard.
The mattress must be able to fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause babies' arms and legs to become entangled. Some cribs come with bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. However, if you own a crib that doesn't have them, ensure you buy an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A mattress that is low-level is another feature of a crib that can help keep children from climbing up the crib's edge. It's an excellent feature for smaller parents or rooms with limited space However, be sure to check the mattress's height prior to you purchase. The corners of many mattresses will show the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
You should consider buying an adjustable crib if you want your crib to change with your child. These types of cribs can be transformed into toddler beds as well as a daybed or a bed that is full size. 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 most cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars, there are a few cribs on the market that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is priced at less than 200 dollars and has been 5 stars rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has an overall profile that is medium height, making it simple to take your child in and out.
Another budget-friendly crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable crib for sleep and play is easy to install and folds away in a matter of minutes. It can be used inside or out on a deck or patio. It is suitable for babies weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleep solution, however since your baby will grow out of it after about six months.
There are also affordable bassinets and cribs that can be used for the initial few months, which allows you to keep your baby snug and close. They cost more but they are smaller and easier to move. However, infant cot bed for sleeping, and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should have a sturdy, secure mattress support that can be adjusted to four different positions, based on the development of your baby. It must be low enough to allow you to get in and out easily, particularly if you are under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are more than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which can cause your baby to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs have separate changing rooms that can make diapering a little easier and faster. These are convenient however they require more space than traditional cribs. They may not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials that the crib is made of. Many cribs are made of particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Look for a crib made out of solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.