Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery, however, choosing the crib is one of your most important decisions. The crib that 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 bolts and nails can wiggle loose over time, so be sure to check your crib hardware regularly. Also, avoid placing your crib close to curtains or window blinds that hang down, which could pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
When you are looking for the perfect crib, size is an important aspect. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, but small enough so that you are able to safely reach your baby to attend to them. It should also be strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
The majority of cribs are constructed of metal or wood, and are fitted with side panels that are slatted. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs are used from birth until your child is about two years old. of age, at which point they have to be moved to a toddler bed.
Most cribs are equipped with the mattress height which can be adjusted to suit your baby's development. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns. The highest setting is ideal for babies who can sit up or crawl. Make sure you measure the inside of your crib to make sure the mattress will fit, as the slatted design of a lot of cribs leave tiny gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Manufacturers have cribs and mattresses that aren't standard sizes, but comply with the same safety standards. These include portable infant beds, bassinets, and play yards. These cribs are smaller than standard cribs and have mesh or rigid sides.
If you opt for a non-standard crib, review the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress sizes. There could be specific specifications that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. Also, you should 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 will protect your baby's bed from accidents and spills. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that stops allergens.
If you're considering a crib that has drop-sides, know that they have been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and were banned in the US in 2011. Even if you plan to purchase or receive a drop-side baby crib be sure to get rid of it once your child reaches 35 inches or has the ability to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is among the most secure places to let your child sleep. It's not just an area to rest, but also a place to observe and hold them often. There are many crib models and brands available on the market. However, all must meet certain safety requirements. These standards are established 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 dander and dust. 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 death by suffocation. Use a fitted sheet or mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must comply with the formaldehyde emissions standards as outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and cribs constructed of composite wood must be tested to determine if they are in compliance. Although these regulations do not directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should include the requirement to tighten fasteners in between dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this idea. The dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to replicate and speed up the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the second most common cause of crib deaths.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data reveal that the most frequently cited hazards associated with cribs are drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. We therefore decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking process and to incorporate the performance standards that are currently included in the existing mandatory standard by reference. Incorporation by reference is the best method to ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained in a uniform and effective manner.
Style
It's a satisfying and thrilling experience to design your baby's nursery. The crib is the main focal point of any nursery, so you should pick one that matches your style and compliments the decor. There are a variety of elegant cribs to choose from regardless of whether you're looking for something contemporary and minimalist or traditional. There are options for every budget, from the cheapest to high-end. Make sure the crib you pick meets all safety requirements.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specifically designed for infants and babies. It has slatted walls that allow for an airy environment and is typically constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs can be larger and more expensive than bassinets but offer greater functionality for the initial three years of your child's life.
There are a variety of types of cribs that are available on the market, but they all must be in compliance with 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 ornamental cutouts or patterns in the headboard or footboard.
In addition the mattress should fit comfortably within the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and mattress can cause infants' arms and legs to get caught in the crib. A lot of cribs have bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, be sure to buy an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A low-level mattress is another feature of a quality crib that helps to prevent toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. It's an excellent feature for smaller parents or rooms with a limited space However, be sure to check the mattress's height prior make your purchase. The corner of the majority of mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
Consider purchasing an adjustable crib if you want your crib to grow with your child. These cribs can be converted into the 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, come with conversion kits. The rest will 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 priced at less than 200 dollars and has been 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has an overall profile that is medium high, making it easy to take your child in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable crib for sleep and play is easy to install and folds away in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or outside on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. cot sets 's not a permanent sleeping solution, however, since your baby will outgrow it after 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. They cost more however they are smaller and easier to move. However, they are only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A good crib will include a mattress support that is solid and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's size. It must be low enough to allow you to reach into and out easily, especially if you are under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening This can cause your child to get trapped as they play or try to climb.
Some cribs are equipped with changing areas, 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 choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials the crib is made from. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Find a crib made from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.