Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting time, but choosing a crib is one of the most crucial choices you'll make. The style of slats, the mattress height or the ability to convert, the crib the baby sleeps in will impact their health and development.
Keep in mind that nails and bolts can wiggle loose over time, so make sure you check the crib's hardware regularly. Do not place your crib near blinds or drapes that hang on the ceiling, as they could create the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
When you are looking for a crib the size is a key aspect. The crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping baby, but small enough for you to reach them safely to take care of them. It should be strong enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed from metal or wood and a majority include sliding sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from different angles and to ensure proper air flow. Cribs are utilized from birth until your child is around two years old. old, when they will have to be moved to a toddler bed.
Most standard cribs have a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting works best for infants. The most advanced setting is for infants who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to make sure that the mattress is suitable, as the slatted design of most cribs can create small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include portable infant beds, bassinets, and play yards. These cribs typically have rigid or mesh sides, and they are usually smaller than full-size cribs.
If you choose a non-standard crib, look up the manufacturer's guidelines to determine 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 check the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure it's not larger than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's mattress from accidents and spills. Choose one with an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria, and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were associated with 32 deaths of babies between 2000 and 2010. They have been outlawed in the US since 2011. Even if you plan to buy or receive a drop-side baby crib, make sure to get rid of it once your child is 35 inches or is able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is the safest place for your child. It's a place to relax, but also a place where you can keep them close and see them often. There are many crib models and brands on the market. However, they all must meet certain safety requirements. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before you place your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Remove any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Do not place any pillows or blankets within the crib. They can lead to death by suffocation. Instead, use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs need to comply with the 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 ensure that they meet the standards. The CPSC has concluded that although these rules do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is a good idea to insist on the compliance of this law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement to tighten fasteners after dynamic tests. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to simulate and increase the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the second leading cause of crib fatalities.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident records. These data indicate that the two most frequent crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular attention on these issues and to incorporate the standards of performance already in the current mandatory standard. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
The design of your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding process. The crib is the focal element of any nursery, so it is important to select one that fits your style and complements the decor. There are numerous stylish cribs available regardless of whether you're looking for something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options for everyone's budget, from the most affordable to upscale. Make certain that the crib you choose meets all of the required safety standards.
A crib is a small, specially designed bed for babies and infants. It is constructed with slatted walls to allow for safe ventilation and is often constructed from durable materials such as wood. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, but they are more functional for your baby's first three years of life.
There are many crib styles available, but all of them must be in compliance with safety standards. The crib's slats for instance, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a bottle of soda) apart. You should also avoid decorative shapes or cutouts in the headboard and footboard.
In addition the mattress should fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is essential because gaps between the crib and mattress could allow infants legs or arms to get entangled. Many cribs have stabilizer bars to assist in keeping the mattress in place. If your crib does not come with stabilizer bars, then you'll need to purchase a mattress pad as extra support.
A quality crib also comes with a low-sitting mattress that helps keep children from stepping over the crib's edge. It's a great option for parents with smaller children or rooms that are small, but be sure to verify the mattress height before you purchase. The corner of most mattresses will list the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If crib sets want an infant crib that grows with your child, you should consider buying a convertible crib. These types of cribs can be converted into toddler beds as well as a daybed or a bed that is full size. A few 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 extra purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced at hundreds of dollars Some cribs are more affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib, for example, costs less than $200 and has been highly rated 5 stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium-height profile that makes it simple for you to get your baby in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. It is easy to set up and folds up in a few minutes. It can be used indoors or outside, on a deck or patio. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleeping solution, however, as your baby will outgrow it in about six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that can be used for the initial few months, which allows you to keep your baby close and comfortable. They are more expensive but they are smaller and easier to move. They are not a permanent sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow it before their first birthday.
A good crib should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted in four different positions based on your baby's growth. It must be low enough for you to reach into and out of it easily, especially if you're under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which can cause your baby to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs have attached changing areas that help diapering a bit easier and faster. They are useful, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be a good choice for smaller nurseries.
Take a look at the materials the crib is constructed of. Many cribs are made of particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Choose a crib that is made out of solid wood or has a metal base instead.