Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery but choosing the crib is one of the most crucial decisions. Whether it's the style of slats, mattress height or the capability to convert, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.
Keep in mind that nails and bolts can be loose in time, so make sure you check your crib's hardware frequently. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to drapes or blinds hanging, as they can pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to consider when purchasing the perfect crib. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, but compact enough for you to reach them safely to take care of them. It should also be durable enough to stand up to the wear and tear of everyday use.
The majority of cribs are constructed from metal or wood and most have the slatted sides. These features let caregivers view the baby from various angles and also encourage airflow. Cribs can be used from birth until the 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 grows. The lowest setting is ideal for babies. The most advanced setting is for infants who can sit up or crawl. Check the crib's dimensions to ensure the mattress will fit. The slatted design can leave small gaps which could be dangerous to your baby.
Manufacturers offer cribs and mattresses that are not standard sizes, but still have the same safety standards. These include play yards as well as portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than standard cribs and have solid or mesh sides.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size if you select a crib that is not standard. There could be requirements that are different 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 make sure it's not larger than 1 inch, which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's bedding from spills and accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that eliminates allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop-sides, you should know that they've been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and were banned in the US in 2011. Even if you decide to buy a drop-side crib or get one as a hand-me-down, be sure to get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is among the most secure places to let your child sleep. It's a place to relax and also a place where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. There are many crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all must meet certain safety requirements. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that the cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before putting your baby in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Remove any toys or stuffed animal that might fall out of the bed. Don't put any blankets or pillows inside the crib. They could cause the suffocation of children. Instead, use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to comply with the formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be inspected to determine if they are in conformity. Although these regulations do not directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has decided that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Other commenters suggested that the requirement that fasteners be retightened between dynamic tests should be included in the crib standard that is being developed. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The shake test as well as the vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and increase the crib abuse. Screws that are loose are the 2nd most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. The data shows that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are mattresses that are not safe and drop-sides. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these issues in the rulemaking process and to incorporate the performance standards already contained in the existing mandatory standard by reference. Incorporation by reference is the best method to ensure the safety of cribs is maintained in a consistent and efficient way.
Style
It's an enjoyable and thrilling experience to design the nursery of your baby's. The crib is the focal element of any nursery, so it is important to pick one that matches your style and complements the decor. There are a variety of chic cribs available, whether you want something contemporary and minimalist or traditional. You can find options in every price range, from budget to luxurious. Be certain that the crib you choose meets all of the required safety standards.
A crib is a small crib designed especially for infants and children. best rated cribs features slatted walls to provide adequate ventilation and is usually built from sturdy materials like wood. Cribs can be larger and more expensive than bassinets, but they are more functional for the initial three years of your child's existence.
There are many crib styles that are available, however all must meet safety standards. The crib slats, for instance, should not be more than 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. Also, you should avoid cutting outs or decorative shapes in the headboard and footboard.
In addition the mattress should be able to fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and the mattress could allow infants' arms or legs to get entangled. Many cribs include bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. If your crib does not have stabilizer bars, you'll need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A great crib also has a mattress that is low, which helps prevent toddlers from stepping over the edge of the crib. This is a great feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are restricted in space. But, be sure to check out the mattress height before making your purchase. Most mattresses will have a label at the corner which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you are looking for a crib that grows with your child, consider buying a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted into toddler beds or a daybed, or even a full-size bed. Some of the cribs in our list, including the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost in the hundreds of dollars There are a few cribs on the market that are budget-friendly. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is less than 200 dollars and has been 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. see page has a profile that is medium high, making it easy to take your child in and out.
Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable crib for sleep and play is simple to install and folds away in just 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 is not intended to be a permanent solution to sleeping, as your child will grow out of the product within six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that can be used for the initial few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. Although they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easier to move around. good cribs are only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow it before their first birthday.
A good crib should be sturdy and secure mattress support that can be adjusted in four different positions based on your baby's growth. It should be low enough to allow you to get in and out easily, especially if you are under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress's opening that could cause your child to get trapped as they play or attempt to climb.
Some cribs come with attached changing areas that can make diapering easier and quicker. While these are convenient but they can take up more floor space than traditional cribs and may not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials that the crib is made from. Many cribs are constructed of particleboard, which is made up of formaldehyde. Instead, choose a crib made of solid wood or with a steel base.