Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery, but picking the crib is one of your most crucial decisions. The crib that 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 sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Bolts and nails could become loose over time. Also, avoid placing your crib near drapes or window blinds that dangle, which present a risk of strangulation for your baby.
Size
When you are looking for the perfect crib the size is a key aspect. The crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping baby, but compact enough that you can reach them safely to 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 from wood or metal, and most have the slatted sides. cheap cot beds are designed to let caregivers view the baby from different angles and to ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs are available until your child reaches the age of two.
The majority of cribs come with a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is suitable for newborns, whereas the highest setting is ideal for babies who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the inside of your crib to be sure that the mattress fits because the slatted style of most cribs may create small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Manufacturers offer mattresses and cribs that aren't standard sizes, yet comply with the same safety standards. These include bassinets, portable infant beds, and play yards. These cribs usually have mesh or rigid sides, and tend to be smaller than full-size cribs.
If you opt for an alternative crib, be sure to review the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress sizes. They might have requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimension of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also important to check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure it's not more than 1 inch. This is the maximum safe distance.
A waterproof cover for your baby's mattress can help keep it clean and secure from accidents or spit-up. Select one that has an antimicrobial barrier that helps reduce bacteria and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop sides, you should be aware that they were linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and have been outlawed in the US since. Even if you plan to buy or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby, make sure to remove it when your child reaches 35 inches or can be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is among the most secure places to let your child sleep. It is not only a place to rest but also a place where you can be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are a myriad of models and brands of cribs available each one must comply with certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that the cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you place your child in the crib, make sure that it is clean and free of dust and dander. Remove any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Don't put any blankets or pillows in the crib. They could cause suffocation. Make use of a fitted sheet and mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should be required to be in compliance with formaldehyde emission standards laid out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 111-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be inspected to determine if they are in conformity. The CPSC has concluded that, even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is appropriate to enforce the compliance of this law.
Others suggested that the requirement that fasteners are retightened between dynamic tests should be included in the new crib standard. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to replicate and speed up the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screw is the second most common cause of crib deaths.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident information. These data show that the most common dangers associated with cribs are dangerous mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to focus our attention on these issues and to incorporate the standards of performance already in the standard that is currently mandatory. By incorporating by reference, we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It's an enjoyable and thrilling experience to design your baby's nursery. The crib is the focal element of any nursery, so select one that fits your style and compliments the decor. There are many stylish cribs available, whether you want something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options available in every price range, from budget to luxurious. Make sure the crib you select has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a small bed designed specifically for infants and babies. It is constructed of durable materials like wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels 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 cot beds for sale of crib styles available, but all of them must be in compliance with safety standards. The crib's slats for instance, shouldn't exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. It is also recommended to beware of cutouts or ornaments in the footboard and headboard.
In addition, the mattress must fit comfortably within the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and mattress can cause infants' arms and legs to become entangled. A lot of cribs have stabilizer bars to help keep the mattress in place. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, be sure to buy an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A good crib also has a mattress that is low that prevents toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. This is a fantastic feature for parents with smaller children or rooms that are small in size. But, be sure to check out the mattress's height prior your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If you're looking for an infant crib that grows with your child, think about buying a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into a toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a full-size bed. Some cribs on our list, including the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with conversion kits that are 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 is priced at less than 200 dollars and has been 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium-height profile that makes it simple to take your baby into and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. It is simple to put together and folds down in two 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 a permanent sleep solution, however as your baby will outgrow it in approximately six months.
You can also find budget-friendly cradles and bassinets that can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby safe and close. Although they're more expensive than a standard crib, they are also smaller and easier to move around. They are not a permanent crib for sleeping and your baby will outgrow it before their first birthday.
A quality crib will have a mattress support that is strong and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's weight. It should be low enough to let you reach into and out easily, particularly when you are less than 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that extend more than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening, which could cause your child to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs have attached changing areas that make diapering a little easier and faster. They are handy however they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be a good choice for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials the crib is made of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Look for a crib that is constructed from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.