Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery, but picking the crib is one of the most important decisions. It doesn't matter what style of slats, mattress height or the ability to convert the crib that your baby sleeps on will impact their health and development.
Keep in mind that bolts and nails can become 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 an injury risk to your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing the right crib. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, yet small enough that you are able to reach your child to listen to them. It should be strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed of metal or wood, and are fitted with sides that are slatted. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from various angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs are utilized from birth until your child is about two years old. old, when they will have to be moved to the toddler bed.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns, while the highest setting is good for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to be sure that the mattress fits, as the slatted design of most cribs can create small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Manufacturers have cribs and mattresses that aren't standard sizes, yet have the same safety standards. These include play yards and portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than full-size ones and have rigid or mesh sides.
If you decide to purchase a crib that is not standard, make sure you check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size guidelines. There may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. You should also examine the distance between the crib and mattress to make sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof mattress cover for your baby can help keep it clean and protected from spills or accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that reduces bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that stops allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop sides, you should be aware that they were associated with 32 baby deaths between 2000 and 2010 and have been outlawed in the US since 2011. Even if you decide to purchase a crib with a drop-side or get one from a friend make sure you remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to get out.
Safety
A baby crib is among the most secure places for your child to sleep. It's a place for them to rest, but also a place where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. There are a myriad of models and brands of cribs on the market, each one must meet certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before you place your baby in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, take out any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Use no blankets or pillows inside the crib. They can cause death by suffocation. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must be in compliance with formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and cribs constructed of composite wood must be tested to determine if they are in compliance. The CPSC has concluded that, although these requirements do NOT directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is a good idea to require conformity with this important law.
Some commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement to tighten fasteners after dynamic tests. This suggestion is not something we would consider. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to replicate and increase the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screws are the second leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on EWS incident data. These data show that the most frequently cited hazards associated with cribs are drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking and to include the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard by reference. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that crib safety is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
It's a satisfying and exciting process to design the nursery of your baby's. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it is essential to pick one that is in keeping with your style and matches the room's decor. There are many elegant cribs to choose from that you can choose from contemporary and minimalist or traditional. You can find options in every price range, from affordable to luxurious. Make sure the crib you select has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specially designed for babies and infants. It is constructed from sturdy materials such as wood and features slatted wall paneling to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, however they offer more functionality for your child's first three years of life.
There are many crib styles that are available, however all must be safe to use. The crib slats, for instance, shouldn't exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. Also, cots offers should avoid cutting outs or decorative shapes in the headboard and footboard.
Additionally, the mattress must fit snugly inside the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause babies' arms and legs to become entangled. Many cribs come with bars for stabilization that aid in keeping the mattress in position. If your crib does not include stabilizer bars, you'll need to buy a mattress pad as extra support.
A mattress that is low-level is another characteristic of a quality crib that can help keep children from climbing up the crib's edge. This is a fantastic feature for parents with small children or rooms that are limited in space. However, make sure to verify the mattress's height prior your purchase. Most mattresses have a label on the corner, which shows the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you are looking for a crib that can grow with your child, you should consider purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted into the toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a full size bed. A few of the cribs on our list, such as 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 extra purchase.
Budget
While the majority of 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 for instance, is priced less than $200 and has been rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium-height profile, which makes it easy to take your baby into and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable play and sleep option is simple to install and folds away in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors or out on a patio or deck. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It is not designed to be a long-term solution for sleeping as your child will outgrow the product after six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that can be used for the beginning of the first few months, which allows you to keep your baby in a safe and secure environment. They are more expensive however they are smaller and easier to move. But, they're only a temporary sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality will include a mattress support that is strong and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's height. It should also be low enough to let you get in and out easily, particularly when you are less than 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening, which could cause your child to be trapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs come with an attached changing area which can help diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. They are handy, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a good option for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials the crib is made from. Many traditional cribs are made of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Instead, opt for a crib that is made of solid wood or with a steel base.