Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery, however, choosing the crib will be one of your most crucial choices. The design of the slats, mattress height or conversion capabilities, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.
Examine the crib's hardware frequently. Bolts and nails can become loose over time. Also, avoid placing your crib close to drapes or window blinds that hang, which can pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
Size is an important factor to consider when shopping for the right crib. The crib should be large enough to fit a sleeping baby, yet small enough for you to reach them in a safe manner to take care of them. It should also be sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
The majority of cribs are constructed out of metal or wood, and a majority include the slatted sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from different angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs can be used up until your child reaches the age of two.
Most standard cribs come with the mattress height which can be adjusted to suit the baby's growing needs. The lowest setting is suitable for newborns, whereas the highest setting is good for babies who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the inside of your crib to be sure that the mattress fits as the slatted structure of most cribs may leave tiny gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards as standard cribs. These include play yards as well as portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than standard cribs and have mesh or rigid sides.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose a crib that isn't standard. They might have requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress size of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also important to be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure that it is not greater than 1 inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's mattress from spills and accidents. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib that has drop-sides, be aware that they were associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and are banned in the US in 2011. Even if you plan to buy a drop-side crib or get one from a friend, be sure to 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 not just an area to rest, but also where you can be able to see them and hold them frequently. 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 putting your child in the crib, make sure 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. Do not place any pillows or blankets in the crib. They can lead to the suffocation of children. Use www.cots4tots.co.uk fitted sheet and mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs need to meet formaldehyde emission standards laid out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199), and cribs made from composite wood should 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 enforce conformity with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement of tightening fasteners in between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not a good idea for us. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to mimic and increase the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the 2nd most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident information. These data show that the two most common crib dangers are mattresses that are not safe and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular attention on these issues and include the performance standards already incorporated into the current mandatory standard. By reference incorporation is the most effective method to ensure the safety of cribs is ensured in a consistent and efficient manner.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting experience to design your baby's nursery. The crib is the main focal point of any nursery, so it is important to pick one that matches your style and complements the decor. If you're looking for a contemporary and minimalist look or something more traditional, there are plenty of stylish cribs to choose from. There are options for every budget, from affordable to high-end. Just be sure that the crib you select is in compliance with all the necessary safety standards.
A crib is a tiny bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It has slatted walls that allow for an airy environment and is typically constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets and can be more expensive, however they are more functional for your child's the first three years of life.
There are many crib styles available, but all must meet safety standards. The crib slats, for instance, should not be more than 6 centimeters (about the width of a can of soda) apart. It is also recommended to avoid decorative shapes or cutouts in the footboard and headboard.
In addition, the mattress must fit snugly into the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the mattress and crib can cause infants legs or arms to get caught in. Many cribs come with bars for stabilization that help keep the mattress in its place. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, ensure you buy an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A mattress that is low in height is another feature of a good crib that can help keep children from climbing up the crib's edge. This is a great 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. The majority of mattresses will have a sticker on the corner, which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you want a crib that can grow with your child, consider purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted into the toddler's bed, a daybed or even a full-size bed. Some of the 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 require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars however, 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 rated 5 stars by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is moderate in height, making it easy to take your child in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. 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 babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a permanent solution to sleeping, as your child will outgrow the product after six months.
There are also affordable bassinets and cribs 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. While they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easier to move around. They are not a permanent sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A quality crib will have a mattress support that is sturdy and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's height. It should be low enough to let you reach into and out easily, particularly in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the opening of the mattress This can cause your child to become stuck while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs feature an attached changing area which can make diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. They are handy, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials that the crib is constructed of. Many cribs are constructed of particleboard, which is made up of formaldehyde. Instead, opt for a crib made of solid wood or with a metal base.