Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting time, however picking the right crib is among the most crucial decisions you will make. The style of slats, mattress height or conversion capabilities, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails can become loose over time. Also, avoid placing your crib close to curtains or window blinds that dangle, which pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for the perfect crib. The crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping baby, yet small enough to allow you to be able to reach them easily and take care of them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
Most cribs are made of metal or wood and come with side panels that are slatted. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from various angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs can be used up until your child is of two.
Most standard cribs have a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is best for infants, whereas the highest setting is suitable for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to make sure the mattress will fit because the slatted style 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 as full-size cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds, and play yards. These cribs typically have rigid or mesh sides, and they tend to be smaller than full-size cribs.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size in case you select a crib that isn't standard. There could be specifications that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. You should also be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure that it is not greater than one inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof cover for your baby's mattress can keep it clean and protected from accidents or spit-up. Choose one with an antimicrobial layer that eliminates bacteria and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're thinking about buying a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US since. If you do decide to purchase a crib with drop sides or receive one from a friend, be sure to eliminate it when your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to get out.
Safety
A crib for babies is one of the safest places to let your child sleep. It's a space for them to rest, but also a place where you can keep them close and see them often. There are numerous crib models and brands available on the market. However, they all must meet certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before you put your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Remove any toys or stuffed animal that could fall off the bed. Also, don't put any blankets or pillows in the crib as they could cause death by suffocation. Use a fitted sheet and a mattress cover.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must conform to formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and cribs made from composite wood should 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 of composite wood, it is still appropriate to enforce conformity with this important law.
Some commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain a requirement to retighten fasteners after dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this suggestion. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to simulate and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the second leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident information. These data reveal that the most frequent dangers associated with cribs are drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. We decided to pay particular focus on these issues and include the performance standards already incorporated into the current mandatory standard. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It's a satisfying and exciting process to design your baby's nursery. crib sets is the focal element of any nursery, so choose one that suits your style and complements the decor. There are a variety of chic cribs available that you can choose from modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options for everyone's budget, from the most affordable to high-end. Make sure the crib you select is safe and meets all safety standards.
A crib is a small bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It is constructed of durable materials such as wood and has slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets and can be more expensive, but they provide more functions for your baby's the first three years of life.
There are a variety of crib styles available, but all must be in compliance with safety standards. The crib slats, as an instance, shouldn't be more than 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. You should also beware of cutouts or ornaments in the footboard and headboard.
Additionally, the mattress must fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the mattress and crib can allow babies' arms or legs to become entangled. A lot of cribs have bars for stabilization that assist in keeping the mattress in position. If your crib doesn't include stabilizer bars, you'll need to buy an additional mattress pad for support.
A great crib also has a mattress that is low, which helps prevent toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. It's a great feature for smaller parents or rooms with limited space However, be sure to check the mattress's height prior to you make your purchase. Most mattresses have a label on the corner, which lists the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you want an infant crib that grows with your child, think about purchasing a convertible crib. These types of cribs can be transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed and even a full-size bed. A few 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, there are a few cribs available on the market that are budget friendly. 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 an overall profile that is medium height, making it simple to take your child in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable crib for sleep and play is easy to install and folds away in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however, as your baby will outgrow it after 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 snug and close. They cost more but they are smaller and easier to move. But, they're only a temporary solution for sleeping and your baby is likely to outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A quality crib will include a mattress support that is strong and secure, and is able to be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's weight. It should be low enough to allow you to reach in and out easily, especially when you are less than 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are more than 1 8 inches above the opening of the mattress that could cause your child to get trapped as they play or attempt to climb.
Some cribs come with attached changing areas that makes diaper changing easier and faster. They are handy, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials the crib is made from. Many traditional cribs are made from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Instead, opt for a crib made from solid wood or with a metal base.