Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting experience, but picking a crib is one of the most crucial choices you will make. The crib in which your baby sleeps in will have a major impact on their development and health regardless of the design of the slats, or the mattress height.
Remember that bolts and nails can become loose over time, so be sure to check your crib's hardware frequently. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to blinds or drapes hanging because they could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
When shopping for the perfect crib, size is an important aspect. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping infant, but small enough so that you can safely reach your baby to attend to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood, and are fitted with sides that are slatted. These features are designed to allow caregivers to view the baby from different angles and ensure adequate air flow. Cribs are utilized from birth until your child is approximately two years older, at which point they will have to be moved to a toddler bed.
The majority of cribs come with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is best for babies. The most advanced setting is for infants 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 pose a danger for your baby.
Manufacturers offer cribs and mattresses that aren't standard sizes, yet have the same safety standards. These include play yards, portable infant beds, and bassinets. These cribs usually have rigid or mesh sides, and are usually smaller than full-size cribs.
If you choose a crib that is not standard, make sure you look up the manufacturer's guidelines to determine mattress size recommendations. There could be requirements that are different from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. Also, you should examine the distance between the crib and mattress to make sure it's not larger than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof mattress cover can help keep it clean and safe from spit-up or accidents. Find best crib newborn that has an antimicrobial layer that reduces bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop-sides, you should know that they have been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and were banned in the US in 2011. If you do decide to purchase or get a crib with drop sides for your baby ensure that you get rid of it once your child reaches 35 inches or is able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the most secure spot for your child. It is not only an area for rest but also a place to be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are many crib models and brands on the market. However, all have to meet certain safety requirements. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before you place your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean, 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 could cause the suffocation of children. Use a fitted sheet or a mattress cover.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must comply with the formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199), and cribs made of composite wood must be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. 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 require compliance with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement to tighten fasteners 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 speed up 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 the EWS incident data. The data shows that the two most frequently reported crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these issues in the new rulemaking and to incorporate the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard through reference. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that crib safety is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
The design of your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding experience. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, so it is essential to pick one that matches your style and compliments your room's décor. There are many chic cribs available, whether you want something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options for every price range, from budget to upscale. Be sure that the crib you select is safe and meets all safety standards.
A crib is a small special bed designed specifically for infants and children. It is constructed from sturdy materials like wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are often larger and more expensive than bassinets, but offer greater functionality during the initial three years of your child's existence.
There are many types of cribs that are available on the market, however they all must meet strict safety standards. The crib's slats for example, should not be more than 6 centimeters (about the width of a bottle of soda) apart. Also, you should beware of cutouts or ornaments in the footboard and headboard.
In addition, the mattress must fit snugly within the crib's opening. This is essential because gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants' arms or legs to get caught in. Many cribs have bars for stabilization that help 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 mattress that is low in height is another advantage of a quality crib that prevents toddlers from climbing the crib's edge. It's an excellent feature for smaller families or rooms with limited space However, be sure to verify the mattress height before you make your purchase. The majority of mattresses will have a label at the corner which lists the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you are looking for an infant crib that grows with your child, consider purchasing a convertible crib. These types of cribs can be turned into a toddler bed or a daybed, or even a full-size bed. Certain cribs, such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 are equipped with conversion kits. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most 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 is priced at less than 200 dollars and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is moderate in height, making it simple to take your child in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. This portable crib for sleep and play is easy to put together and folds in just a few minutes. cribs beds can be used inside or outside, on a deck or patio. It is suitable for babies weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however because your baby will outgrow it after approximately six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that are suitable for the beginning of the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby close and comfortable. They're more expensive, but they are also smaller and easier to move. They're only a temporary crib for sleeping and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality will have 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, particularly if you are under 5'5. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress opening which could cause your child to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs have attached changing rooms, which makes diaper changing simpler and quicker. They are useful however they require more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a good option for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials that the crib is made of. Many cribs are made of particleboard which contains formaldehyde. Look for a crib that is constructed out of solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.