Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery, however, choosing the crib is one of the most important decisions. Whether it's the style of slats, the mattress height or conversion capabilities, the crib that your baby sleeps on will impact their development and health.
Make sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Bolts and nails could become loose with time. Also, avoid placing your crib close to curtains or window blinds that hang, which can pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a crib. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant but
small cot beds enough that you can safely reach your
Baby Cot Bed to attend to them. It should also be strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood and come with side panels that are slatted. These features let caregivers see the baby from various angles and promote airflow. Cribs are available until your child reaches the age of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is suitable for infants, whereas the highest setting is ideal for babies who can sit up or crawl. Make sure you measure the interior of your crib to make sure the mattress will fit as the slatted structure of most cribs can create small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer cribs with non-standard sizes and mattresses that have the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include play yards and portable infant
mini cot beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than standard ones and come with rigid or mesh sides.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you decide to purchase a crib that isn't standard. There could be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. You should also examine the space 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 mattress cover for your baby can keep it clean and safe from spills or accidents. Select one that has an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib that has drop-sides, be aware that they've been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and are banned in the US as of. Even if you intend to buy or receive a drop-side
baby crib be sure to get rid of it once your child is 35 inches or has the ability to be able to climb out.
Safety
A baby crib is among the most secure places for your child to sleep. It is not only an area for rest but also a place to observe and hold them often. There are a variety of crib models and brands on the market. But, they all must meet certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before putting your child in the crib, make sure that it is clean and free of dander and dust. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any blankets or pillows in the crib, as they can cause death by suffocation. Instead, use a mattress pad and fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should be in compliance with formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be inspected to ensure conformity. Although these requirements are not directly applicable to cribs, the CPSC has decided that it is appropriate to demand that cribs and other furniture made from composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Other commenters suggested that the requirement that fasteners be tightened after dynamic tests should be added to the crib standard being revised. We strongly disagree with this suggestion. The dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to replicate and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screw is the second most frequent cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data reveal that the most frequent hazards that are associated with cribs include dangerous mattresses and drop-sides. Therefore, we decided to concentrate on these concerns in the new rulemaking and to include the performance standards that are currently contained in the existing mandatory standard, with reference. Incorporation by reference is the most effective method to ensure that the cribs' safety is maintained in a consistent and effective way.
Style
The design of your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding experience. The focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it is essential to pick one that is in keeping with your style and complements the room's décor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist style or more traditional, there's a wide selection of chic cribs to pick from. There are cribs for every budget, from the cheapest to high-end. Make sure the crib you select has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a small bed designed specifically for infants and children. It features slatted walls to provide safe ventilation and is often constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs can be larger and more expensive than bassinets, however they offer more functionality during the first three years of your child's existence.
There are a variety of crib styles available, but all of them must meet safety standards. The
great crib slats, for instance, shouldn't exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. Also, you should avoid cutting outs or decorative shapes in the footboard and headboard.
The mattress should also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the mattress and crib can allow babies' arms or legs to get entangled. Many cribs have bars for stabilization that assist in keeping the mattress in its place. If your crib does not come with stabilizer bars, then you'll need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A mattress that is low in height is another characteristic of a crib that helps to prevent children from climbing up the crib's edge. This is an excellent feature for parents with smaller children or rooms that are limited in space. But, be sure to measure the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
You should consider buying an adjustable crib if you want your crib to change with your child. These cribs can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed or even a
Cot Bed that is full size. Some cribs, like the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 have conversion kits. The rest will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib, for example, costs less than $200 and has been highly rated 5 stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium height profile which makes it easier for you to get your baby in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable play and sleep option is simple to put together and folds in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors on a patio or deck and is suitable for babies up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleep solution, however, as your baby will grow out of it after approximately six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly 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. They're more expensive but they are smaller and easier to move. However, they're only a temporary solution for sleeping and your baby is likely to outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should be sturdy and solid mattress support that can be adjusted to four different positions, depending on your baby's growth. It should be low enough to allow you to reach into and out of it easily, especially when you're less than 5'5. 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 have attached changing rooms, which makes diaper changing simpler and quicker. They are handy however they require more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a suitable choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials that the crib is constructed of. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Choose a crib that is constructed out of solid wood or has a metal base instead.