Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting time, however choosing a crib is one of the most important decisions you'll make. It doesn't matter what style of slats, the mattress height or the capability to convert the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.
Make sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Bolts and nails may get loose over time. Avoid placing your crib near blinds or drapes that hang on the ceiling, as they could create the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
Size is an important factor to take into consideration when buying the right crib. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleeping infant, yet small enough that you can safely reach your child to listen to them. It should be strong enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from wood or metal, and the majority of them come with the slatted sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from various angles and to ensure adequate air flow. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.
Most standard cribs come with an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's development. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns. The highest setting is for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Make sure you measure the inside of your crib to make sure that the mattress is suitable, as the slatted design of most cribs may leave tiny gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that have the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds and play yards. These cribs are smaller than the standard cribs and have mesh or rigid sides.
Check cot sale to determine the recommended mattress size in case you decide to purchase a crib that is not standard. They might have specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. You should also test the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bedding from spills and accidents. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you're thinking about buying a crib with drop sides, you should be aware that they were linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010. They have been banned in the US since. Even if you decide to purchase a crib with a drop-side or receive one from a friend ensure that you remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or can climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It's a place for them to rest but also a space where you can keep them close and observe 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 mini cot beds place your child in the crib ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Remove any toys or stuffed animals that could fall off the crib. Do not place any pillows or blankets in the crib. They can cause the suffocation of children. Instead, use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should be in compliance with formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be inspected for compliance. The CPSC has determined that, even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is appropriate to insist on compliance with this important law.
Some commenters suggested that a requirement that fasteners be tightened again between dynamic tests should be added to the crib standard that is being developed. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to mimic and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the 2nd leading cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident data. The data shows that the most frequently cited hazards associated with cribs are drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. We have decided to concentrate our attention on these issues and to incorporate the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard. By incorporating cot sale by reference we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
Designing your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding experience. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it is essential to pick one that matches your style and complements the room's décor. If you're looking for a contemporary and minimalist style or more traditional, there are plenty of chic cribs to pick from. There are options for every price range, from the cheapest to upscale. Just be sure that the crib you select is in compliance with all the necessary safety guidelines.
A crib is a small bed designed specifically for infants and babies. It is constructed from sturdy materials such as wood and features slatted wall paneling to allow for a safe airflow. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, but they are more functional for your baby's early years.
There are a variety of crib designs that are available, however all must be safe to use. The crib slats, as an instance, should not be more than 6 centimeters (about the width of a bottle of soda) apart. It is also recommended to avoid decorative shapes or cutouts in the headboard and footboard.
The mattress must also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause babies legs and arms to get caught in the crib. A lot of cribs have bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. But if you have a crib that doesn't, ensure you buy an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A good crib also has a low sitting mattress level, which helps prevent toddlers from stepping over the crib's edge. It's a great feature for smaller families or rooms that are small Be sure to measure the mattress's height prior purchase. The corner of the majority of mattresses will show the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
You should consider buying an adjustable crib if you would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be transformed into a toddler bed as well as a daybed or a full-size bed. 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 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 highly 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 crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. The portable sleep and play option is easy to set up and folds in just an hour. 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 designed to be a permanent solution to sleeping as your child will grow out of the product within six months.
You can also find budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby comfortable and close. While they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easier to move around. However, they're only a temporary solution for sleeping and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A quality crib should be sturdy and solid mattress support that can be adjusted to four different positions, based on the growth of your baby. It should be low enough to allow you to reach in and out of it easily, particularly in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening, which could cause your child to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs feature an attached changing area that can help diapering a bit easier and faster. While these are convenient, they tend to take up more space than traditional cribs and might not be the ideal choice for smaller nurseries.
Think about the materials the crib is constructed of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Instead, look for a crib made from solid wood or with a steel base.