Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting time, but selecting a crib is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The crib where your baby sleeps will have a significant impact on their development and health, whether it is the design of the slats, or the mattress's height.
Examine the crib's hardware frequently. Bolts and nails can get loose over time. Do not place your crib near blinds or drapes hanging on the ceiling, as they could create the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
When choosing the perfect crib size is a crucial factor. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, but small enough so that you are able to safely reach your baby to attend to them. It should be strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed of wood or metal and have slatted side panels. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from different angles and to ensure adequate air flow. Cribs are available until your child reaches the age of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress height that can be adjusted to suit the baby's growing needs. The lowest setting works best for babies. The highest setting is for babies who can sit up or crawl. Measure the crib's interior to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted design can create small gaps that could be dangerous to your baby.
Manufacturers offer mattresses and cribs that aren't standard sizes, but still comply with the same safety standards. These include bassinets, portable infant beds and play yards. These cribs are smaller than the standard ones and come with rigid or mesh sides.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you decide to purchase a crib that isn't standard. There may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Also, you should check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure it's not more than one inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's mattress from accidents and spills. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib that has drop-sides, you should know that they were linked to the deaths of 32 infants between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US in 2011. If you do decide to buy a drop-side crib or get one as a gift make sure you get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to get out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is the most secure spot for your child. It is not only an area for rest but also where you can observe and hold them often. There are numerous crib models and brands available on the market. However, they all have to meet certain safety requirements. These standards are laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you put your child in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Take away any toys or stuffed animal that could fall off the crib. Also, don't use any blankets or pillows in the crib, as they can cause suffocation. Instead, use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested cribs should be in compliance with formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and cribs constructed of composite wood must be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. The CPSC has determined that, even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is appropriate to enforce conformity with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should include a requirement to retighten fasteners in between dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this suggestion. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test are designed to simulate and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screws are the second leading cause of fatalities in cribs.
Cots For Tots UK were based upon EWS incident records. These data indicate that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular attention on these issues and incorporate the standards of performance already in the current mandatory standard. Incorporation by reference is the best method to ensure the safety of cribs is ensured in a consistent and effective way.
Style
It is a rewarding and thrilling experience designing your baby's nursery. The focal point of any nursery is the crib, so it is essential to pick one that is in keeping with your style and compliments your room's décor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there's a wide selection of chic cribs to pick from. There are options for every budget, from the cheapest to luxurious. Be certain that the crib you select conforms to all safety standards.
A crib is a compact bed designed specifically for babies and infants. It is constructed of durable materials like wood, and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are typically larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, but they provide more functions for your child's the first three years of life.
There are many different styles of cribs available on the market, but they all have to meet strict safety standards. For instance the crib slats must be no more than 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda container) and you should avoid using decorative cutouts or shapes on the footboard or headboard.
In addition the mattress should fit comfortably within the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and mattress can cause infants legs or arms to get entangled. A lot of cribs have bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, ensure you buy mattress pads for additional support.
A great crib also has a low-sitting mattress, which helps prevent children from stepping over the crib's edge. This is a great feature for parents with smaller children or rooms that are small in space. However, it is important to verify the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. Most mattresses will have a label on the corner that indicates the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
Consider buying an adjustable crib if you want your crib to grow with your child. These types of cribs can be converted into an infant bed or a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Some cribs, like 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 the majority of cribs cost hundreds of dollars However, there are some cribs that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib costs less than 200 dollars and has been 5-star 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.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep and play option is simple to put together and folds in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors or outside on a deck or patio and is suitable for babies up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleep solution, however, because your baby will grow out of it after approximately six months.
You can also find budget-friendly cradles and bassinets that can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby comfortable and close. They're more expensive but they are smaller and easier to move. However, they are only a short-term sleeping solution and your baby is likely to outgrow them before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should be sturdy and secure mattress support that can be adjusted into four different positions, based on the development of your baby. It should be low enough to allow you to reach into and out of it easily, particularly if you're under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening, which can cause your baby to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs have attached changing areas, which can make diapering easier and faster. They are handy however they require more space than traditional cribs. They might not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials the crib is made from. The majority of cribs are constructed from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Choose a crib that is constructed from solid wood or has a metal base instead.