Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery, but picking the crib will be one of your most crucial decisions. The crib in which your baby sleeps in will have a significant impact on their development and health, whether it is the style of the slats, or the mattress height.
Remember that bolts and nails can be loose in time, so be sure to check your crib's hardware frequently. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to blinds or drapes hanging on the ceiling, as they could create the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
Size is an important factor to consider when shopping for the right crib. The crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy baby, yet small enough to allow you to be able to reach them easily and take care of them. It should be strong enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood and most include slatted sides. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and to ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.
Most standard cribs come with a mattress height that can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's growth. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns. The most advanced setting is for infants who can sit up or crawl. Measure the crib's interior to ensure that the mattress will fit. The slatted design can leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Manufacturers offer mattresses and cribs that aren't standard sizes, but still have the same safety standards. These include portable infant beds, bassinets and play yards. These cribs are smaller than the standard ones and have mesh or rigid sides.
If you decide to purchase an alternative crib, be sure to look up the manufacturer's guidelines to determine mattress size recommendations. They might have specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress dimension of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Also, you should examine the space between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure it's not more than one inch. This is the minimum safe distance.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's mattress from spills and accidents. Find one that has an antimicrobial layer to cut down on the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that eliminates allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were associated with 32 deaths of babies between 2000 and 2010. They have been outlawed in the US since 2011. Even if you plan to buy a drop-side crib or get one as a gift, be sure to eliminate it when your baby is 35 inches tall or can be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It's a space for them to rest but also a space where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. While there are many different brands and models of cribs on the market each one must meet certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before you place your child in the crib make sure that it is clean, free of dust and dander. Take away nursery cots or stuffed animals that may fall out of the bed. Also, don't use any blankets or pillows in the crib as they could cause suffocation. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should comply with the formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be inspected to determine if they are in conformity. The CPSC has determined that, although these rules do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is still appropriate to insist on compliance with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that a requirement that fasteners be retightened between dynamic tests should be included in the crib standard being revised. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The shake test as well as the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and increase the crib abuse. Loose screws are the second leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident information. The data shows that the two most common crib dangers are mattresses that are not safe and drop-sides. We decided to focus our attention on these issues and incorporate the standards of performance already in the current mandatory standard. Incorporation by reference is the most effective method to ensure that the cribs' safety is maintained in a consistent and effective way.
Style
It is a rewarding and thrilling experience designing your baby's nursery. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it's crucial to choose a crib that is in keeping with your style and matches the room's décor. There are numerous chic cribs available regardless of whether you're looking for something modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are options for every budget, from affordable to luxurious. Make sure the crib you select is safe and meets all safety standards.
A crib is a compact bed that is specifically designed for babies and infants. It is constructed of durable materials such as wood and has slatted wall panels to allow for a safe airflow. 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 must be in compliance with safety standards. The crib's slats for instance, should not be more than 6 centimeters (about the width of a can of soda) apart. You should also avoid decorative shapes or cutouts on the footboard and headboard.
Additionally the mattress should fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants' arms and legs to get caught in the crib. Many cribs come with stabilizer bars that assist in keeping the mattress in place. If your crib doesn't have stabilizer bars, you will need to purchase a mattress pad as extra support.
A great crib also has a mattress that is low that helps keep children from stepping over the crib's edge. This is a fantastic feature for parents with small children or rooms that are limited in space. But, be sure to measure the mattress's height prior your purchase. The corner of the majority of mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
You should consider buying a convertible crib if you would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be converted into a toddler's bed, 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, come with conversion kits. The rest will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While most cribs cost hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is priced at less than 200 dollars and has been rated 5 stars by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is moderate in high, making it easy to get your child in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. It is simple to put together and folds in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or outside on a patio or deck and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a permanent solution to sleeping because your child will outgrow the product within six months.
You can also find affordable bassinets and cradles you can use for the first few weeks to keep your baby comfortable and close. They're more expensive, but they are also smaller and easier to move. However, they are only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A good crib will have a mattress support that is sturdy and secure, and is able to be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's size. 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 feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the opening of the mattress This can cause your child to be stuck while they play or attempt to climb.
Some cribs come with an attached changing area that can make diapering a little more convenient and quicker. These are convenient however they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials the crib is made from. Many traditional cribs are made of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Find a crib that is constructed from solid wood or comes with a metal base instead.