Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery, however, choosing the crib will be one of your most crucial choices. The design of the slats, mattress height or the ability to convert the crib your baby sleeps in will impact their health and development.
Keep in mind that nails and bolts may be loose in time, so check the crib's hardware regularly. Avoid placing your crib near blinds or drapes hanging, as they can pose the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for the perfect crib. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, but compact enough to allow you to be able to reach them easily and take care of them. It should also be durable enough to stand up to the wear and tear of regular use.
The majority of cribs are constructed from metal or wood and the majority of them include the slatted sides. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from various angles and ensure adequate air flow. Cribs are available until your child reaches the age of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is best for babies. The highest setting is ideal for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the inside of your crib to make sure that the mattress is suitable as the slatted structure of most cribs may leave small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Manufacturers have cribs and mattresses that are not standard sizes, but still meet the same safety standards. These include play yards as well as portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than the standard cribs and have solid or mesh sides.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose one that isn't standard. There could be requirements that differ 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 be sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's mattress from spills and accidents. Select one that has an antimicrobial barrier that helps reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you are considering a crib that has drop-sides, know that they were associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and were banned in the US as of 2011. Even if you plan to buy a drop-side crib or get one as a hand-me-down ensure that you remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the most secure place for your child. It is a place to relax, but also a place where you can keep them close and see them often. There are numerous crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all must meet certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for infants.
Before you place your baby in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that could fall out of the crib. Also, don't use any pillows or blankets inside the crib as they could cause suffocation. Use a fitted sheet or a mattress cover.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to meet formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199), and cribs made of composite wood must be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. Although these regulations don't directly apply to cribs, the CPSC has ruled that it is appropriate to mandate that cribs and other furniture made of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the requirement that fasteners are tightened again between dynamic tests should be included in the crib standard being revised. We strongly disagree with this idea. The shake test and the vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and speed up abuse of cribs. Screws that are loose are the second leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident information. These data indicate that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. Therefore, we decided to concentrate on these concerns in the new rulemaking process and to include the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard, with reference. The incorporation of reference standards is the most effective way to ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained in a consistent and effective manner.
Style
It's a satisfying and exciting experience designing your baby's nursery. The focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it is essential to pick one that is in keeping with your style and matches the room's decor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist style or more traditional, there are plenty of chic cribs to pick from. There are options for every budget, from the most affordable to upscale. Just be certain that the crib you choose conforms to all safety guidelines.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specially designed for infants and babies. 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 however they offer more functionality for the initial three years of your child's existence.
There are a variety of crib designs available, but all must meet safety standards. For instance the crib slats must be no more than 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda bottle), and you should stay clear of ornamental cutouts or patterns in the footboard or headboard.
In addition the mattress should fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is essential because gaps between the crib and mattress could allow infants legs or arms to get caught in. Many cribs come with bars for stabilization that assist in keeping the mattress in place. If your crib does not include stabilizer bars, you will need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A mattress that is low-level is another feature of a crib that helps to prevent toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. This is a fantastic feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are small in size. However, make sure to verify the mattress's height prior your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will list the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If you want a crib that grows with your child, you should consider buying a convertible crib. These types of cribs can be turned into an infant bed, a daybed and even a bed that is full size. A few cribs on our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with conversion kits included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars, there are a few cribs on the market that are budget friendly. 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 medium height profile that makes it simple for you to get your baby in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. The portable sleep and play option is easy to assemble and folds in just an hour. It can be used inside or outside, on decks or patios. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a permanent solution for sleeping, as your child will outgrow the product within six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that you can use during the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. They cost more however they are smaller and easier to move. They are not a permanent sleep solution for your baby and they will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A good crib will have a mattress support that is solid and secure, and can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's size. It must be low enough for you to reach in and out of it easily, especially if you're under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that stand more than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening, which can cause your child to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs have separate changing rooms that can help diapering a bit easier and faster. They are useful, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
Think about the materials the crib is made of. Many cribs are made of particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Instead, look for a crib made from solid wood or with a metal base.