Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting time, but choosing the right crib is among the most crucial decisions you'll ever make. The crib where your baby sleeps in will have a major impact on their health and development regardless of the design of the slats, or the mattress's height.
Be aware that bolts and nails can wiggle loose over time, so be sure to check your crib hardware regularly. Also, avoid placing your crib near window blinds or drapes that dangle, which pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
When shopping for a crib size is a crucial factor. top ranked cribs should be big enough to accommodate a sleeping baby, yet small enough that you can reach them safely to care for them. It should also be strong enough to stand up to the wear and tear of daily use.
The majority of cribs are made out of metal or wood, and the majority of them have sliding sides. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs can be used from birth until the child is approximately two years older, at which point they will need to be moved into the toddler bed.
Most standard cribs come with the mattress height which can be adjusted to meet your baby's growth. The lowest setting is ideal for infants. The highest setting is ideal for babies who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to make sure that the mattress is suitable as the slatted structure of most cribs can leave small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that meet the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include play yards as well as portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than full-size ones and have solid or mesh sides.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose one that isn't standard. They may have specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimension of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Also, you should test the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bed from accidents and spills. Find one that has an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib with drop-sides, you should know that they've been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US in 2011. Even if you intend to purchase or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby ensure that you dispose of it when your child is 35 inches or has the ability to be able to climb out.
Safety
A baby crib is the most secure spot for your child. It is not only an area for rest but also where you can be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are a variety of crib models and brands on the market. However, they all must meet certain safety requirements. These standards are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure the cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you put your baby in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Take away any toys or stuffed animal that may fall out of the crib. Use no blankets or pillows within the crib. They can lead to suffocation. Use a fitted sheet and mattress covers instead.
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 cribs made of composite wood must be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. The CPSC has concluded that, although these requirements do NOT directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is a good idea to require conformity with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that a requirement that fasteners be tightened after dynamic tests should be included in the crib standard that is being developed. We strongly disagree with this suggestion. The shake test and the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and speed up crib abuse. Screws that are loose are the second most common cause of crib fatalities.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident data. These data reveal that the most frequently cited hazards that are associated with cribs include drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking process and to include the performance standards that are currently included in the existing mandatory standard, with reference. Incorporation by reference is the best method to ensure the cribs' safety is maintained in a consistent and efficient way.
Style
It's a satisfying and exciting experience to design the nursery of your baby's. The crib is the main focal feature of any nursery, so you should choose one that suits your style and complements the decor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there are lots of chic cribs to pick from. There are best cots for everyone's budget, from affordable to luxurious. Make sure the crib you select has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a small special bed designed specifically for infants and babies. It is constructed from sturdy materials like wood, and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for a safe airflow. Cribs are often larger and more expensive than bassinets but offer greater functionality for the first three years of your child's existence.
There are a variety of crib styles that are available, however all must be in compliance with safety standards. For instance, the crib slats should not exceed 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda bottle) and you should not use ornamental cutouts or patterns in the headboard or footboard.
The mattress should also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and mattress can cause infants legs and arms to get caught in the crib. A lot of cribs have bars for stability to help keep the mattress in place. But if you have a crib that doesn't have them, make sure you purchase a mattress pad for extra support.
A low-level mattress is another feature of a good crib that can help keep toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. It's a great option for smaller parents or rooms with limited space Be sure to check the mattress height before you purchase. The corners of many mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
You should consider buying an adjustable crib if you want your crib to grow with your child. These cribs can be transformed into the toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Some of the cribs on our list, including the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits that are included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars however, there are a few cribs on the market that are budget friendly. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is less than 200 dollars and has been 5 stars rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is medium high, making it easy to get your child in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. The portable sleep and play option is simple to put together and folds up in an hour. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not a permanent sleep solution, however, since your baby will outgrow it in approximately six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that can be used for the beginning of the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby in a safe and secure environment. While they are a bit more expensive than a standard crib, they are also smaller and easy to move around. But, they're only a temporary solution for sleeping, and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.
A quality crib should include a sturdy, secure mattress support that can be adjusted in four different positions based on the development of your baby. It should be low enough to allow you to reach into and out easily, particularly in the case of children under 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 come with separate changing rooms that make diapering a little easier and faster. They are handy, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be a suitable option for smaller nurseries.
Think about the materials that the crib is made from. A lot of cribs made from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Find a crib that is made from solid wood or comes with a metal base instead.