What Baby Crib Experts Would Like You To Know
Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting experience, but selecting a crib is one of the most crucial decisions you'll make. The style of slats, mattress height or the ability to convert, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their development and health.
Be aware that nails and bolts may be loose in time, so check your crib's hardware frequently. Avoid placing your crib near drapes or blinds hanging on the ceiling, as they could create the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
When you are looking for the perfect crib size is a crucial aspect. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, but small enough so that you are able to reach your child to listen to them. It should be strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made out of metal or wood, and the majority of them include sliding sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to view the baby from different angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs can be used up until your child reaches the age of two.
Most standard cribs come with an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's growth. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns. The highest setting is for babies who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to be sure that the mattress fits as the slatted structure of most cribs can leave tiny gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include bassinets for infants, portable cribs, and play yards. These cribs often come with mesh or rigid sides, and they tend to be smaller than cribs that are full-size.
If you opt for an alternative crib, be sure to review the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress sizes. There may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. It is also recommended to test the gap between the crib and mattress to be sure it's not larger than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover for your baby's mattress can keep it clean and safe from accidents or spit-up. Select one that has an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib with drop-sides, you should know that they have been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US in 2011. Even if you plan to purchase a crib with drop sides or get one as a hand-me-down, be sure to get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the safest place for your child. It is a place to relax and also a place where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. There are a variety of crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all have to meet certain safety requirements. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure the cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you put your child in the crib make sure that it is clean and free of dander and dust. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Don't put any blankets or pillows in the crib. They can cause the suffocation of children. Make use of a fitted sheet and a mattress cover instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs need to be in compliance with formaldehyde emission standards laid out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 111-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be tested to ensure conformity. While these rules are not directly applicable to cribs however, the CPSC has decided that it is appropriate to demand that cribs and other furniture made from composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Other commenters suggested that a requirement that fasteners be tightened again between dynamic tests should be added to the new crib standard. This suggestion is not a good idea for us. The shake test and the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and accelerate abuse of cribs. The loose screw is the second most common cause of crib fatalities.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident records. These data indicate that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these issues in the rulemaking process and to include the performance standards that are currently included in the existing mandatory standard through reference. Incorporation by reference is the most recommended cribs effective method to ensure the safety of cribs is maintained in a uniform and effective way.
Style
It's a satisfying and thrilling experience to design the nursery of your baby's. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, so it's important to choose one that fits your style and matches the room's décor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there are lots of stylish cribs to choose from. There are options for every budget, from the most affordable to upscale. Make sure that the crib you choose meets all of the required safety guidelines.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specially designed for infants and children. It is constructed of durable materials like wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets and can be more expensive, but they provide more functions for your child's first three years of life.
There are a variety of crib styles available, but all must meet safety standards. For example, the crib slats should not exceed 6 centimeters apart (that's roughly the width of a soda container) and you should avoid using decorative cutouts or shapes in the footboard or headboard.
Additionally the mattress should fit snugly inside the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the crib and mattress can allow babies' arms or legs to become entangled. Many cribs have stabilizer bars that aid in keeping the mattress in position. If your crib does not include stabilizer bars, you'll need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A great crib also has a low-sitting mattress that prevents toddlers from stepping over the crib's edge. This is a fantastic feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are limited in size. However, it is important to measure the mattress's height prior your purchase. Most mattresses include a sticker at the corner which lists the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
Consider purchasing a convertible crib if want your crib to change with your child. These cribs can be transformed into toddler best cot beds, a daybed and even a full-size bed. A few of the cribs on our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs cost hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib, for example, great crib (www.028bbs.com) costs less than $200 and is highly rated 5 stars by BabyCenter, Cheap Baby Cots For Sale Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium-height profile, which makes it easy to take your baby into and out.
Another budget-friendly crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep-and-play option is easy to set up and folds down in a few minutes. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors 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, as your child will outgrow it after 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 snug and close. They're more expensive however they are smaller and easier to move. They're only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow it by the time they reach their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should be sturdy and solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted to four different positions, depending on the growth of your baby. It must be low enough to let you reach in and out easily, especially when you are less than 5'5. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening that could cause your child to become stuck while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs have attached changing rooms, which makes diaper changing easier and faster. While these are convenient but they can take up more space than traditional cribs and may not be the best cots choice for smaller nurseries.
Take a look at the materials your crib is constructed of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Find a crib that is constructed out of solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.