Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery however, choosing the crib will be one of the most crucial choices. Whether it's the design of the slats, mattress height or conversion capabilities, the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their development and health.
Keep in mind that bolts and nails can wiggle loose over time, so be sure to check your crib hardware regularly. Also, don't place your crib near curtains or window blinds that hang, which can pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
When you are looking for the perfect crib, size is an important aspect. The crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleeping baby, but compact enough that you can be able to reach them easily and care for them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed from metal or wood and the majority of them come with sliding sides. These features let caregivers see the baby from various angles and promote airflow. Cribs are available until your child is of two.
Most cribs are equipped with an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to suit your baby's growth. The lowest setting is suitable for infants, whereas the highest setting is suitable for babies who sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to make sure the mattress will fit, as the slatted design of most cribs may leave small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer cribs with non-standard sizes and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include play yards, portable infant beds, and bassinets. These cribs typically come with mesh or rigid sides, and they are generally smaller in size than cribs that are full-size.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to determine the recommended mattress size if you choose one that isn't standard. There may be specific specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. You should also test the gap between the crib and mattress to be sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bed from spills and accidents. Select one that has an antimicrobial layer that eliminates bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're thinking about buying a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were associated with 32 baby deaths between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US since. If you do decide to buy a drop-side crib or receive one as a hand-me-down make sure you eliminate it when your baby is 35 inches tall or has the ability to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It is not only an area to rest, but also a place where you can observe and hold them often. There are many crib models and brands on the market. However, they all must meet certain safety requirements. 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 dander and dust. Remove any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the bed. Don't put any blankets or pillows inside the crib. They could cause the suffocation of children. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested cribs should conform to formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be inspected for conformity. The CPSC has concluded that, although these rules do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is still appropriate to enforce conformity with this important law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement of tightening fasteners between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not a good idea for us. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to replicate and increase the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screws are the second leading cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data show that the most common hazards associated with cribs are drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. best crib newborn decided to pay particular focus on these issues and to incorporate the standards of performance already in the existing mandatory standard. The incorporation of reference standards is the best method to ensure the safety of cribs is ensured in a consistent and efficient way.
Style
The process of designing your baby's nursery can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The crib is the main focal point of any nursery, so select one that fits your style and complements the decor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there's a wide selection of stylish cribs to choose from. There are options for every budget, from affordable to high-end. Be sure that the crib you choose is safe and meets all safety standards.
A crib is a small bed that is specially designed for infants and babies. It is constructed from sturdy materials such as wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for a safe airflow. Cribs can be larger and more expensive than bassinets but offer greater functionality during the first three years of your child's existence.
There are a variety of styles of cribs available on the market, but they all must be in compliance with strict safety standards. The crib slats, as an instance, shouldn't exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. Also, you should beware of cutouts or ornaments in the footboard and headboard.
Additionally the mattress should be able to fit comfortably within the crib's opening. This is essential because gaps between the mattress and crib could allow infants' arms or legs to get entangled. Many cribs include stabilizer bars to help keep the mattress in place. If your crib does not include stabilizer bars, you'll need to buy an additional mattress pad for support.
A great crib also has a low sitting mattress level, which helps prevent children from stepping over the edge of the crib. It's an excellent feature for parents with smaller children or rooms with limited space, but be sure to measure the mattress's height prior purchase. Most mattresses include a sticker on the corner, which lists the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
You should consider buying a convertible crib if you want your crib to change with your child. These cribs can be transformed into a toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Some cribs on our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with 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, for example, costs less than $200 and has been rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium-height profile which makes it easier for you to take your baby into and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. This portable crib for sleep and play is easy to set up and folds down in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors or out on a deck or patio. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a permanent solution for sleeping, as your child will outgrow the product after six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cradles you can use during the first few weeks to keep your baby comfortable and close. They're more expensive however they are smaller and easier to move. However, they are only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.
A good crib will include a mattress support that is strong and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's weight. It should be low enough to allow you to get in and out easily, especially when you are less than 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that stand higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress opening which could cause your child to be trapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs come with separate changing rooms which can make diapering a little easier and faster. Although they are convenient however, they take up more space than traditional cribs and may not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials that the crib is made from. A lot of cribs are made from particleboard which contains formaldehyde. Look for a crib made from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.