10 Baby Crib Tricks Experts Recommend
Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting time, but selecting a crib is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The crib in which your baby sleeps in will have a major impact on their health and development whether it's the design of the slats or mattress height.
Keep in mind that nails and bolts can be loose in time, so make sure you check your crib hardware regularly. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to drapes or blinds hanging on the ceiling, as they could create the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
When choosing the perfect crib the size is a key factor. The crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping baby, but compact enough for you to reach them safely to take care of them. It should also be sturdy enough to stand up to the wear and tear of daily use.
The majority of cribs are constructed from metal or wood and most have slatted sides. These features allow caregivers to observe the baby from different angles and promote airflow. Cribs are available until your child is of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress height that can be adjusted to meet your Baby Cot Bed's development. The lowest setting is best for newborns. The highest setting is ideal for babies who can sit up or crawl. Take measurements of the crib's interior to ensure that the mattress will fit. The slatted design can leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous to your baby.
Manufacturers offer cribs and mattresses that are not standard sizes, but still have the same safety standards. These include bassinets for infants, portable cribs, and play yards. These cribs usually come with mesh or rigid sides, and they are usually smaller than the full-size cribs.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size if you decide to purchase a crib that is not standard. There could be requirements that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. It is also important to check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure that it is not greater than one inch. This is the maximum safe distance.
A waterproof mattress cover can keep it clean and secure from accidents or spit-up. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer to cut down on bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were linked to 32 baby deaths between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US from 2011. If you do decide to purchase or get a crib with drop sides for your baby be sure to dispose of it when your child reaches 35 inches or can climb out.
Safety
A baby crib is the most secure spot for your child. It's a space to relax, but also a place where you can keep them close and observe them often. There are a variety of crib models and brands on the market. However, they all have to 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 ensure that the crib is clean, free of dander and dust. Also, take out any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Do not place any pillows or blankets inside the crib. They could cause suffocation. Instead, use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must comply with the formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199), and cribs made from composite wood should be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. While these rules are not directly applicable to cribs however, the CPSC has decided that it is appropriate to mandate that cribs and other furniture made from composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement to tighten fasteners in between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The shake test and vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and increase the abuse of cribs. Screws that are loose are the second leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident data. These data indicate that the two most frequent crib sets hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular focus on these issues and include the performance standards already incorporated into the existing mandatory standard. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
The process of designing your baby's nursery can be an exciting and rewarding process. The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so you should pick one that matches your style and complements the decor. There are a variety of chic cribs available that you can choose from modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options available in every price range, from affordable to luxurious. Be sure that the crib you pick meets all of the required safety guidelines.
A crib is a small bed that is specially designed for infants and children. It has slatted walls that ensure an airy environment and is typically constructed from durable materials such as wood. Cribs are often larger and more expensive than bassinets, but offer greater functionality for the first three years of your child's life.
There are a variety of types of cribs that are available on the market, but they all have to meet strict safety standards. The crib slats, as an example, should not be more than 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. Also, you should beware of cutouts or ornaments in the footboard and headboard.
The mattress must be able to fit snugly into the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants legs or arms to get entangled. Many cribs have stabilizer bars to help keep the mattress in position. However, if you own a crib that doesn't have them, make sure you purchase a mattress pad for extra support.
A great crib also has a mattress that is low that prevents toddlers from stepping over the crib's edge. This is an excellent feature for parents with small children or rooms that are small in space. But, be sure to verify the mattress height before making your purchase. Most mattresses have a sticker on the corner, which lists the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
You should consider buying an adjustable crib if you would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be converted into the toddler's cheap cot bed, a daybed, or even a full size bed. Some of the cribs in our list, including the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits that are included. The rest will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced at hundreds of dollars However, there are some cribs that 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 take your child in and out.
Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. It is easy to assemble and folds up in a few minutes. It can be used inside or outside, on a patio or deck. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleep solution, however, since your baby will grow out of it after approximately six months.
There are also budget-friendly 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're only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A quality crib will include a mattress support that is solid and secure, and it can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's height. It must be low enough for you to reach into and out of it easily, particularly in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that extend more than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening This can cause your child to get stuck while they play or attempt to climb.
Some cribs have an attached changing area that can make diapering a little easier and faster. They are useful, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a good option for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials the crib is made from. Many traditional cribs are made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Find a crib that is made from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.