Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting time, but selecting the crib is one of the most important decisions you will make. The crib in which your baby sleeps will have a major impact on their health and development, whether it is the style of the slats, or the mattress's height.
Be aware that nails and bolts can wiggle loose over time, so be sure to check your crib hardware regularly. Avoid placing your crib near blinds or drapes hanging because they could pose the risk of strangulation to your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing the perfect crib. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant but small enough that you are able to safely reach your baby to attend to them. It should be strong enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
Most cribs are made of wood or metal and have sides that are slatted. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from various angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs are utilized from birth until the child is about two years old. of age, at which point they require moving into the toddler bed.
Most standard cribs have a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is best for newborns, while the highest setting is ideal for babies who sit up or crawl. Take measurements of the crib's interior to ensure the mattress is suitable. The slatted design can leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous to your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that have the same safety standards as standard cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant cot bed beds and play yards. These cribs are smaller than full-size ones and come with solid or mesh sides.
If you choose an alternative crib, be sure to check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size recommendations. There may be specific specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress size of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. You should also examine the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure it's not more than 1 inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof mattress cover can help keep it clean and protected from spit-up or accidents. Select one that has an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib that has drop-sides, know that they've been linked to the deaths of 32 infants between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US as of 2011. Even if you plan to purchase a crib with drop sides or receive one from a friend make sure you get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or has the ability to be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is one of the safest places to let your child sleep. 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 myriad of models and brands of cribs available, each one must comply with certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before you put your baby in the crib, make sure it is clean and free of dander and dust. Also, take out any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Do not place any pillows or blankets within the crib. They can cause death by suffocation. Use a fitted sheet and mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should comply with the formaldehyde emissions standards as outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be tested to determine if they are in compliance. While these rules don't directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate cots to tots mandate that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should contain a requirement to retighten 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 mimic and increase the use and abuse of cribs by children. The loose screw is the second leading cause of crib fatalities.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident records. The data shows that the two most common 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 already included in the existing mandatory standard, with reference. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It is a rewarding and exciting experience to design your Baby Cot's nursery. The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so select one that fits your style and compliments the decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there's a wide selection of stylish cribs to choose from. You can find options in every price range, from the cheapest to upscale. Be sure that the crib you pick meets all safety requirements.
A crib is a compact special bed designed specifically for infants and children. It is constructed from sturdy materials like wood, and has slatted wall panels to allow for a safe airflow. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, but they provide more functions for your baby's first three years of life.
There are many different types of cribs on the market, however they all must meet strict safety standards. For example the crib slats need to not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda container), and you should stay clear of ornamental cutouts or designs in the headboard or footboard.
The mattress must also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and mattress can cause babies legs and arms to get caught in the crib. Many cribs have stabilizer bars to assist in keeping the mattress in position. However, if you own a crib that doesn't have them, make sure you purchase mattress pads for additional support.
A great crib also has a low-sitting mattress that helps keep children from climbing over the crib's edge. This is a great Crib feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are restricted in space. But, be sure to measure the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. Most mattresses will include a sticker at the corner which lists the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
If you're looking for an infant crib that grows with your child, consider buying a convertible crib. These cribs can be turned into toddler beds, a daybed and even a bed that is full size. Certain cribs, such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1, come with conversion kits. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars however, there are a few cribs available on the market that are budget-friendly. The Graco Classic cots 4 tots-in-1 crib for instance, is priced less than $200 and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has an overall profile that is medium height, making it simple to take your child in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. The portable sleep and play option is easy to set up and folds in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or outside on a patio or deck and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a long-term solution for sleeping because your child will grow out of the product after six months.
There are also budget-friendly cradles and bassinets that can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. They cost more however they are smaller and easier to move. However, they are only a temporary solution for sleeping, and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A good crib will have a mattress support that is solid and secure, and is able to be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's height. It should be low enough for you to reach into and out of it easily, especially when you're less than 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inches above the opening of the mattress that could cause your child to be trapped as they play or attempt to climb.
Some cribs feature an attached changing area that help diapering a bit easier and faster. These are convenient however they require more space than traditional cribs. They may not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials the crib is made from. The majority of cribs are constructed from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Choose a crib made from solid wood or comes with a metal base instead.