Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting experience, but choosing the right crib is among 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 the mattress height.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails could get loose over time. Be sure to avoid placing your crib close to window blinds or drapes that hang, which can pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to consider when purchasing a crib. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, but small enough for you to reach them in a safe manner to care for them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed out of metal or wood, and a majority come with sliding sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from various angles and to ensure proper air flow. Cribs are available until your child is of two.
The majority of cribs have an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to meet your baby's growth. The lowest setting is suitable for newborns, whereas the highest setting is ideal for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to make sure that the mattress fits, as the slatted design of most cribs may leave small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds, and play yards. These cribs are smaller than the standard ones and come with mesh or rigid sides.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you select a crib that isn't standard. There could be specific requirements that are different from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. It is also recommended to check the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure that it is not more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover for your baby's mattress can help keep it clean and safe from spills or accidents. Choose one with an antimicrobial layer that eliminates bacteria and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib with drop-sides, know that they've been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and were banned in the US as of. Even if you plan to buy or receive a crib with drop sides ensure that you get rid of it once your child reaches 35 inches or has the ability to climb out.
Safety
A baby crib is the most secure place for your child. It's not just a place to rest but also where you can observe and hold them often. There are a myriad of cribs and brands on the market all of them must comply with certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for infants.
Before you put your child in the crib make sure the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, remove any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Also, don't put any pillows or blankets in the crib as they could cause suffocation. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to meet formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and cribs constructed of composite wood must be tested to determine if they are in compliance. Although these regulations do not directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement to tighten fasteners between dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this idea. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to replicate and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. The loose screw is the second leading cause of crib deaths.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident information. The data shows that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are mattresses that are not safe and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular attention on these concerns and to incorporate the performance standards already incorporated into the standard that is currently mandatory. Incorporation by reference is the most effective method to ensure that the safety of cribs is ensured in a consistent and efficient way.
Style
Designing your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. The crib is the focal element of any nursery cots, so it is important to select one that fits your style and complements the decor. There are a variety of elegant cribs to choose from that you can choose from modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options for everyone's budget, from the most affordable to upscale. Make sure that the crib you select meets all safety requirements.
A crib is a compact special bed designed specifically for infants and children. It features slatted walls to provide safe ventilation and is often constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are usually 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 that are available, however all must be in compliance with safety standards. The crib's slats for instance, should not be more than 6 centimeters (about the width of a can of soda) apart. Also, you should avoid cutting outs or decorative shapes on the footboard and headboard.
In addition, the mattress must fit snugly inside the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the crib and mattress could allow infants' arms or legs to get caught in. A lot of cribs have stabilizer bars that assist in keeping the mattress in place. If your crib doesn't have stabilizer bars, you will need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A great crib also has a low-sitting mattress, which helps prevent toddlers from climbing over the edge of the crib. It's a great crib option for smaller parents or rooms with limited space However, be sure to check the mattress's height prior make your purchase. Most mattresses will have a sticker on the corner, which shows the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
If you want a crib that can grow with your child, think about buying a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into an infant bed, a daybed and even a bed that is full size. Some of the cribs on our list, such as 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 the majority of cribs are priced at hundreds of dollars Some cribs are more affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib is one of them. It costs less than $200 and has been rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a profile that is moderate in height, making it simple to get your child inside and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another crib that is budget-friendly. This portable play and sleep option is easy to install and folds away in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or out on a deck or patio. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however as your cheap baby cots for sale will outgrow it after about six months.
There are also affordable bassinets and cradles that are suitable for the beginning of the first few months, which allows you to keep your baby in a safe and secure environment. While they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easier to move around. They're only a temporary crib for sleeping and your baby will outgrow it before 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 size. It should be low enough to let you reach in and out easily, especially in the case of children under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that stand higher than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening, which could cause your child to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs have attached changing areas, which can make diapering easier and faster. They are useful however they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials the crib is made from. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Find a crib that is made from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.