Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery but picking the crib will be one of your most crucial decisions. The crib where your baby sleeps will have a major impact on their health and development, whether it is the style of the slats or mattress height.
Remember that bolts and nails can become loose over time, so check your crib hardware regularly. Also, don't place your crib near curtains or window blinds that dangle, which create a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
When you are looking for a crib, size is an important aspect. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping infant, yet small enough that you are able to safely reach your baby to attend to them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from wood or metal, and a majority include sliding sides. These features are designed to allow caregivers to view the baby from different angles and ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs can be used up until your child reaches the age of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is ideal for babies. The most advanced setting is for infants who can sit up or crawl. Take measurements of the crib's interior to ensure the mattress will fit. The slatted design could leave tiny gaps that could be hazardous to your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that have the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include bassinets for infants, portable cribs and play yards. These cribs usually come with mesh or rigid sides, and are generally smaller in size than the full-size cribs.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you select a crib that is not standard. There could be specific specifications that differ from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. You should also check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure it's not more than one inch. This is the minimum safe distance.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's mattress from accidents and spills. Choose one with an antimicrobial barrier that reduces bacteria, and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib that has drop-sides, you should know that they were linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US as of. If infant cot bed do decide to buy or receive a drop-side baby crib ensure that you get rid of it once your child is 35 inches or can be able to climb out.
Safety
A baby crib is the most secure spot for your child. It's not just an area for rest but also a place where you can observe and hold them often. There are numerous crib models and brands available on the market. However, all must meet certain safety requirements. Mini Cot Bed are laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before you place your child in the crib make sure the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Take away any toys or stuffed animal that could fall off the bed. Also, don't use any pillows or blankets inside the crib; these can cause death by suffocation. Make use of a fitted sheet and a mattress cover.
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. Although these requirements do not directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has decided 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 include the requirement of tightening fasteners in 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 mimic and speed up the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the 2nd leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident information. These data indicate that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are mattresses that are not safe and drop-sides. We therefore decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking and to incorporate the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard by reference. The incorporation of reference standards is the most effective method to ensure the cribs' safety is maintained in a consistent and effective manner.
Style
The process of designing your baby's nursery can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. The centerpiece of any nursery is the crib, so it's crucial to choose a crib that matches your style and compliments your room's décor. There are a variety of elegant cribs to choose from regardless of whether you're looking for something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are options available in every price range, from budget to upscale. Be sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with all the necessary safety guidelines.
A crib is a compact bed that is specially designed for infants and children. It is constructed with slatted walls to allow for safe ventilation and is often built from sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets and can be more expensive, but they provide more functions for your child's early years.
There are many crib styles available, but all must meet safety standards. The crib's slats for example, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the size of a can of soda) apart. It is also recommended to avoid decorative shapes or cutouts in the footboard and headboard.
The mattress should be able to fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and mattress can cause babies' arms and legs to become entangled. Many cribs have bars for stabilization that help keep the mattress in place. If your crib doesn't have stabilizer bars, you'll need to purchase a mattress pad as extra support.
A great crib also has a mattress that is low, which helps prevent toddlers from stepping over the crib's edge. It's a great option for smaller parents or rooms that are small Be sure to check the mattress's height prior purchase. The corners of many mattresses will show the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If you are looking for a crib that can grow with your child, think about purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into a toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Some of the cribs in our list, such as the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with conversion kits included. The rest will require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs cost hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is less than 200 dollars and is 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is medium height, making it simple to take your child in and out.
Another budget-friendly crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep and play option is simple to install and folds away in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors or outside on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It's not a permanent sleeping solution, however, as your baby will grow out of it after approximately six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that can be used for the first few months, which allows you to keep your baby close and comfortable. They cost more but they are smaller and easier to move. They're only a temporary sleep solution for your baby and they will outgrow it by the time they reach their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should include a sturdy, secure mattress support that can be adjusted in four different positions, based on the development of your baby. It should be low enough to allow you to reach into and out of it easily, especially when you're less than 5'5. Some cribs have posts that extend over 1 8 inch above the mattress opening which can cause your baby to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs feature attached changing areas that make diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. They are useful, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a suitable option for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials the crib is made from. A lot of cribs made from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Look for a crib made from solid wood or comes with an aluminum base instead.