Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery is an exciting experience, but selecting the crib is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make. It doesn't matter what style of slats, mattress height or conversion capabilities, the crib that your baby sleeps on will impact their development and health.
Make sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Bolts and nails could become loose over time. Also, avoid placing your crib near drapes or window blinds that dangle, which pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
When shopping for a crib, size is an important factor. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping infant but small enough that you are able to safely reach your child to listen to them. It should be strong enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from metal or wood, and are fitted with sides that are slatted. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and to ensure proper air flow. Cribs are used from birth until your child is approximately two years older, at which point they will need to be moved into the toddler bed.
The majority of cribs have an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to accommodate the baby's growing needs. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns, whereas the highest setting is ideal for babies who sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the interior of your crib to make sure that the mattress is suitable as the slatted structure of a lot of cribs create small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Manufacturers offer cribs and mattresses that aren't standard sizes, but comply with the same safety standards. These include portable infant beds, bassinets and play yards. These cribs are smaller than full-size cribs and have mesh or rigid sides.
If you decide to purchase a crib that is not standard, make sure you check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size guidelines. They might have requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimension of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Also, you should test the gap between the crib and mattress to make sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's bedding from spills and accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial barrier that reduces 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 deaths of babies between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US since. If you do decide to purchase or receive a drop-side baby crib ensure that you dispose of it when your child reaches 35 inches or is able to get out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the most secure spot for your child. It's a place for them to rest, but also a place where you can keep them close and observe them frequently. There are Baby Cot and brands available 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, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Remove any toys or stuffed animal that may fall out of the crib. Also, cot beds use any pillows or blankets in the crib as they could cause death by suffocation. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to comply with the formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199), and cribs made from composite wood should be tested to ensure compliance. Although these requirements do not directly apply to cribs however, the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to demand that cribs and other furniture made of composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Some commenters 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 dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to replicate and increase the use and abuse of cribs by children. Loose screw is the second most common cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident records. The data shows that the two most common crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular focus on these issues and to incorporate the standards of performance already in the standard that is currently mandatory. By incorporating by reference, we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
It's an enjoyable and thrilling experience to design your baby's nursery. The crib is the main focal point of any nursery, so you should select one that fits your style and complements the decor. There are a variety of chic cribs available that you can choose from modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are options available in every price range, from the cheapest to high-end. Be sure that the crib you select meets all safety requirements.
A crib is a small bed that is specifically designed for infants and babies. It is constructed of durable materials such as wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, however they are more functional for your child's early years.
There are a variety of crib designs that are available, however all must be in compliance with safety standards. For example the crib slats need to not exceed 6 centimeters apart (that's approximately the size of a soda container), and you should stay clear of ornamental cutouts or designs in the footboard or headboard.
Additionally the mattress should be able to fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants' arms and legs to become entangled. Some cribs come with bars for stabilization to keep the mattress in place. If your crib doesn't have stabilizer bars, you will need to purchase an additional mattress pad for support.
A mattress that is low-level is another feature of a quality crib that can help keep toddlers from climbing the crib's edge. This is an excellent feature for parents with small children or rooms that are limited in space. However, make sure to verify the mattress height before making your purchase. The majority of mattresses will have a sticker on the corner, which lists the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you are looking for an infant crib that grows with your child, you should consider purchasing a convertible crib. These types of cribs can be converted into toddler beds or a daybed, or even a full-size bed. A few of the cribs in our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, come with conversion kits included. The rest will require an extra purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib, for example, costs less than $200 and is highly rated 5 stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a profile that is medium height, making it simple to get your child in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. This portable sleep-and-play option is simple to put together and folds in just a few minutes. It can be used inside or outside, on decks or patios. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It is not a permanent sleep solution, however, as your baby will grow out of it after approximately six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cribs that can be used for the first few months, which allows you to keep your baby snug and close. While they are a bit more expensive than a standard crib they are also smaller and easier to move around. But, they're only a short-term sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.
A quality crib should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that can be adjusted to four different positions based on the development of your baby. It should also be low enough to allow you to reach into and out easily, particularly if you are under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that extend more than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which can cause your child to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs feature separate changing rooms that make diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. Although they are convenient but they can take up more floor space than traditional cribs and might not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
You should also think about the materials the crib is constructed of. A lot of cribs are made from particleboard which contains formaldehyde. Look for a crib that is constructed from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.