Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery but picking the crib will be one of your most crucial decisions. Whether it's the style of slats, mattress height or the capability to convert the crib the baby sleeps in will impact their development and health.
Check your crib hardware periodically. Bolts and nails can get loose over time. Avoid placing your crib near drapes or blinds that hang on the ceiling, as they could create a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for the perfect crib. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy infant but small enough that you can safely reach your baby to attend to them. It should also be sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
The majority of cribs are made from wood or metal, and a majority include sliding sides. These features let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and promote airflow. Cribs can be used up until your child is of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be lowered or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is best for newborns, while the highest setting is suitable for babies who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the inside of your crib to make sure that the mattress is suitable, as the slatted design of most cribs may create small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that have the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include bassinets, portable infant beds and play yards. These cribs typically have rigid or mesh sides, and they tend to be smaller than full-size cribs.
If you opt for an alternative crib, be sure to check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size guidelines. They may have specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. You should also examine the space between the crib mattress and the crib to ensure it's not more than 1 inch. This is the maximum safe distance.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's bed from accidents and spills. Find one that has an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that stops allergens.
If you're thinking about buying a crib with drop sides, be aware that they were linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010. They have been outlawed in the US since. If you do decide to buy a drop-side crib or receive one as a hand-me-down make sure you get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the most secure spot for your child. It's a space for them to rest, but also a place where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. There are numerous crib models and brands available on the market. However, they all have to meet certain safety requirements. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before putting your baby in the crib, make sure it is clean and free of dust and dander. Remove any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the bed. Also, do not use any pillows or blankets inside the crib as they could cause death by suffocation. Use a fitted sheet or mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must conform to formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be inspected to ensure conformity. The CPSC has determined that, even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is a good idea to insist on conformity with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that a requirement that fasteners be tightened again between dynamic tests should be included in the new crib standard. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The shake test and the vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and increase the abuse of cribs. Screws that are loose are the 2nd leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident information. These data show that the most common hazards associated with cribs are drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. We decided to focus our attention on these issues and include the standards of performance already in the current mandatory standard. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that crib safety is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting experience to design the nursery of your baby's. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it's crucial to choose a crib that is in keeping with your style and compliments your room's décor. If you're looking for a contemporary and minimalist look or something more traditional, there's a wide selection of chic cribs to pick from. There are options for every price range, from affordable to upscale. Make sure the crib you select has all the safety requirements.
A crib is a small bed that is specially designed for babies and infants. It is constructed with slatted walls to ensure an airy environment and is typically constructed from durable materials such as wood. best cots uk can be bigger and more expensive than bassinets, but offer greater functionality for the first three years of your child's existence.
There are a variety of types of cribs on the market, but they all must meet strict safety standards. The crib's slats for instance, shouldn't be more than 6 centimeters (about the width of a bottle of soda) apart. Also, you should avoid decorative shapes or cutouts in the headboard and footboard.
The mattress must also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is essential because gaps between the crib and the mattress can allow babies' arms or legs to become entangled. Many cribs have bars for stabilization that assist in keeping the mattress in place. But if you have a crib that doesn't have them, be sure to buy an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A mattress that is low-level is another characteristic of a quality crib that helps to prevent children from climbing up the crib's edge. It's an excellent feature for smaller parents or rooms with limited space, but be sure to verify the mattress's height prior purchase. Most mattresses will include a sticker at the corner which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
Consider buying a convertible crib if would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be converted into an infant's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Some 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 require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs cost hundreds of dollars However, there are some cribs that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib is one of them. It costs less than $200 and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium-height profile, which makes it easy to get your baby in and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another budget-friendly crib. The portable sleep and play option is simple to put together and folds up in a few minutes. It can be used indoors or outdoors on a patio or deck and is suitable for babies up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleeping solution, however, since your baby will outgrow it after approximately six months.
There are also affordable bassinets and cribs that can be used for the beginning of the first few months, which allows you to keep your baby close and comfortable. They're more expensive but they are smaller and easier to move. They are only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby will outgrow it before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should have a sturdy, secure mattress support that can be adjusted into four different positions, based on the growth of your baby. It should be low enough to let you reach in and out easily, particularly if you are under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are more than 1 8 inches above the mattress opening which could cause your child to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs come with attached changing rooms, which makes diaper changing simpler and faster. While they are useful however, they take up more floor space than traditional cribs, and might not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
Take a look at the materials your crib is made from. A lot of cribs are made from particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Instead, look for a crib that is made of solid wood or with a steel base.