The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting time, however selecting a crib is one of the most crucial decisions you'll make. Whether it's the style of slats, the mattress height or conversion capabilities the crib your baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.
Be aware that nails and bolts can become loose over time, so be sure to check your crib hardware regularly. Do not place your crib near blinds or drapes that hang, as they can pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing the right crib. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleeping infant, but small enough so that you are able to reach your baby to attend to them. It should be strong enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
Most cribs are made of wood or metal and have slatted side panels. These features allow caregivers to view the baby from various angles and promote airflow. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.
The majority of cribs come with a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns. The most advanced setting is for infants who are able to sit up or crawl. Make sure you measure the inside of your crib to make sure the mattress will fit, as the slatted design of a lot of cribs leave tiny gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that comply with the same safety standards as standard cribs. These include play yards and portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than standard ones and come with rigid or mesh sides.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose 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 be sure it is no more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's mattress from spills and accidents. Select one that has an antimicrobial layer that eliminates bacteria, and an anti-allergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're thinking of buying a crib that has drop-sides, you should know that they were associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and were banned in the US as of 2011. Even if you plan to purchase or get a drop-side baby crib ensure that you get rid of it once your child is 35 inches or has the ability to get out.
Safety
A baby crib is among the most secure places for your child to sleep. It is a place to relax, but also a place where you can keep them close and see them often. There are many crib models and brands available on the market. However, all must meet certain safety requirements. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before you put your child in the crib make sure that it is clean, free of dust and dander. Remove any toys or stuffed animal that could fall off the crib. Do not place any pillows or blankets in the crib. They could cause the suffocation of children. Use a fitted sheet and a mattress cover instead.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should conform to formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be tested for compliance. Although these regulations do not directly apply to cribs but the CPSC has ruled that it is appropriate to demand that cribs and other furniture made of composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement of tightening fasteners after 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 mimic and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the second most common cause of fatal accidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident information. These data reveal that the most frequently cited hazards that are associated with cribs include dangerous mattresses and drop-sides. We therefore decided to focus on these issues in the new rulemaking and to include the performance standards that are currently contained in the existing mandatory standard through reference. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that the safety of cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting process 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 matches your style and compliments your room's decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there's a wide selection of chic cribs to pick from. There are options for every budget, from the cheapest to upscale. Be certain that the crib you select conforms to all safety standards.
A crib is a compact crib designed especially for babies and infants. It is made of sturdy materials such as wood and has slatted wall panels to allow safe ventilation. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, but they offer more functionality for your baby's early years.
There are a variety of styles of cribs available on the market, however they all must meet strict safety standards. For instance, the crib slats should not exceed 6 centimeters apart (that's roughly the width of a soda container), and you should not use ornamental cutouts or designs on the footboard or headboard.
The mattress should be able to fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and the mattress could allow infants legs or arms to get caught in. Many cribs come with stabilizer bars that aid in keeping the mattress in position. However, if you own a crib that doesn't have them, be sure to buy mattress pads for additional support.
A quality crib also comes with a low sitting mattress level that helps keep toddlers from climbing over the edge of the crib. This is a great feature for parents with small children or rooms that are limited in space. However, make sure to verify the mattress's height prior your purchase. Most mattresses will have a sticker on the corner, which shows the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
You should consider buying a convertible crib if want your crib to change with your child. These cribs can be converted into toddler beds or a daybed, or even a full-size bed. Some of the cribs on our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits that are included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost hundreds of dollars Some cribs are more affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib, for example, costs less than $200 and has been rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium-height profile, which makes it easy for you to take your baby into and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another budget-friendly crib. This portable play and sleep option is easy to put together and folds in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or outside on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not designed to be a long-term solution for sleeping because your child will outgrow the product after six months.
You can also find budget-friendly cradles and bassinets that you can use during the first few weeks to keep your baby safe and close. They're more expensive but they are smaller and easier to move. But, they're only a temporary solution for sleeping and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.
A quality crib will have a mattress support that is strong and secure, and can be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's height. 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 stand higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which can cause your child to become trapped while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs are equipped with changing areas that makes diaper changing easier and quicker. Although they are convenient, they tend to take up more space than traditional cribs and may not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
Think about the materials your crib is made of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Find a crib that is made out of solid wood or has a metal base instead.
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