Choosing a Baby Crib

Designing a nursery is an exciting time, but picking the crib is one of the most crucial decisions you will make. It doesn't matter what design of the slats, mattress height or conversion capabilities the crib that your baby sleeps on will affect their health and development.

Keep in mind that bolts and nails can be loose in time, so be sure to check your crib hardware regularly. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to drapes or blinds that hang on the ceiling, as they could create an injury risk to your baby.

Size

When shopping for the perfect crib size is a crucial aspect. The crib should be large enough to fit a sleeping baby, yet small enough that you can reach them safely to care for them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand daily wear and tear.

The majority of cribs are constructed of metal or wood and come with side panels that are slatted. These features allow caregivers to observe the baby from different angles and also encourage airflow. Cribs can be used 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 ideal for infants, whereas the highest setting is suitable for babies who sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior 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.

Manufacturers have cribs and mattresses that aren't standard sizes, yet comply with the same safety standards. These include portable infant beds, bassinets and play yards. These cribs are smaller than the standard ones and have mesh or rigid sides.

If you opt for a crib that is not standard, make sure you check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress sizes. There may be specific requirements that differ 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's not larger than 1 inch, which is the maximum safe space.

A waterproof mattress cover can keep it clean and safe from accidents or spit-up. Find one that has an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.

If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop-sides, be aware that they've been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and are banned in the US as of. If you do decide to buy or receive a drop-side baby crib be sure to remove it when your child reaches 35 inches or is able to be able to climb out.

Safety

A baby crib is among the most secure places for your child to sleep. It is not only an area to rest, but also a place to be able to see them and hold them frequently. There are a variety of brands and models of cribs on the market all of them must be able to meet certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.

Before putting your child in the crib ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Take away any toys or stuffed animal that might fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any blankets or pillows in the crib; these can cause suffocation. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.

Some commenters suggested that cribs should conform to formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 111-199) and cribs constructed of composite wood must be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. The CPSC has determined that, although these rules do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is appropriate to insist on the compliance of this law.

Some commenters suggested that the requirement that fasteners are tightened after dynamic tests should be added to the crib standard being revised. We strongly disagree with this idea. The shake test and vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and speed up crib abuse. The loose screw is the second most frequent cause of crib fatalities.

Other comments were based upon the EWS incident data. These data indicate that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these issues in the new rulemaking process and to incorporate the performance standards that are already contained in the existing mandatory standard by reference. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.

Style

It's a satisfying and exciting process to design the nursery of your baby's. The crib is the main focal element of any nursery, so pick one that matches your style and complements the decor. There are many stylish cribs available that you can choose from modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are options for every budget, from affordable to luxurious. Make sure that the crib you pick is safe and meets all safety standards.

A crib is a small bed designed specifically for infants and children. It is constructed of durable materials like wood, and has slatted wall panels to allow safe ventilation. Cribs are often larger and more expensive than bassinets however they offer more functionality during the first three years of your child's life.

There are a variety of styles of cribs available on the market, but they all must be in compliance with strict safety standards. The crib's slats for instance, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a can of soda) apart. It is also recommended to avoid decorative shapes or cutouts on the footboard and headboard.

The mattress must also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and mattress can cause babies legs and arms to become entangled. Many cribs come with stabilizer bars that help keep the mattress in its place. If your crib does not have stabilizer bars, you will need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.

A great crib also has a mattress that is low that helps keep toddlers from climbing over the edge of the crib. It's a great feature for smaller parents or rooms with a limited space Be sure to measure the mattress's height prior to you make your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.

Consider buying a convertible crib if you want your crib to grow with your child. These cribs can be converted into a toddler's cot bed sales, a daybed, or even a full size bed. A few of the cribs on our list, including the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca cots 4 tots-in-1, have conversion kits included. The rest will 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 costs less than 200 dollars and has been 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is moderate in high, making it easy to get your child in and out.

Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. The portable sleep and play option is easy to set up and folds in just an hour. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors on a deck or patio and is suitable for babies up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleeping solution, however, because your baby will grow out of it after about six months.

There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that you can use for the first few weeks to keep your baby comfortable and close. While they're more expensive than a standard crib, they are also more compact and easy to move around. But, they're only a temporary sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them before the first birthday.

A good crib should be sturdy and secure mattress support that can be adjusted to four different positions, depending on the development of your baby. It should be low enough for you to reach in and out of it easily, especially when you're less than 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the opening of the mattress that could cause your child to become stuck while they play or try to climb.

Some cribs have attached changing areas that can make diapering easier and quicker. While they are useful, they tend to take up more floor space than traditional cribs and might not be the best cot beds option for smaller nurseries.

Take a look at the materials the crib is made from. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Choose a crib that is made from solid wood or comes with an aluminum base instead.