Choosing a Baby Crib

The process of designing a nursery is an exciting experience, but choosing the right crib is among the most crucial choices you will make. It doesn't matter what style of slats, mattress height or the capability to convert the crib the baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.

Keep in mind that nails and bolts may wiggle loose over time, so make sure you check your crib hardware regularly. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to drapes or blinds that hang because they could pose the risk of strangulation to your baby.

Size

When you are looking for a crib, size is an important factor. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleeping infant but small enough that you are able to safely reach your baby to attend to them. It should also be sturdy enough to stand up to the wear and tear of everyday use.

The majority of cribs are constructed out of metal or wood, and most include the slatted sides. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and to ensure proper air flow. Cribs can be used until your child is of two.

Most standard cribs come with a mattress height that can be adjusted to suit the baby's growing needs. The lowest setting is best cot newborn 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 structure can create small gaps that could pose a risk for your baby.

Manufacturers offer cribs and mattresses that are not standard sizes, but have the same safety standards. These include play yards and portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs typically come with mesh or rigid sides, and are usually smaller than the full-size cribs.

Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you decide to purchase a crib that is not standard. There may be specific requirements that are different from the standard crib size of 52 inches long and 28 inches wide. It is also important to examine the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure it is not more than one inch. This is the minimum safe distance.

A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bed 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 with drop sides, be aware that they were associated with 32 deaths of babies between 2000 and 2010. They have been banned in the US since 2011. Even if you plan to purchase a crib with a drop-side or receive one as a gift, be sure to get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to get out.

Safety

A crib for babies is the safest place for your child. It's not just an area to rest, but also a place to observe and hold them often. There are a variety of cribs and brands on the market each one must comply with certain safety standards. These standards are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.

Before you put your child in the crib make sure that it is clean and free of dander and dust. Also, take out any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Also, don't put any pillows or blankets in the crib; these can cause suffocation. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.

Some commenters suggested that cribs need to meet formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be tested to determine if they are in compliance. Although these requirements do not directly apply to cribs, the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to mandate that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.

Others suggested that the new crib standard should include the requirement of tightening fasteners in between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not something we would consider. 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 fatalities in cribs.

Other comments were based on the EWS incident data. These data show that the two most frequently reported crib dangers are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We therefore decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking process and to include the performance standards already contained in the existing mandatory standard, with reference. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that crib safety is maintained consistently and efficiently.

Style

Designing your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding process. The crib is the main focal point of any nursery, so choose one that suits your style and complements the decor. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there are plenty of stylish cribs to choose from. There are options for everyone's budget, from the cheapest to upscale. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with all the necessary safety standards.

A crib is a compact bed designed specifically for infants and children. It is constructed of durable materials such as wood and features slatted wall paneling to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs can be bigger and more expensive than bassinets, however they offer more functionality for the first three years of your child's existence.

There are many crib styles that are available, however all must meet safety standards. The crib slats, for example, should not be more than 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.

In addition the mattress should be able to fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is essential because gaps between the crib and mattress can cause infants legs or arms to get caught in. Many cribs include bars for stability to help keep the mattress in place. If your crib doesn't have stabilizer bars, you will need to purchase a mattress pad as extra support.

A great crib also has a mattress that is low that prevents toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. This is a great feature for parents with smaller children or rooms that are small in space. However, it is important to verify the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. Most mattresses will have a label on the corner, which indicates the crib's minimum and maximum heights.

Consider purchasing a convertible crib if you want your crib to change with your child. These types of cribs can be turned into a toddler bed or a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Certain cribs, such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 are equipped with conversion kits. The rest will require an extra purchase.

Budget

While the majority of cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars however, there are a few cribs on the market that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is priced at less than 200 dollars and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a profile that is moderate in height, making it simple to get your child in and out.

Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable crib for sleep and play is easy to set up and folds down in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors on a patio or deck and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a permanent solution for sleeping because your child will outgrow the product within six months.

You can also find affordable cots cradles and bassinets that you can use for the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. They are more expensive however they are smaller and easier to move. They are only a temporary crib for sleeping and your baby will outgrow them before their first birthday.

A crib that is of good quality should include a sturdy, secure mattress support that can be adjusted to four different positions, based on the growth of your baby. It must be low enough for you to reach in 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's opening that could cause your child to be trapped as they play or attempt to climb.

Some cribs come with attached changing areas that help diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. Although they are convenient, they tend to take up more floor space than traditional cribs and may not be the best crib newborn option for smaller nurseries.

Think about the materials the crib is made from. The majority of cribs are constructed from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Find a crib that is constructed from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.