Choosing a Baby Crib

The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting experience, but picking the crib is one of the most important decisions you'll make. It doesn't matter what style of slats, mattress height or the ability to convert, the crib your baby sleeps in will impact their health and development.

Keep in mind that bolts and nails can wiggle loose over time, so check your crib hardware regularly. Be sure to avoid placing your crib near window blinds or drapes that hang down, which could create a strangulation risk for your baby.

Size

When shopping for a crib the size is a key aspect. A crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant but small enough that you are able to safely reach your baby in order to talk to them. It should also be strong enough to stand up to the wear and tear of daily use.

The majority of cribs are made from wood or metal and have slatted side panels. These features allow caregivers to see the baby from various angles and promote airflow. Cribs can be used up until your child reaches the age of two.

The majority of cribs have the mattress height which can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's growth. The lowest setting is best cots for newborns for infants. The most advanced setting is for infants who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the interior of your crib to make sure the mattress will fit as the slatted structure of most cribs can leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.

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

Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size if you decide to purchase one that isn't 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 recommended to test 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 for your baby's mattress can help keep it clean and safe from spills or accidents. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.

If you're thinking of buying a crib with drop-sides, know that they have been linked to the deaths of 32 infants between 2000 and 2010, and are banned in the US as of 2011. If you do decide to purchase or receive a crib with drop sides, make sure to dispose of it when your child is 35 inches or has the ability to be able to climb out.

Safety

A baby crib is the most secure place for your child. It's a space to relax, but also a place where you can keep them close and observe them frequently. There are a variety of brands and models of cribs on the market each one must meet certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.

Before you place your child in the crib make sure the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Take away any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Don't put any blankets or pillows inside the crib. They can lead to the suffocation of children. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.

Some commenters suggested that cribs must conform to formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199), and cribs made of composite wood must be tested to ensure compliance. The CPSC has concluded that, although these requirements do NOT directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is appropriate to enforce the compliance of this law.

Others suggested that the new crib standard should include a requirement to retighten fasteners in between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not a good idea for us. The shake test and the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and increase the abuse of cribs. Screws that are loose are the second leading cause of fatalities in cribs.

Other comments were based upon the EWS incident data. These data indicate that the two most common crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We have decided to concentrate our attention on these concerns and to incorporate the performance standards already incorporated into the current mandatory standard. Incorporation by reference is the most effective method to ensure the cribs' safety is maintained in a consistent and effective way.

Style

Designing your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding experience. The crib is the main focal point of any nursery, so it is important to choose one that suits your style and complements its decor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there are lots of stylish cribs to choose from. There are cribs for every budget, from affordable to upscale. Make sure that the crib you select is safe and meets all safety standards.

A crib is a small Cot Bed that is specially designed for babies and infants. It has slatted walls that allow for adequate ventilation and is usually built from sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, but they are more functional for your child's early years.

There are many different styles of cribs available on the market, however they all have to meet strict safety standards. The crib's slats for example, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a bottle of soda) apart. It is also recommended to beware of cutouts or ornaments in the footboard and headboard.

The mattress must be able to fit comfortably into the crib's opening. This is crucial because gaps between the crib and mattress can allow babies legs or arms to get entangled. A lot of cribs have stabilizer bars to aid in keeping the mattress in position. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, be sure to buy mattress pads for additional support.

A great crib also has a mattress that is low that prevents toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. This is an excellent feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are limited in size. However, make sure to check out the mattress's height prior to making your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will show the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.

You should consider buying an adjustable crib if you would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be transformed into an infant's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. Some cribs on our list, such as 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 most cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars however, there are a few cribs on the market that are budget-friendly. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib for instance, is priced less than $200 and has been rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a profile that is medium height, making it simple to take your child in and out.

The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another budget-friendly crib. This portable sleep and play option is simple to put together and folds in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors on a deck or patio and is suitable for babies up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a permanent solution for sleeping as your child will outgrow it within six months.

There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that are suitable for the initial few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. While they are a bit more expensive than a standard crib, they are also smaller and easy to move around. They are not a permanent sleep solution for your baby and they will outgrow it by the time they reach their first birthday.

A good crib should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted into four different positions based on your baby's growth. It must be low enough for you to reach into and out of it easily, particularly in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that stand more than 1 8 inches above the mattress's opening that could cause your child to get trapped while they play or try to climb.

Some cribs come with an attached changing area that make diapering a bit easier and faster. They are handy, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They might not be the best crib for newborn option for smaller nurseries.

Consider the materials the crib is constructed of. The majority of cribs are constructed of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Look for a crib that is constructed from solid wood or has an aluminum base instead.