Say "Yes" To These 5 Baby Crib Tips
Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting time, however picking a crib is one of the most crucial decisions you will make. It doesn't matter what design of the 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 could become loose over time. Avoid placing your crib near drapes or blinds hanging, as they can pose a strangulation risk for your baby.
Size
Size is a key factor to take into consideration when buying the perfect crib. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, but small enough so that you are able to reach your baby to attend to them. It should be strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
Most cribs are made of metal or wood, and are fitted with sides that are slatted. These features let caregivers observe the baby from different angles and also encourage airflow. Cribs are available until your child is of two.
Most standard cribs come with an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to suit the baby's growing needs. The lowest setting is ideal for infants, whereas the highest setting is good for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to measure the interior of your crib to be sure that the mattress is suitable as the slatted structure of most cribs may create small gaps that could pose a danger 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 tend to be smaller than full-size cribs.
If you opt for an alternative crib, be sure to review the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress sizes. 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 be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure that it is not greater than one inch. This is the minimum safe distance.
A waterproof cover can protect your baby's bed from accidents and spills. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial barrier that helps reduce bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer to block allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop-sides, know that they have been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and were banned in the US in 2011. Even if you plan to buy a drop-side crib or get one as a hand-me-down, be sure to remove it when your baby is 35 inches tall or has the ability to get out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It's a space to relax, but also a place where you can keep them close and check on them frequently. There are many crib models and brands available on the market. But, they all have to meet certain safety requirements. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before putting your baby in the crib, ensure that the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, remove any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Don't put any blankets or pillows inside the crib. They can cause suffocation. Make use of a fitted sheet and mattress covers instead.
Some commenters suggested cribs should be in compliance with formaldehyde emissions standards set forth in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and cribs made from composite wood should be tested to ensure compliance. The CPSC has determined that, although these rules do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is appropriate to require conformity with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should include the requirement to tighten fasteners after dynamic tests. We strongly oppose this suggestion. The shake test as well as the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and accelerate abuse of cribs. The loose screw is the second leading cause of fatalities in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident information. These data reveal that the most frequently cited hazards that are associated with cribs include drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. We decided to pay particular focus on these issues and include the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and effectively.
Style
It is a rewarding and thrilling experience to design your baby's nursery. The centerpiece of any nursery is the crib, so it's crucial to choose a crib that fits your style and compliments your room's décor. There are many elegant cribs to choose from that you can choose from modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are options for every price range, from the cheapest to upscale. Just be certain that the crib you select meets all of the required safety standards.
A crib is a small bed designed specifically for infants and children. It has slatted walls that allow for adequate ventilation and is usually constructed from durable materials such as wood. Cribs are usually larger than bassinets and can be more expensive, but they are more functional for your child's the first three years of life.
There are a variety of crib styles available, but all must be safe to use. The crib slats, for instance, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a can of soda) apart. You should also avoid decorative shapes or cutouts in the headboard and footboard.
The mattress should be able to fit snugly into the crib's opening. This is because any gaps between the crib and mattress can cause infants' arms and legs to get caught in the crib. Many cribs have stabilizer bars that aid in keeping the mattress in place. However, if you own a crib that doesn't, make sure you purchase an extra mattress pad to provide support.
A great crib (Http://nagievonline.Com/) also has a low sitting mattress level that prevents children from stepping over the edge of the crib. This is a great feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are restricted 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 shows the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you want an infant crib that grows with your child, you should consider purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be converted into an infant's bed, great Crib a daybed or even a full-size bed. Some cribs, like the Babyletto Hudson cots 4 tots-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1, come with conversion kits. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars There are a few cribs on the market that are budget-friendly. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib is less than 200 dollars and is 5-star rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium height profile that makes it simple for you to take your baby into and out.
The Munchkin Brica travel pod is another affordable crib. 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 or outdoors on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not intended to be a long-term solution for sleeping as your child will outgrow it after six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that can be used for the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. They are more expensive, but they are also smaller and easier to move. However, they're only a temporary sleeping solution and your baby is likely to outgrow them before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should include a sturdy, solid mattress support that can be adjusted in four different positions, based on the growth of your baby. It must also be low enough to allow you to reach in and out easily, especially when you are less than 5'5. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening This can cause your child to get trapped while they play or attempt to climb.
Some cribs feature attached changing areas that can make diapering a little more convenient and quicker. While these are convenient however, they take up more floor space than traditional cribs and might not be the best rated cribs choice for smaller nurseries.
It is also important to consider the materials that the crib is made from. Many cribs are constructed of particleboard that contains formaldehyde. Instead, look for a crib made from solid wood or with a metal base.