Comprehensive List Of Baby Crib Dos And Don'ts
Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery but choosing the crib will be one of the most important decisions. It doesn't matter what style of slats, mattress height or the capability to convert, the crib the baby sleeps in will impact their health and development.
Keep in mind that nails and bolts can be loose in time, so check the crib's hardware regularly. Avoid placing your crib near drapes or blinds hanging because they could 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 large enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, yet small enough that you are able to reach your child to listen to them. It should be strong enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
Most cribs are made of metal or wood, and are fitted with sides that are slatted. These features let caregivers view the baby from various angles and promote airflow. Cribs can be used up until your child is of two.
The majority of cribs have the mattress height which can be adjusted to meet your baby's development. The lowest setting works best for babies. The highest setting is ideal for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the inside of your crib to be sure that the mattress fits because the slatted style of most cribs can create small gaps that could pose a danger for your baby.
Certain manufacturers offer cribs that are not standard and mattresses that meet the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include play yards as well as portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than the standard ones and come with rigid or mesh sides.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size if you choose one that isn't standard. There may be specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also important to check the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure it's not more than one inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof mattress cover can help keep it clean and safe from spit-up or accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer to cut down on bacteria and a hypoallergenic barrier that eliminates allergens.
If you are considering a crib that has drop-sides, be aware that they've been linked to the deaths of 32 infants between 2000 and 2010, and are banned in the US as of 2011. Even if you intend to purchase or receive a crib with drop sides for your baby be sure to dispose of it when your child is 35 inches or has the ability to get out.
Safety
A baby crib is the most secure spot for your child. It's a space for them to rest and also a place where you can keep them close and see them frequently. There are many crib models and brands on the market. But, they all must meet certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure cribs you purchase are safe for your baby.
Before you place your child in the crib, make sure the crib is clean and free of dust and dander. Also, remove any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Also, do not use any pillows or blankets in the crib; these can cause the suffocation of children. Use a fitted sheet and a mattress cover.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should be required to meet formaldehyde emission standards laid out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and cribs constructed of composite wood must be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. The CPSC has concluded that even though these regulations do not directly apply to cribs or other furniture made of composite wood, it is a good idea to insist on conformity with this important law.
Other commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement of tightening fasteners after dynamic tests. We strongly disagree with this idea. The dynamic tests - the shake test and the vertical mattress support test - are designed to replicate and increase the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the 2nd leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident records. The data shows that the two most frequently reported crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. We decided to pay particular attention on these issues and incorporate the standards of performance already in the standard that is currently mandatory. By reference incorporation is the best method to ensure the cribs' safety is maintained in a uniform and effective manner.
Style
It is a rewarding and exciting experience to design your baby's nursery. The crib is the focal feature of any nursery, so it is important to choose one that suits your style and compliments the decor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist look or something more traditional, there's a wide selection of chic cribs to pick from. There are cribs for every budget, from affordable to luxurious. Be sure that the crib you select meets all safety requirements.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specifically designed for babies and infants. It is constructed with slatted walls to ensure an airy environment and is typically constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are often larger and more expensive than bassinets but offer greater functionality during the initial three years of your child's life.
There are a variety of types of cribs that are available on the market, however they all must meet strict safety standards. The crib slats, as an instance, shouldn't exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a can of soda) apart. You should also beware of cutouts or ornaments in the footboard and headboard.
In addition the mattress should be able to fit comfortably inside the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and mattress can cause infants legs and arms to get caught in the crib. Many cribs come with stabilizer bars that aid in keeping the mattress in position. If your crib doesn't include stabilizer bars, you'll need to buy a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A mattress that is low in height is another advantage of a crib that helps to prevent toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. Baby beds 's a great option for parents with smaller children or rooms with limited space Be sure to check the mattress height before you purchase. The corners of many mattresses will list the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
If you're looking for a crib that grows with your child, consider buying a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into the toddler's bed, a daybed or even a full-size bed. Some cribs on our list, including 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 cost hundreds of dollars However, there are some cribs that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib, for example, costs less than $200 and has been 5 stars rated by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a profile that is medium high, making it easy to get your child inside and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. The portable sleep and play option is easy to assemble 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 is not a permanent sleep solution, however, because your baby will grow out of it after approximately six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cribs that can be used for the beginning of the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby close and comfortable. They cost more but they are smaller and easier to move. They are not a permanent crib for sleeping and your baby will outgrow it before their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should include a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted in four different positions, based on your baby's growth. It must also be low enough to let you get in and out easily, particularly in the case of children under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are over 1 8 inch above the mattress opening, which could cause your child to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs come with attached changing areas which can make diapering a little easier and faster. They are handy, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a good option for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials that the crib is constructed of. A lot of cribs made of particleboard, which may contain formaldehyde, which is a well-known carcinogen. Instead, opt for a crib made of solid wood or with a steel base.