It's Time To Upgrade Your Baby Crib Options
Choosing a Baby Crib
It's exciting to design a nursery, however, choosing the crib will be one of the most important decisions. The crib in which your baby sleeps in will have a major impact on their health and development whether it's the style of the slats or mattress height.
Remember that nails and bolts can become loose over time, so make sure you check your crib hardware regularly. Also, avoid placing your crib close to curtains or window blinds that hang, which can create a strangulation risk for your baby.

Size
Size is an important factor to consider when shopping for the perfect crib. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, but small enough so that you can safely reach your baby to attend to them. It should be strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed out of metal or wood, and the majority of them come with sliding sides. These features are designed to let caregivers observe the baby from various angles and ensure the proper flow of air. Cribs are available until your child reaches the age of two.
Most cribs are equipped with a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby develops. The lowest setting is best for newborns, while the highest setting is ideal for babies who are able to sit up or crawl. Make sure you measure the inside of your crib to make sure that the mattress is suitable as the slatted structure of most cribs may leave tiny gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer non-standard cribs and mattresses that meet the same safety standards of full-size cribs. These include portable infant beds, bassinets, and play yards. These cribs typically have rigid or mesh sides, and they are generally smaller in size than the full-size cribs.
If you decide to purchase an alternative crib, be sure to check the manufacturer's guidelines for mattress size guidelines. There may be specific specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also recommended to test the gap between the crib and mattress to be sure that it is not more than 1 inch which is the most safe space.
A waterproof cover can protect your baby's mattress from spills and accidents. Choose one with an antimicrobial barrier that helps reduce bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you are considering a crib that has drop-sides, know that they've been associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and were banned in the US in 2011. Even if you intend to purchase or receive a drop-side baby crib, make sure to dispose of it when your child reaches 35 inches or can get out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is the safest place for your child. It is a place for them to rest but also a space where you can keep them close and check on them often. There are many crib models and brands on the market. However, all have to meet certain safety requirements. These standards are established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they make sure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
Before you place your child in the crib ensure that the crib is clean, free of dander and dust. Take away any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the bed. Also, do not use any pillows or blankets in the crib as they could cause the suffocation of children. Instead, use mattress pads and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs must conform to formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act. L. 112-199) and that cribs made of composite wood should be inspected to determine if they are in compliance. The CPSC has concluded that, although these requirements do NOT directly apply to cribs or other furniture made from composite wood, it is still appropriate to require conformity with this important law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement to tighten fasteners in between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not something we would consider. The shake test and the vertical mattress support tests are dynamic tests that simulate and speed up crib abuse. Screws that are loose are the 2nd leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon EWS incident information. The data shows that the most frequent hazards that are associated with cribs include drop-sides and unsafe mattresses. We have decided to concentrate our focus on these issues and incorporate the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard. The incorporation of reference standards is the best way to ensure that the cribs' safety is maintained in a consistent and effective manner.
Style
It's a satisfying and exciting process to design the nursery of your baby's. The crib is the focal point of any nursery, so it is important to pick one that matches your style and compliments the decor. There are numerous elegant cribs to choose from that you can choose from modern and minimalist or more traditional. There are options available in every price range, from the cheapest to luxurious. Be certain that the crib you select conforms to all safety standards.
A crib is a tiny bed that is specifically designed for infants and babies. It is made of sturdy materials such as wood and has slatted wall panels to allow for a safe airflow. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, however they offer more functionality 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's slats for example, should not exceed 6 centimeters (about the width of a bottle of soda) apart. You should also beware of cutouts or ornaments in the headboard and footboard.
Additionally the mattress should fit comfortably within the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause infants legs and arms to become entangled. Many cribs include stabilizer bars to help keep the mattress in place. If your crib does not come with stabilizer bars, then you'll need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A mattress that is low-level is another advantage of a quality crib that prevents children from climbing up the crib's edge. It's a great option for smaller parents or rooms with a limited space, but be sure to verify the mattress's height prior purchase. The majority of mattresses will include a sticker at the corner which lists the crib's minimum and maximum heights.
If you're looking for an infant crib that grows with your child, you should consider purchasing a convertible crib. These cribs can be transformed into an infant's bed, a daybed, or even a bed that is full size. good cribs , such as the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 have conversion kits. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs cost hundreds of dollars Some cribs are more affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 Crib for instance, is priced less than $200 and has been highly rated 5 stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has an overall profile that is medium height, making it simple to get your child inside and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. It is easy to set up and folds down in a few minutes. It can be used inside or out on a patio or deck. It is suitable for babies who weigh up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however since your baby will outgrow it in about six months.
There are also bassinets that are budget-friendly and cradles that can be used for the initial few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. They cost more but they are smaller and easier to move. They are only a temporary crib for sleeping and your baby will outgrow it before their first birthday.
A quality crib should have a sturdy, solid mattress support that is able to be adjusted in four different positions, based on your baby's growth. great crib must be low enough for you to reach into and out of it easily, especially if you're under 5'5. Some cribs have posts that are more than 1 8 inch above the mattress opening which could cause your child to be trapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs come with separate changing rooms which can make diapering a little easier and faster. Although they are convenient, they tend to take up more space than traditional cribs and may not be the best choice for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials that the crib is made from. Many traditional cribs are made of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Instead, opt for a crib made of solid wood or with a metal base.