10 Healthy Baby Crib Habits
Choosing a Baby Crib
Designing a nursery is an exciting time, but picking the right crib is among the most important decisions you'll ever make. The crib in which your baby sleeps will have a significant impact on their development and health whether it's the style of the slats or mattress's height.
Examine the crib's hardware frequently. Bolts and nails may get loose over time. Also, don't place your crib near curtains or window blinds that hang, which can pose a strangulation hazard for your baby.
Size
Size is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a crib. A crib should be big enough to accommodate a sleepy infant, but small enough so that you can safely reach your baby in order to talk to them. It should also be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
The majority of cribs are constructed of metal or wood, and are fitted with sides that are slatted. These features are designed to allow caregivers to observe the baby from various angles and ensure proper air flow. Cribs are used from birth until your child is around two years old. of age, at which point they have to be moved to the toddler bed.
The majority of cribs come with a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is ideal for newborns, whereas the highest setting is suitable for babies who can sit up or crawl. Take measurements of the crib's interior to ensure the mattress will fit. The slatted design can create small gaps that could pose a risk to your baby.
Manufacturers have top ranked cribs and mattresses that are not standard sizes, but have the same safety standards. These include play yards as well as portable infant beds and bassinets. These cribs are smaller than standard ones and have mesh or rigid sides.
Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size if you choose a crib that isn't standard. They may have specific requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress size of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. Also, you should examine the space between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure it is not more than 1 inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof cover can shield your baby's bedding from accidents and spills. Find one that has an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that eliminates allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop-sides, be aware that they were associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, cots and tots have been banned in the US as of 2011. Even if you plan to purchase a crib with drop sides or receive one as a gift make sure you get rid of it once your baby is 35 inches tall or is able to get out.
Safety
A crib for babies is the most secure spot for your child. It's not just an area for rest but also a place to observe and hold them often. While there are many different models and brands of cribs on the market each one must comply with certain safety standards. These standards are set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and they ensure that the cribs you buy are safe for your baby.
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 animal that might fall out of the crib. Also, don't use any blankets or pillows in the crib; these can cause death by suffocation. Use a fitted sheet or a mattress cover.
Some commenters suggested that cribs should be required to meet formaldehyde emission standards set out in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and cribs made from composite wood should be tested to ensure that they meet the standards. Although these requirements don't directly apply to cribs, the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to require that cribs and other furniture made of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should include the requirement of tightening fasteners after dynamic tests. This suggestion is not a good idea for us. The dynamic tests - such as the shake test and the vertical mattress support impact test - are designed to simulate and accelerate the use and abuse of cribs by children. Screws that are loose are the second leading cause of fatal incidents in cribs.
Other comments were based upon the EWS incident information. These data show that the two most common crib dangers are mattresses that are not safe and drop-sides. We therefore decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking and to incorporate the performance standards that are already included in the existing mandatory standard, with reference. Incorporation by reference is the best infant cribs method to ensure that the cribs' safety is maintained in a consistent and effective manner.
Style
It's an enjoyable and exciting process to design the nursery of your baby's. The centerpiece of any nursery is the crib, therefore it's important to choose one that is in keeping with your style and compliments your room's décor. There are numerous stylish cribs available that you can choose from contemporary and minimalist or traditional. There are options for every budget, from the most affordable to upscale. Be certain that the crib you select conforms to all safety standards.
A crib is a compact special bed designed specifically for infants and children. It is constructed from sturdy materials such as wood and is fitted with slatted wall panels to allow for safe ventilation. Cribs can be larger and more expensive than bassinets however they offer more functionality for the first three years of your child's life.
There are many different types of cribs that are available on the market, but they all have to meet strict safety standards. For instance the crib slats must not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's about the width of a soda can) and you should stay clear of decorative cutouts or shapes in the footboard or headboard.
In addition the mattress should fit comfortably within the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the crib and the mattress can allow babies legs or arms to get caught in. Many cribs come with bars for stabilization that help keep the mattress in position. However, if you own an unstabilized crib, be sure to buy a mattress pad for extra support.
A great crib (Our Web Site) also has a low sitting mattress level, which helps prevent toddlers from climbing over the crib's edge. This is a great feature for parents with children who are smaller or rooms that are limited in size. But, be sure to verify the mattress's height prior your purchase. The majority of mattresses will have a label at the corner which shows the crib's minimum and maximum mattress heights.
Consider purchasing a convertible crib if would like your crib to expand with your child. These types of cribs can be transformed into toddler beds or a daybed, or even a full-size bed. Some of the cribs in our list, like the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits included. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While most cribs are priced in the hundreds of dollars however, there are a few cribs available on the market that are budget-friendly. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib is one of them. It costs less than $200 and is rated 5-stars by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium-height profile that makes it simple to get your baby in and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable play and sleep option is easy to install and folds away in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or out on a deck or patio. It is suitable for babies weighing up to 15 pounds. It's not a long-term sleep solution, however as your baby will grow out of it after about six months.
There are also budget-friendly bassinets and cradles that can be used for the beginning of the first few months, allowing you to keep your baby snug and close. They're more expensive, Best Cots For Newborns but they are also smaller and easier to move. However, they're only a temporary sleeping solution, and your baby will outgrow them prior to their first birthday.
A good crib will include a mattress support that is strong and secure, and can be adjusted to four different positions based on the baby's weight. It must also be low enough to allow you to reach in and out easily, particularly in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs feature posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress opening, which could cause your child to get trapped when they play or climb.
Some cribs feature separate changing rooms that help diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. They are handy however they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a suitable option for smaller nurseries.
You should also consider the materials that the crib is made from. A lot of cribs made from particleboard, which can contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Instead, opt for a crib that is made of solid wood or with a metal base.