10 Baby Crib-Friendly Habits To Be Healthy
Choosing a Baby Crib
The process of designing a nursery can be an exciting time, but picking the right crib is among the most important decisions you will make. It doesn't matter what design of the slats, mattress height or the ability to convert the crib the baby sleeps in will affect their health and development.
Keep in mind that nails and bolts may become loose over time, so check your crib's hardware frequently. Avoid placing your crib in close proximity to blinds or drapes hanging on the ceiling, as they could create an injury risk to your baby.
Size
When shopping for the perfect crib size is a crucial aspect. The crib should be big enough to fit a sleeping baby, but small enough for you to reach them in a safe manner to care for them. It should be sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are constructed of metal or wood and come with slatted side panels. These features let caregivers see the baby from various angles and encourage airflow. Cribs can be used from birth until your child is around two years old. of age, at which point they require moving into the toddler bed.
Most standard cribs have a mattress support height that can be adjusted or raised as your baby grows. The lowest setting is best infant cribs for newborns. The most advanced setting is for infants who are able to sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the inside of your crib to make sure that the mattress fits because the slatted style of most cribs can create small gaps that could be dangerous for your baby.
Some manufacturers offer cribs with non-standard sizes and mattresses that have the same safety standards as full-size cribs. These include play yards, portable infant beds, and bassinets. These cribs usually have mesh or rigid sides, and are generally smaller in size than full-size cribs.
Review the manufacturer's guidelines to determine the recommended mattress size in case you choose one that isn't standard. They might have specifications that differ from the standard crib mattress size of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. You should also be sure to check the distance between the crib mattress and the crib to make sure it's not more than 1 inch. This is the most safe distance.
A waterproof cover will protect your baby's mattress from accidents and spills. Look for one with an antimicrobial layer that reduces the growth of bacteria as well as a hypoallergenic barrier that blocks allergens.
If you're thinking about buying a crib with drop sides, be aware that they've been linked to 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010 and have been banned in the US since. Even if you plan to purchase or get a crib with drop sides for your baby, make sure to get rid of it once your child reaches 35 inches or is able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for babies is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It is not only a place to rest but also a place to observe and hold them often. There are a myriad of cribs and brands available each one must comply with certain safety standards. The Consumer Product Safety Commission sets these standards to ensure that cribs are safe for babies.
Before putting your child in the crib make sure that it is clean, free of dander and dust. Also, take away any toys or stuffed animals that may fall out of the crib. Use no blankets or pillows within the crib. They could cause suffocation. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
Some commenters suggested that cribs ought to be required to comply with the formaldehyde emission standards outlined in the Formaldehyde Standards for Wood Products Act (Pub. L. 112-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be tested for compliance. Although these regulations are not directly applicable to cribs but the CPSC has ruled that it is appropriate to demand that cribs and other furniture made of composite wood meet the requirements of this important new law.
Others suggested that the new crib standard should contain a requirement to retighten fasteners in between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not acceptable to us. The shake test and the vertical mattress support impact tests are dynamic tests that simulate and speed up crib abuse. Loose screw is the second most common cause of crib fatalities.
Other comments were based on the EWS incident information. These data show that the two most common crib hazards are unsafe mattresses and drop-sides. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these concerns in the new rulemaking and to include the performance standards already included in the existing mandatory standard by reference. By incorporating them by reference, we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
The process of designing your baby's nursery can be an exciting and rewarding process. The main focal point of any nursery is the crib, therefore it's crucial to choose a crib that is in keeping with your style and compliments your room's decor. There are many stylish cribs available regardless of whether you're looking for something modern and minimalist or traditional. There are cribs for every budget, from the cheapest to high-end. Be sure that the crib you select is safe and meets all safety standards.
A crib is a compact crib designed especially for babies and infants. It is constructed of durable materials such as wood and features slatted wall paneling to allow for a safe airflow. Cribs are generally larger than bassinets, and can be more expensive, however they are more functional for your baby's early years.
There are a variety of crib styles that are available, however all must meet safety standards. For instance the crib slats need to not be more than 6 centimeters apart (that's approximately the size of a soda container), and you should stay clear of ornamental cutouts or designs on the footboard or headboard.
The mattress should also fit snugly in the crib's opening. This is important because gaps between the mattress and crib can cause infants legs or arms to get caught in. Many cribs come with stabilizer bars that help keep the mattress in position. If your crib does not include stabilizer bars, you will need to purchase a mattress pad to provide additional support.
A great crib also has a mattress that is low that helps keep children from climbing over the crib's edge. It's an excellent feature for smaller families or rooms that are small However, be sure to measure the mattress's height prior make your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will indicate the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
Consider buying a convertible crib if would like your crib to expand with your child. These cribs can be transformed into an infant's Cot Bed, a daybed or even a full-size bed. Some cribs, like the Babyletto Hudson 4-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 3-in-1 are equipped with conversion kits. The rest require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost hundreds of dollars, some cribs are affordable. The Graco Classic 4 in 1 Crib costs less than 200 dollars and is 5 stars rated by BabyCenter and Baby Bargains. It also has a medium height profile that makes it simple to take your baby into and out.
Another affordable crib is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable play cots and tots sleep option is simple to put together and folds in a matter of minutes. It can be used indoors as well as outdoors on a deck or patio and is suitable for infants up to 15 pounds. It is not a permanent sleeping solution, however, as your baby will outgrow it in approximately six months.
There are also budget-friendly cradles and bassinets that can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby snug and close. They cost more however they are smaller and easier to move. They are not a permanent sleep solution for your baby and they will outgrow it by the time they reach their first birthday.
A crib that is of good quality should include a sturdy, secure mattress support that can be adjusted to four different positions based on the development of your baby. It should be low enough to allow you to reach in and out of it easily, especially when you're less than 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that are higher than 1 8 inch above the opening of the mattress that could cause your child to get trapped while they play or try to climb.
Some cribs come with attached changing rooms, which makes diaper changing easier and quicker. These are convenient, but they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be the best option for smaller nurseries.
Consider the materials the crib is constructed of. Many traditional cribs are made of particleboard. These materials can contain formaldehyde which is a known carcinogen. Instead, choose a crib made from solid wood or with a steel base.
