5. Baby Crib Projects For Any Budget
Choosing a Baby Crib
It's thrilling to design a nursery, but picking the crib is one of your most crucial decisions. It doesn't matter what style of slats, the mattress height or conversion capabilities the crib your baby sleeps in will impact their development and health.
Keep in mind that bolts and nails can become loose over time, so be sure to check the crib's hardware regularly. Also, don't place your crib close to drapes or window blinds that dangle, which present a risk of strangulation for your baby.
Size
When shopping for top ranked cribs , size is an important aspect. The crib should be large enough to accommodate a sleepy baby, but small enough that you can be able to reach them easily and care for them. It should be strong enough to withstand the everyday wear and tear.
The majority of cribs are made from wood or metal, and the majority of them have the slatted sides. These features let caregivers view the baby from various angles and promote airflow. Cribs are available until your child reaches the age of two.
Most cribs are equipped with the mattress height which can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's development. The lowest setting is best for babies. The most advanced setting is for infants who can sit up or crawl. Be sure to check the inside of your crib to be sure the mattress will fit 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 come with mesh or rigid sides, and they are generally smaller in size than full-size cribs.
If you choose an alternative crib, be sure to look up the manufacturer's guidelines to determine mattress size recommendations. They might have requirements that differ from the standard crib mattress dimensions of 28 inches wide and 52 inches long. It is also recommended to examine the distance between the crib and mattress to make sure that it is not more than 1 inch, which is the maximum safe space.
A waterproof mattress cover can keep it clean and protected from spills or accidents. Choose a cover with an antimicrobial layer that helps to reduce bacteria, and a hypoallergenic layer that blocks allergens.
If you're considering a crib with drop sides, you should be aware that they were associated with 32 infant deaths between 2000 and 2010, and have been banned in the US since 2011. Even if you plan to purchase or get a crib with drop sides for your baby, make sure to dispose of it when your child is 35 inches or has the ability to be able to climb out.
Safety
A crib for your baby is one of the safest places for your child to sleep. It is not only an area to rest, but also where you can see and hold them frequently. While there are many different 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 infants.
Before you put your child in the crib ensure that the crib is clean and free of dander and dust. Take away any toys or stuffed animals that might fall out of the crib. Do not place any pillows or blankets in the crib. They can cause the suffocation of children. Instead, you should use a mattress pad and a fitted sheet.
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. 111-199) and that cribs constructed of composite wood should be inspected to determine if they are in compliance. While these rules don't directly apply to cribs, the CPSC has determined that it is appropriate to mandate that cribs and other furniture constructed of composite wood comply with this important new law.
Some commenters suggested that the new crib standard should contain the requirement of tightening fasteners in between dynamic tests. This suggestion is not something we would consider. The dynamic tests - such as 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 data. These data show that the most frequent dangers associated with cribs are drop-sides and mattresses that are unsafe. Therefore, we have decided to focus on these concerns in the rulemaking process and to include the performance standards that are currently included in the existing mandatory standard by reference. By incorporating the performance standards by reference we can ensure that safety in cribs is maintained consistently and efficiently.
Style
Designing your baby's nursery is an exciting and rewarding process. The crib is the main focal feature of any nursery, so select one that fits your style and compliments the decor. If you're looking for a modern and minimalist design or more traditional, there are plenty of chic cribs to pick from. There are options available in every price range, from the cheapest to luxurious. Be sure that the crib you select conforms to all safety standards.
A crib is a tiny, specially designed bed for infants and children. It has slatted walls that allow for adequate ventilation and is usually constructed of sturdy materials like wood. Cribs are typically larger than bassinets and may be more expensive, but they provide more functions for your baby's the first three years of life.
There are a variety of crib styles available, but all of them must be in compliance with safety standards. For example 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 decorative cutouts or shapes in the footboard or headboard.
The mattress should be able to fit snugly into the crib's opening. This is because gaps between the crib and the mattress can cause babies' arms and legs to become entangled. Many cribs have stabilizer bars to assist in keeping the mattress in its place. If your crib does not come with stabilizer bars, then you'll need to buy a mattress pad as extra support.
A quality crib also comes with a low sitting mattress level that prevents children from stepping over the edge of the crib. It's a great feature for smaller families or rooms with a limited space Be sure to measure the mattress height before you make your purchase. The corner of most mattresses will show the crib's maximum and minimum mattress heights.
You should consider buying an adjustable crib if you want your crib to change with your child. These cribs can be converted into a toddler's bed, a daybed, or even a full-size bed. A few cribs on our list, such as the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 and Delta Children Tribeca 4-in-1, have conversion kits that are included. The rest will require an additional purchase.
Budget
While the majority of cribs cost in the hundreds of dollars, there are a few cribs available on the market that are affordable. The Graco Classic 4-in-1 crib for instance, is priced less than $200 and has been 5 stars rated by BabyCenter, Baby Bargains, and National Parent Publications. It also has a medium height profile, which makes it easy for you to get your baby in and out.
Another crib that is budget-friendly is the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This portable sleep and play option is easy to put together and folds in just a few minutes. It can be used indoors or out on a patio or deck. It is suitable for infants weighing up to 15 pounds. It is not a permanent sleep solution, however, since your baby will grow out of it after about six months.
You can also find budget-friendly cradles and bassinets that can be used for the first few weeks to keep your baby safe and close. While they're more expensive than a standard crib they are also more compact and easier to move around. 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 will include a mattress support that is sturdy and secure, and can be adjusted to four different positions depending on the baby's height. It should also be low enough to allow you to reach in and out easily, especially in the case of children under 5'5 inches. Some cribs have posts that extend higher than 1 8 inch above the mattress's opening, which can cause your child to become entrapped as they play or climb.
Some cribs feature an attached changing area that help diapering a bit more convenient and quicker. These are convenient however they take up more space than traditional cribs. They may not be a good option for smaller nurseries.
Think about the materials your crib is made from. A lot of cribs are made from particleboard, which is made up of formaldehyde. Instead, look for a crib made of solid wood or with a steel base.