Your baby will probably spend more time in his crib than anywhere else for the first few months of his life. It's not unusual for a child to stay in a crib until they are three years old so take your time when picking a crib for baby!
Although less complicated than picking a stroller with all its features and gadgets, you still have to determine what is important to you in your selection. How much do you want to spend? (cribs can range anywhere from $100 to over $1000). Do you want wheels? Do you want one or two drop sides? How many mattress height positions do you want? Do you want a crib that converts to a toddler bed and/or daybed?
Go to your local big box stores and baby boutiques. Ask your friends and try out theirs. Test the cribs for sturdiness and ease of operation. Don't wait until the last minute, either because it may very well be that the perfect crib for you will have to be ordered... although it is not the worse thing in the world if your little Sweet Pea has to sleep in a bassinet for a week or two while your crib comes in.
Safety First
This is the singe most important consideration when you buy a baby crib. The current safety standards call for the following: 1) the distance between crib slats can be no more that 2-3/8 inches, 2) the drop sides must be at least 9 inches from the mattress support when lowered and 26 inches when raised and the mattress is at its lowest position and, 3) must fit standard crib mattresses snugly. Subscribe to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website to stay abreast of any recalls that affect baby cribs (or any other baby products for that matter).
Most new cribs comply with both mandatory and voluntary safety standards but older cribs, ones made before 1973 are more likely to have problems. With secondhand cribs, you have to be wary of possible splinters, protruding metal parts, lead paint, and recalled or discontinued features.
Safety Second
After making a safe crib selection, continue your vigilance for potential risks in the nursery. Interestingly, the American Academy of Pediatrics now discourages the use of crib bumpers. Only a number of years ago, bumpers where recommended to keep babies from hurting themselves on the hard sides and/or slipping their hands and feet through the cracks. Now, the AAP considers them a SIDS risk although they still come standard in crib bedding sets. If you are accessorizing your crib, make sure that crib toys and decor are safe with no pieces that may break off and pose a choking hazard. When arranging your nursery, keep the crib away from windows and drapery and drapery cords. As your baby grows, you may have to move the crib even further away (as I did!).
Some forethought when making choices about the crib for baby will go a long way in the months and years ahead. It certainly will help you sleep through the night, even if your Munchkin doesn't!
Ria Sharon, a.k.a., Practical Mommy is co-publisher of My Mommy Manual, a website that connects new and expecting moms with practical and inspired tips. Visit My Mommy Manual for more tips on buying a crib for baby as well as great parenting advice.
