We all deserve a good night's sleep, including babies. But choosing a crib for him can be a real challenge. Why? Maybe because you can't lie on it and see how comfortable it is. And the fact that there are so many models available to choose from doesn't make it any easier.
And since the best decision is made after research, let's find out how to choose the bed for your baby.
Why is it so important to choose a baby crib?
The baby bed encourages and promotes their independent sleep. You may be one of those parents who want to feel their little one as close as possible while they sleep, but most doctors recommend independent sleeping. The little ones have to develop this habit as quickly as possible, to sleep alone, and the crib is only good.
Because it is a piece of furniture designed especially for children , if you choose a good bed, it means you choose a safe bed. The baby crib is built according to strict safety standards and regulations established by the World Health Organization. Thus, you are worry-free when you put your baby in the crib.
Know that babies who sleep in a separate bed from their parents are much less likely to suffer from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, abbreviated as SIDS, compared to those who sleep with their parents in the same bed.
Look for the bed to meet safety standards.
Avoid buying a crib that does not have safety certifications. In addition to certifications, consult the safety features. Here's what they are:
It must comply with the European Standard EN 716-1:2008. It must be written in the product manual.
The space between the bars should be a maximum of 6 cm. The design of the bed must give the child safety. He should not easily fall out of the crib or catch his head between the bars. Look how you can check, the milk bottle must not pass between these bars.
The base of the bed must be a truss. And the mattress should fit perfectly, leaving no space between the edge of the bed and the mattress.
In its structure it must not have any cut shape because it will be a danger for your child. It can hit any part of your body and hit easily.
If you decide to buy a crib, buy a new one.
You think you'll probably save a few pennies by buying a second-hand crib, but you have to remember that safety regulations are updated every few years, so there's a chance it might not comply with the new safety regulations.
If a cot has been used, it means that it is worn, that is, it has damaged or even missing parts that you don't notice, but they represent a danger for your baby's safety.
Choose the right mattress
For the crib to be complete, you have to choose the last piece, but among the most important: the mattress. If you are the first baby, you will be tempted to choose the fluffiest, softest and most comfortable mattress, but this is very wrong. Here's why:
If you place the newborn on a soft mattress, his spine will be affected. There will be a stress on the spine and pain or ailments may occur, just because of the type of mattress he is sleeping on.
The best option is a firm mattress that fits perfectly into the crib frame. Remember, no spaces. Choose the right size for the bed frame.
Make sure the bedding you buy for the crib is the size of the mattress. If it is smaller, parts of the mattress will remain uncovered. On the other hand, if it is too big, the sheet will no longer sit smoothly and the baby can pull it.
It is not recommended to wrap a baby in a blanket if you want to let him sleep unattended. Instead, you can use sleeping bags, specially designed for the little ones. Pay attention to its thickness because this way you will be able to maintain the right temperature for your child for a restful and safe sleep.
Check the materials from which the crib is made.
Another important aspect when you want to buy a baby crib is the safety of the materials. Yes, you won't be using it for a long time, about 2 years, but what's more important, your baby's safety or saving a few bucks?
You can choose a cheaper option only if it complies with safety regulations and the materials are of quality.
There are cribs that are made of plastic, but this can break and thus become a risk for the safety of the little one.
Also here you have to consider the paint used for the crib. Choose only ecological, non-toxic paints.
When he gets his first teeth, the crib frame will be his favorite toy, so it's important that the materials and paint are quality.
Co-sleeper
This type of crib is designed to be attached to your bed. It has a removable side and is height adjustable. It facilitates the feeding process, especially during the night, because you don't have to get out of bed.
The part that detaches should be left down only when you are next to the baby and feed him, caress him. To be able to sleep unsupervised it must be raised.
The biggest advantage of this crib is that you will have your baby close to you during the night, but it also comes with the risks of sharing the same bed.
Babynest or nest for newborns.
You deserve to sleep soundly, and so does your baby. The first place the newborn knows is the cozy crib, so it must also be the first safe place.
