How to Choose a Safe Baby Crib for Your Baby.
November 15, 2008 by Staff Writer Infant Memories
Filed under Baby Furniture and Nursery
A baby crib is one of the most important pieces of furniture that you will select for your baby. You are excited over the idea of decorating the nursery. But while you are picking out colors and themes for that special room, take care to choose a baby crib that is safe for your baby. There are many types of baby cribs available and it is critical that you learn how to choose the right one. Keep reading as this article will reveal to you the safety features that you should keep in mind when shopping for a baby crib.
No matter what type of crib you choose, whether it be a round baby crib, a square baby crib or a traditional baby crib, there are a few safety features that should be present before you even think about buying. Decorating your nursery in the latest style may be important to you, but it should not be more important than the safety of your baby. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, new crib regulations have been introduced in 1996. So to be on the safe side, it is advisable that you only purchase a crib made after 1999. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission website is a great place to find information on any recalls of any baby product and to stay up to date on the required safety features of all baby products. Bookmark the site and refer to it often. Now let’s move on and give you the basic safety features you should look for before you purchase a baby crib.
It is important that the baby crib you choose has the ability to adjust the mattress height. As your child grows, you will have to lower the mattress to keep your little one from injury as he tries to climb out of the crib.
The release mechanism is an important safety feature. There are three types, the metal rod, the trigger release and the knee release. These release mechanisms are made in such a way that only the parent should be able to operate them from outside the crib. These are required by law and will keep your child from lowering the side rail himself and falling out or getting an arm, leg or possibly his head trapped. Make sure the crib you choose has a workable release mechanism.
Rolling casters make it easy to move the crib about the room or from room to room. It also makes it easier to change the baby crib bedding. But keep in mind that the casters should have a locking mechanism to keep your toddler from rolling the crib about the room.
A teething rail is a plastic covering over the rails that will prevent your little one from chewing on the wooden rails. If your crib does not have plastic rail covering, you can purchase them separately and just snap them over your wooden rails.
The above features are all things you should look for when purchasing a baby crib. Almost all baby cribs manufactured after 1999 should have these safety features in place. The crib is where your baby will spend the first few years of his life. It is your duty as a parent to keep him safe and secure. Study these safety guidelines and do some research on the safest cribs that are available. Once you are armed with the right knowledge, go shopping for the perfect baby crib!








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