The Best Baby Cradles
Baby cradles are one of the optional pieces of furniture a parent buys for a baby. The classic cradle, which is smaller than a crib but larger than a bassinet, rocks to help the baby sleep and is small enough to provide a baby with a comfortable and secure feel. The best baby cradles vary depending on the parent's budget and the baby's needs, but finding the best for personal needs is possible at any budget.
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Sturdy Construction
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One of the most important key points to consider when buying a cradle is the construction of the cradle . A baby's cradle should have a strong, sturdy foundation. The bolts holding the cradle together should fully tighten to keep the cradle together. Check the model before buying a cradle to see the construction. Give it a little shake and look for any wobbliness, loose parts or areas that seem less than sturdy. The only part of a cradle that should move is the top, which should glide smoothly from side to side.
Mattress Check
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Look at the cradle mattress before buying. The mattress of a cradle should fit snugly and should not have any loose spots. Women's Health Care Topics, a website dedicated to the health of women and their families, states that a mattress on a cradle should not fit more than two fingers between the cradle and the mattress. The website continues by stating a larger gap can result in baby suffocation, so the fit of the mattress is an important consideration.
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Weight Limits
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Cradles often have weight limits for babies. If the baby is heavier than the weight limit, avoid the cradle. The weight limit is the maximum amount of weight for safety purposes. Generally, weight limits will allow a baby to use the cradle for about four to six months, according to the New Parent's Guide website.
Look Over the Latches
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Folding cradles have latches to keep them together and sturdy. These are ideal for taking on the go, but they have potential dangers as well. Parents should always look at the latches before buying. Check the latches on the store models and see if they are secure. Latch and unlatch the store model a few times, checking each time to see if there are any problems. A latch that comes out or is loose will result in injuries if it comes out while the baby is in the cradle.
Heirloom Considerations
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An heirloom cradle is passed down through generations. When planning to use an heirloom, look at the space between the slats or spindles. Measure the space with a ruler. It should have no more than 2 3/8 inches between the slats. If painted, get it checked for lead. Lead is very harmful to a baby or young child if it is ingested. Look over the hardware for rust and check the wood for damage. Heirlooms should only be used if they are safe without rust, damage or lead.
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References
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