One of the questions new moms ask is when to lower their baby’s crib mattress. This is only normal as your baby’s safety is very important. You have to think of making them comfortable but not at the expense of risking their safety while in the crib. You have to learn how to keep your baby safe and ensure that you are using the right crib mattress height. There are regulations for this and we will be looking closely at different crib settings so you will know what is most suitable for your child,
Many parents are not educated on this matter so you’re definitely not alone. Some factors will help you determine when it’s the right time to lower your baby’s crib mattress. Keep reading this guide as we’re here to shed some light on this topic and provide you with valuable tips on how to tackle it.
What Are The Settings On The Crib?
You will notice that there are different height settings on your baby’s crib. However, there are standard ones that have to be on every crib, and you should familiarize yourself with how they work and especially how they keep your little one safe.
The most common ones are the lowest, middle, and highest settings. The low settings are needed when your baby can stand without aid or freely move around. If they can move around on their own, there is a strong likelihood of your baby potentially falling over the rails in no time. So the lowest setting is to protect them as you never know when they will make a go for it. Babies are rarely afraid to take risks, so its better if you are prepared.
The mid settings are suitable for babies who can’t stand up yet but can still move around a little. The transition into the middle will depend on your baby’s growth. The crib settings are usually at the highest for newborns. Since they are only sleeping most of the time and can barely move around, you can confidently put the crib on the highest when transitioning your baby from the bassinet to a crib.
How Do You Know When It’s Time To Lower The Crib Mattress?
Now that you know the basic settings of your baby’s crib, we will be looking at how you can make an informed decision on how and when to adjust your baby’s crib. It is crucial that you know when to lower the crib to prevent possible injuries. Sadly, many children fall out of their cribs and end up in the emergency room. They are tall enough to stand up and climb over the rails, exposing them to the risk of getting seriously hurt.
Medical experts advise parents to be one step ahead by ensuring the baby’s crib is lowered even before the recommended time. The crib can be lowered when the baby is getting to 6 months, but you should make sure it is done before they reach 9 months.
It is possible that your child might be able to sit up before reaching 6 months without any assistance. Apart from the ability of the child to sit or stand up without support, there are other instances that will determine whether it is time to lower the crib.
If Your Baby is Up To 36 inches Tall
It is advised that parents lower the crib when their baby is up to 36 inches tall. This recommendation was proposed by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
When Your Baby is Making an Effort to Stand Up
If you see that there is a chance your baby will likely tip themselves over the rails, it is about time you start lowering the crib mattress.
You can lower the crib gradually as long as you meet the safety standards. Some parents prefer to lower the crib this way until it is necessary to put it at the lowest setting. However, If your baby is growing at a very fast pace, then you can adjust the crib to the lowest setting immediately.
How to Lower the Crib Mattress
Lowering the crib mattress usually varies depending on the type you buy. It is better to refer to the manual to learn how it works with your particular crib. However, there are some general tips that can help you to know how to adjust the mattress to the correct height.
Choose The Mattress Settings For The Crib
You will need to take off the bedding and mattress protectors. This way, you can conveniently change the crib setting. If there are any crib bumpers, you should take them off, too because they can cause suffocation. One thing you should avoid using in your baby’s crib is quilts and blankets because they are not considered safe and can cause strangulation.
Set the Mattress Level Adjustments
Now that you have the bedding off and your instruction manual at hand, you can adjust the crib to the desired level. The adjustments you make should make the crib lower. It should be done equally at both the foot and head of the crib so it is level. The instruction manual should be able to give you the right directions on how to keep the crib balanced.
Make Your Baby’s Bed
After lowering the crib mattress, you can put the mattress protector and sheets back on. Your little one can now be safely tucked into their bed without any need to worry about their safety.
Conclusion
Lowering your baby’s crib mattress is a crucial step every parent must take as their little one grows. The faster your baby grows, the more reasons you have to do it quicker. It is also important to note that the crib rails should be at least 26 inches in height according to the recommendation made by the American Academy of Pediatrics. This is to prevent your baby from easily falling over and potentially sustaining trauma and injuries.
As well, keep in mind that your baby’s crib should be adjusted when they reach 6 months and if they can stand on their own. You can protect your little one by monitoring their growth and development and ensuring that required adjustments are readily made when necessary. Now that you know everything about lowering your baby’s crib mattress, it shouldn’t be difficult to stay on top of it!