How Long Can a Baby Sleep in a Mini Crib?
Mini cribs are a great option for newborns and toddlers as they provide a comfortable and secure sleeping environment without taking up too much space. But when it comes to how long a baby can safely sleep in a mini crib, the answer isn’t very straightforward.
Safety and Comfort Considerations
When choosing a crib for your baby, safety and comfort should always be your top priorities. Mini cribs typically have a more compact mattress, so there should be no more than two fingers worth of space between the mattress and the sides of the bed to prevent your baby from getting stuck.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also recommends babies and toddlers sleep on a flat surface without any pillows, blankets, or any other materials. The mini crib should also meet the appropriate safety regulations put in place by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Juvenile Products Manufacturer Association (JPMA).
Age Limitations
The size of a mini crib will limit the age of your baby as to how long they can sleep in it. The AAP recommends babies sleep in the same room as their parents until they’re at least six months old and while they should always be safe, they don’t recommend any particular type of bed.
The key is to get a mini crib that hat is the appropriate size for your baby’s age and size. Once your baby is 18 months old, it is time for you to look for a more appropriate sized crib for them.
General Sleep Time Guidelines
The amount of sleep babies need changes as they age. Here is a general recommendation from the AAP:
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- 0-3 months: 14 to 17 hours per day.
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- 4-11 months: 12 to 16 hours per day.
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- 12-17 months: 11 to 14 hours per day.
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- 18-24 months: 10 to 13 hours per day.
At the end of the day, you are the best judge of when your baby is ready to move out of the mini crib. Have safety and comfort in mind, and ensure your baby is sleeping in a space that is appropriately sized for them.