How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an extremely crucial piece for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the right crib, with so many designs and safety concerns.
Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib with a variety of mattress sizes and an elegant, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your crib for your child. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm to the nursery of your baby. This includes blankets, pillows, and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls, and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches are not allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items could easily fall into or get trapped between your baby and the crib bars or they could be engulfed by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal laws, state and local standards for structural safety. They're also third-party tested to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They are also designed to be durable and reversible, which means they'll grow with your child.
It is essential to select a crib which meets the current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. cot sets can lose their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and heavy use, posing grave dangers to your child.
The slats of your crib should not be longer than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secure. Check the slats and mattress support rims and hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It's best to avoid cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their safety could be at risk. Don't buy or purchase an older crib that has an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to security reasons.
Style
There are many design differences between cribs, despite the fact that all must be safe to use standards. Some are just aesthetic, such as the slats have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others could affect how easy it is to clean and use the crib. Certain features, like finials and drop sides are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by a lot of parents.
One thing to be aware of is that a crib should be used exclusively for sleeping infants, so it's not a place to store toys or clothes. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your list to ensure that family and friends can pitch in to help you purchase one when the time arrives.
Cribs are available in a variety of sizes and shapes However, the ones we like best are those that combine style and function. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks great. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is essential for any toxic-free baby product, and it can convert into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a classy crib that can be incorporated into large nursery spaces, however it takes up more floor space than the smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some might find distracting. It has only three mattress levels, which is half the number offered by competitors. It's not as durable as our other choices.
Another option that has contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and allow you to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can be raised to alleviate colic and reflux. This is suitable for babies aged 6 months and the birth. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress. It's important to remember that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is crucial that the mattress on your baby's crib is the right height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be risky or even fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your baby from suffocation or overheating.
A quality crib should include slats that can be adjusted or railings to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. A majority of cribs include a conversion kit that allows you can turn the crib into a toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. Finally, it's best to choose a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third party organization to ensure safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to ensure there aren't any chemicals or finishes present in the crib where your baby sleeps.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's easy to put together, with a straightforward layout that doesn't contain any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are shorter than other models. However, one parent test subject said that their baby slept well and that the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a relative for her second child.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a modern appearance. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its durability and features make up for it. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed. It also is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a more child-like space for your baby. It also adds a stylish touch to any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with mattresses. You'll have to purchase a mattress separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can grow with your child from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or cause strangulation. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other objects, they should make sure they secure the items and aren't within reach of Baby.
In addition to the security features of our best cribs for babies, we take into consideration how easy it is to set up. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough to make it yourself, and doesn't require any special tools or long assembly time. Most parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour and the included instructions are usually simple and easy to follow.
It is essential to select a crib that lasts for many years. For longevity, opt for a convertible crib that will be used from the time of infancy until an adult bed and then a larger bed.
Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can replace a bassinet for those early months, and later convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. It's made for long-term use and is available in a variety of colors, making it easy to match your nursery design theme.
best rated cribs is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile so that parents with small feet can reach their child and soothe them. It has a good reputation for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also far exceeds safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a great option for those looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.