How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is among the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the ideal crib, due to so many styles and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling parts. We also suggest a chic crib with a range of mattress sizes and modern, sleek design.
Safety
When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, make sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in the nursery of your baby. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items could easily fall into or become caught between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be engulfed by the mattress.
The best cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also meet strict federal and state standards for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They're also designed to be tough and convertible, so they'll grow with your child.
It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can have their structural integrity weakened due to aging, humidity and frequent use, posing serious dangers to your baby.
The crib's slats should be spaced no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep children from being wedged between them, and the hardware on the crib must be secured. It's an excellent idea to inspect the mattress support rims and slats for any loose or broken components.
It's best to avoid cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their safety could have been compromised. Don't buy or accept a second-hand crib with an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to safety reasons.
Style
Although all cribs must meet strict safety standards, there are a lot of design differences. Some differences are purely cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can affect how easy it is to clean and use the crib. Certain features such as finials and drop sides are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, such as adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's designed to be an area where babies can sleep. You can also include a crib in your registry to get help from family and friends in the event that you require one.
Cribs come in a variety of sizes and shapes however, the ones we like best combine style and functionality. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is a must for any toxic-free product. It can be transformed into a daybed and toddler with a separate conversion kit.
Some cribs feature more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It is a stylish option that can fit in large nursery. However, it takes more floor space compared to smaller minimalist options. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels which is less than half of the alternatives and isn't as durable as our other choices.
Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised to ease colic and reflux. This is suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with a free matching mattress. It's worth noting, however it's more costly than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's important that the mattress is at the right height. This will ensure that your child can't climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher also helps protect your baby from overheating or suffocating.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise or lower it as your baby grows. A majority of cribs include a conversion kit so you can convert the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your little one outgrows it. It is recommended to select a crib that is tested and certified by a third-party institution. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. mini cot beds guarantee your baby's crib is free of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features simple design and doesn't have confusing parts. It is one of the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than most cribs however one tester reported that her baby was comfortable in it and remained in good shape when she passed it on to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.
Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a contemporary look. It's a bit more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it's durable and comes with a number of features to make up for the price. It is able to be converted into an infant bed or a bassinet, and it has wheels that make it easy to move around. It also has a canopy that can be used to create an environment that resembles a womb for your baby. This adds a stylish touch in any nursery.
The only drawback to this crib is that it doesn't come with an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they grow from infant to toddler.
No Chewable or Dangling Parts
The safest cribs do not have chewable or hanging components. Babies like to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging over or above their crib it could pull off the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If sale cot decide to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they should ensure that the items are securely secured and out of baby's reach.
In addition to the security features of our top cribs for babies, we look at how easy it is to set up. The crib should be easy enough to assemble by yourself, without requiring special tools or a lot of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to assemble an modern crib, and the instructions are generally easy to follow.
A crib will be an important purchase for many new parents, and it's crucial to find one that will last for a long time to come. Select a crib that is able to be transformed from a crib into a toddler's bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet during the beginning, and later transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a large bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a range of colors, making it easy to match your nursery design theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile that allows parents who are small to touch their child and comfort them. It is well-known for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also surpasses standards set by the government like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that's missing is a toddler rail which you can purchase separately. This is a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.