How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is a very important piece for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable one can feel overwhelming especially when you consider the many different designs and security concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, with no dangling or chewable parts. We also recommend a sleek crib with a variety of mattress heights and a sleek, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your crib for your child. It is important to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could potentially cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows, sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. They could fall between your baby's crib bars or get stuck in them. They could also be taken up by the mattress.
The most suitable cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also adhere to strict federal, state and local requirements for structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They are also designed to last and convertible, meaning they'll grow with your child.
It is essential to select a crib which meets the current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to humidity, age and prolonged use, which can pose grave dangers to your child.
The slats of your crib should be spaced no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent babies from getting trapped between them, and the hardware on the crib must be secured. It's an excellent idea to inspect the slats and mattress support rims for any loose or broken components.
It's best to avoid cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, since their safety may be at risk. Don't purchase or buy a crib with a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
There are a lot of different designs of cribs, even though they all must be safe to use standards. Some are purely aesthetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length or spaced closer apart and others have a significant impact on the ease of the crib to maintain and use. Certain features such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.
One thing to keep in mind is that the crib should be used solely for sleep for infants and is not a place to store clothes or toys. You can also put the crib on your registry to receive assistance from family and friends in the event that you require one.
Cribs are available in many different styles However, we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD gold-certified, which we think is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be turned into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.
Some cribs sport more traditional designs like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that can be incorporated into large nurseries, but it occupies more floor space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. It only has three levels of mattress, which is half the number offered by competitors. It's not as sturdy as our other picks.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be raised to a higher position to help reduce colic and reflux, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's worth noting, however it's more costly than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the correct height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be fatal or dangerous. A mattress that is higher can also help keep your child from overheating or becoming suffocated.
recommended you read will include slats that can be adjusted or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. The majority of cribs include a conversion kit that allows you can convert the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed when your child is no longer using it. It is recommended for you to choose the crib that is tested and certified by a third-party institution. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that your baby's crib is free of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's easy to assemble and has a simple layout that doesn't contain any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than most cribs however, one user reported that her baby was comfortable in it and remained in good condition when she passed it on to a friend after her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent alternative. It has an oval shape, which gives it a contemporary look. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however its durability and features are worth it. It can be easily converted into a bassinet or toddler bed and has wheels to make it easy to move. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more like a womb for your baby and adds an elegant touch to any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is that it doesn't come with a mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they grow from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable components.
The safest cribs have no chewable or dangling components. If something is hung above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or cause strangulation. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decorate their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should ensure that they secure the items and aren't in the reach of Baby.
We also look at how it is easy to put together our top cribs for infants. The ideal crib will be easy enough to be able to make it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or a long time to assemble. The majority of parents say that the process of assembling a modern crib can take less than an hour, and the included instructions are usually simple and easy to follow.
It's important that you choose the right crib that will last for many years. For long-lasting use, choose an adjustable crib that will be used from the time of infancy all the way to the toddler bed, and then a full-size bed.
Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, that can be used to replace an infant bassinet during the first months, and later convert to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and is available in a variety of colors that make it easy to match with your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile, so parents with small feet can touch their child to calm them. It has a good reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of toxins like lead and phthalates. cheap cots surpasses all government safety standards, including 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 seeking a top-quality affordable crib that will last.