The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an extremely crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. But picking out a good crib can be overwhelming, especially with so many different styles and security concerns.
Find cribs that meet the most stringent safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a crib with a wide selection of mattress heights and a sleek design that complements your style.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is essential to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items can easily get caught between the crib bars or get stuck within them. They may also be taken up by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or cheap baby Cots CPSIA certifications!). And they are designed to last and are flexible, allowing them to expand with your child.
No matter if you're buying new or used, it's essential to select a crib that is in line with today's rigorous safety standards. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to humidity, age and heavy use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The crib's slats should be no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent infants from getting wedged between them and the hardware on the crib should be secure. It's an excellent idea to check the slats and mattress support rims for any loose or broken parts.
It is best crib newborn to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, since their safety could be at risk. Don't buy or accept the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
While all cribs have to meet strict safety standards, you'll find a lot of design differences. Some differences are purely aesthetic, such as the slats have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others can impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Certain features, like drop sides and finials are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.
A crib is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place for babies to sleep. You can also include a crib on your registry to receive help from family and friends in the event you need help.
Cribs are available in a variety of different styles, but we prefer ones that blend style with functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is essential for any product that is free of toxics. It can be transformed into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.
Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a grand crib that is a good fit for large nursery spaces, however it takes up more space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Moreover, it only has three levels of mattress height, which is less than half the other options and it's not as sturdy as some of our other picks.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern aesthetic. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and allow you to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised to alleviate colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes a free matching mattress. It's worth noting, though, that it's more expensive than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is essential that your baby's crib mattress is of the correct height. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which could be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your baby from overheating or suffocation.
A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit comes with most good cribs to allow you to convert it into a toddler bed or daybed after your child has outgrown the crib. It's recommended for you to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third-party institution. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to ensure that there aren't any chemicals or finishes in the baby's sleeping space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has an easy design and has no complicated parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than other cribs however one tester stated that her baby was comfortable in it and remained in good condition when she gave it to a friend after her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It features an oval shape that creates a modern appearance. It's a little more expensive than other cribs but its quality and features are worth it. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed. It also comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a like a womb for your baby and adds an elegant look to any nursery.
This crib is not equipped with a mattress. You'll have to purchase one separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that will grow with your child from newborn to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to be pulled or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If parents decide to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they should make sure that the items are securely secured and are not within Baby's reach.
In addition to the security features of our best cot bed infant cribs, we also consider how simple it is to assemble. The crib should be easy enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or a lot of time. Most parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than a half hour, and the instructions included are usually simple and 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 many years to be. For long-lasting use, choose a convertible crib that can work from infancy until the toddler bed, and then a larger bed.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can replace an infant bassinet during the first months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a range of colors, making it easy to match with your nursery's theme.
Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that allows parents with small hands to touch their child and comfort 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 government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last.