How To Beat Your Boss On Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is among the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. But picking out a good crib can be overwhelming, especially with so many different styles and security concerns.

Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards and has no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib with a range of mattress sizes and modern, sleek design.

Safety

When assembling and positioning your baby's crib, be sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is crucial to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your child which could cause injury or harm, including pillows, blankets and sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Also, your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. They could easily fall into or get stuck 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 adhere to strict federal and state regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). And they are designed to be durable and adaptable, so they can grow with your child.

No matter if you're buying new or used, it's essential to select a crib that is in line with the current stringent safety standards. Secondhand cribs may lose their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose serious risks to your infant.

The crib's slats should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secure. It's an excellent idea to check the slats and the rims of the mattress support for any loose or broken parts.

It's best to avoid cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their security could be at risk. Do not purchase or purchase cribs with a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.

Style

There are many variations in the design of cribs, despite the fact that they all must be safe to use standards. Some are purely aesthetic, such as if the slats are identical in length or are spaced closer apart or not, while others have a real impact on the ease of the crib sets to use and maintain. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should not be used as well. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels/casters desirable for many parents.

A crib is not meant to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place where babies can sleep. It's also an excellent idea to include the crib on your registry so that your family and friends can assist you in getting one when the time comes.

Cribs come in many different styles, but we prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified which we believe is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be turned to a daybed or toddler by converting it with a separate kit.

Some cribs feature more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a chic option that can fit in large nursery. However, it occupies more floor top Rated cots and tots (Maps.Google.no) space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels, which is less than half of the alternatives, and it's not as sturdy as some of our other picks.

Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This is suitable for babies between 6 months and the birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. 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 important that the mattress on your baby's crib is the right height. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can safeguard your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.

A quality crib should have adjustable slats or railings to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit that allows you can transform the crib into the toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer using it. It is recommended to select the crib that has been 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 the crib of your baby is free of chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features an easy design and has no complicated parts. It is one of the top cribs. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than most cribs however one tester said that her child slept well in it and was still in good shape when she passed it on to a relative after the birth of her second child.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent alternative. It features an oval shape that gives it a contemporary look. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however it is durable and has numerous features that make up the cost. It can, for instance, be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed. It also is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room cots to tots room. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a like a womb for your baby and adds an elegant touch to any nursery.

The only drawback to this crib is it doesn't have a mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that will expand with your child from infant to toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Components

The safest cribs are those that are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grasp objects, and if something is hanging from or above their crib, it could tug against the rails or create an entanglement hazard. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they should make sure that the items are securely fastened and out of baby's reach.

We also consider how easy it is to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without the need for special tools or spending a lot of time. Many parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together a modern crib, and the instructions are generally easy to follow.

It is essential to select a crib that lasts for many years. For long-lasting use, choose an adjustable crib that will work from infancy until the toddler bed, and then an adult-sized bed.

Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace an infant bassinet during the first months, and later convert to a toddler bed daybed, or a full-size cot bed sales. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a range of colors that make it easy to match with your nursery's theme.

Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent alternative. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and soothe their child. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and is available in cherry, white and espresso colors as well as natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of toxins like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a great option for those looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last.