The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is a very crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. But picking out a good crib can be overwhelming especially when you consider the many different designs and safety concerns.

Choose a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a sleek crib with a range of mattress heights as well as a sleek, modern design.

Safety

Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your child's crib. It is important to avoid putting any items in the crib of your child that could cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets and sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. They could easily fall into or be stuck between your baby and the crib bars, or be swallowed by the mattress.

The best cribs for babies are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also meet strict federal laws, local and state requirements for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They're also designed to last and are convertible so they can adapt to your child's needs.

No matter if you're buying new or used, it's crucial to select cribs that meet today's rigorous safety standards. Used cribs can be weakened in the course of time due to the effects of humidity, age and frequent use. This can cause serious dangers to your Baby Cot.

The slats of your crib should not exceed 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware must be secured. Examine the slats, infant cot bed (more information) mattress support rims, and hardware for any damaged or loose components.

It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their safety might have been compromised. Don't buy or accept the crib that has drop-side rails. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.

Style

There are a lot of different designs of cribs, despite the fact that all have to meet safety standards. Some differences are purely cosmetic, like whether the slats are all the same length, or are spaced closer than others, and some can affect how easy it is to clean and use the crib. Certain features such as drop sides and finials are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are coveted by many parents.

One thing to keep in mind is that a crib should be used exclusively for sleeping infants and is not a place to store toys or clothing. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your registry so that your family and friends can lend a hand to assist you in getting one when the time arrives.

Cribs are available in a variety of different styles However, we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks stunning. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is essential for any toxic-free product. It can be turned into a daybed and toddler by converting it with a separate kit.

Other cribs have more traditional designs like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It is a stylish option that can fit in large nurseries. However, it takes more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half of the competition and isn't as sturdy as some of our other picks.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a modern design. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies who are 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, however it's more expensive 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 ensures that your child isn't able to climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher also helps keep your child from overheating or suffocating.

A quality crib will have slats or railings that are adjustable to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A conversion kit comes in the majority of cribs, so that you can convert it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. It's also a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and approved by a third party organization to ensure safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification that means it has been tested to ensure there are minimal chemical or other finishes in your baby's sleep space.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features a simple design and no confusing parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than many other models however, one user stated that her baby slept well in it and remained in good condition when she passed it on to a friend after her second child was born.

Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary appearance. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs but its quality and features are worth it. It can, for instance, be transformed into a bassinet, or toddler bed and is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy cots to tots move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a space more like a womb for your baby. This adds a stylish touch in any nursery.

The only downside to this crib is that it doesn't come with a mattress, which you'll have 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 Chewable or Dangling Parts

The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or hanging components. Babies like to grab objects, and if something is hanging over or above their crib, it could pull against the rails or create a strangulation hazard. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other decorative items, they must ensure that they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.

We also examine how easy it is to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble yourself, without the need for special tools or a large amount of time. Most parents report that the process of assembling a modern crib can take less than an hour and the included instructions are generally clear and easy to follow.

A crib will be an important purchase for many new parents, and it is essential to choose one that will last for years to be. To ensure longevity, you should choose an adjustable crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life until an adult bed and then a full-size bed.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the beginning, and later transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed or a larger bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a variety of colors, making it easy to match your nursery's theme.

Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib sets. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and calm them. It has a good reputation for quality and comes in white, top Rated cots cherry and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety, and it's made from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins like lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds the government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a good option for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last.