How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the best crib for newborn crib, given numerous styles and safety concerns.
Find a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and includes no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a crib with a wide range of mattress height settings and a sleek design that matches your style.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, be sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any objects that could cause injury or harm in the nursery of your baby. This includes pillows, blankets and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. They could get caught between the crib bars or be stuck in them. They may also be taken in by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. 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 certificates!). They're also designed to be tough and convertible, so they'll grow with your child.
It's important that you choose cribs that meet current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may lose their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and frequent use, posing serious dangers to your baby.
The crib's slats should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secure. Check the slats and mattress support rims, and hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, as their security could be at risk. Also, don't purchase or buy an older crib that has an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for security reasons.
Style
While all cribs have to adhere to strict safety standards, there are a lot of design differences. Some are just aesthetic, such as if the slats are all the same length or placed closer than others or not, while others have a real impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should not be used, while others--like adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are highly sought-after by many parents.
One thing to keep in mind is that a crib is meant only for infant sleep, so it's not a place to store toys or clothes. It's also a good idea to put a crib on your registry so that your family and friends can pitch in to help you get one when the time comes.
Cribs are available in many different styles However, we prefer those that combine style with functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider a must-have for any product that is free of toxics and it's able to convert into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a classy crib that is a good fit for big nursery spaces, but it takes up more floor space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half of the alternatives, and mini Cotbed it's not as durable as our other choices.
Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can also be raised to a higher height to help reduce colic and reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It's GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to note, however, that it's more expensive than our other top choices 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 the correct level. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your child from overheating or suffocation.
A quality crib should include slats that can be adjusted or railings that let you raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A majority of cribs include a conversion kit that allows you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed when your child is no longer using it. In the end, it's recommended cribs to select a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organisation for safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to ensure there aren't any chemicals or finishes in your baby's sleep space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's easy to assemble and has a simple design that doesn't have any complicated pieces or parts. The crib's sides are shorter than the other models. However, one parent tester said that her child slept well and the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a relative for her second child.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern appearance. It's a bit more costly than most cribs, but it's durable and comes with numerous features that make up the price. For instance, it can be converted into a bassinet or a toddler bed, and it is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more womb-like environment for your baby. It also adds an elegant touch to any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is it doesn't have an additional mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can expand with your child from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The safest cribs have no chewable or hanging components. Babies love to grab objects, and if something is hanging over or above their crib, it could pull on the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other items, they must ensure that the items are securely secured and aren't in the reach of Baby.
In addition to the security features of our best cots uk cribs for infants, we also look at how easy it is to put together. The ideal crib will be simple enough that you can do it yourself and doesn't require special tools or extensive assembly time. Most parents report that assembling a modern crib takes 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 a long time to be. Pick a crib that can be converted from a crib into an infant's bed, and later a full-size mattress.
Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace a bassinet for those early months, and later convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. It is designed to last and is available in a variety of colors so that you can match it with your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile to ensure that parents with small feet can reach their child to comfort them. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white, espresso, and natural pine 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 harmful substances such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds government standards such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing lacking is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is an excellent option for those who are seeking a top-quality, affordable crib that will last.