How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the best crib, given numerous styles and safety concerns.
Look for cribs that meet the most stringent safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a chic crib with a range of mattress heights as well as an elegant, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your child's crib. It is important to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your child which could cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items could easily fall into or become stuck between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be engulfed by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal laws, local and state standards for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They're also designed to be durable and adaptable, so they can grow with your child.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's important to choose cribs that meet today's strict safety standards. Secondhand cribs can be damaged in their structural integrity due to humidity, age 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 also a good idea to examine the slats and the rims of the mattress support for broken or loose components.
It's also recommended to avoid using cribs that have been used by children or pets, as their security might have been compromised. Do not purchase or purchase cribs with drop-side rails. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
While all cribs have to comply with strict safety standards, you'll find a lot of design differences. Some of the differences are cosmetic, such as the slats have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can make it difficult to clean and use the crib. Some features like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib isn't designed to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place for babies to sleep. You can also put a crib in your registry to get assistance from family and friends when you need one.
Cribs come in all shapes and sizes, but the ones we prefer are those that combine style and function. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is a must-have for any baby product that is non-toxic and it's able to convert into a toddler cheap cot bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Other cribs have a more traditional look, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a stylish choice that can be incorporated into larger nurseries. However, it takes more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. It only has three mattress levels, which is half the number offered by competitors. It's also not as durable as our other choices.
Another option that has contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's all-round mesh and hidden hardware enhance airflow and Dr. Casares believes that this is an attribute that new parents appreciate. It can also be elevated to a higher level to ease colic and reflux, making it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top options, and it requires a separate conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it is important that the mattress is the right height. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit so you can transform the crib into the toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer using it. It's also recommended to select a crib that has been tested and approved by a third party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee your baby's crib is free of finishes or chemicals.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the most highly-rated cribs on the market, and it's simple to put together, with a straightforward design that doesn't include any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than other cribs however one tester reported that her baby did well sleeping in it and was still in good condition when she passed it on to a friend following the birth of her second child was born.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a modern style. It's a bit more costly than most cribs, but it's durable and comes with many features that make up the cost. It is able to be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed and comes with wheels that make it easy to move around. It has a canopy which can be used to create an environment more akin to a womb your baby. This is a chic touch in any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with mattress. You'll have to buy one separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will expand with your child as they transition 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 things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging over or above their crib it could pull against the rails or create a strangulation hazard. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they should ensure that the items are securely secured and are out of Baby's reach.
In addition to the safety features of our best infant cot bed cribs, we also consider how simple it is to set up. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without the need for special tools or a long amount of time. Most parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than a half hour, and the included instructions are usually simple and easy to follow.
It is crucial to choose a crib that will last many years. Choose a crib that can be converted from a crib to an adult bed, and then a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet in the beginning, and later converted into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a large bed. It is designed to last and comes in a variety of colors so that you can match it with the theme of your nursery's decor.
Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile to ensure that petite parents can reach their child and calm them. It also has a good reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry, espresso, and natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the standards of government agencies like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for Best cot newborn an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.