How to Choose the best infant cribs (linked resource site)
The crib is an extremely important piece for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the right crib, with so many styles and safety concerns.
Choose a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and includes no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a sleek crib with a variety of mattress sizes and modern, sleek design.
Safety
When assembling and setting up your baby's crib make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any objects that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery. This includes blankets, pillows, and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches are not allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could get caught between the crib bars or be stuck within them. They may also be taken in by the mattress.
The best cribs for babies are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also meet strict federal and state regulations for structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or tots and cots CPSIA certifications!). They're also designed to be tough and convertible, so they can grow along with your child.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's crucial to select a crib that meets today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs may become less sturdy over time due to the effects of humidity, age and heavy use. This could create serious risks for your baby.
The crib's slats should not be more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent children from being wedged between them and the hardware that is on the crib must be secured. 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 children or pets in the past, since their security could be at risk. Do not purchase or purchase cribs with drop-side rails. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
There are a lot of design differences between cribs, despite the fact that all must meet safety standards. Some are just aesthetic, such as if the slats are of identical in length or are spaced closer than others, while others have a real impact on the ease of the crib to use and maintain. Some features, like finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should not be used, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are popular with parents.
One thing to keep in mind is that a crib is meant solely for sleep for infants, so it's not an area to store toys or clothes. It's also an excellent idea to include a crib on your registry so that friends and family can lend a hand to help you get one when the time arrives.
Cribs are available in many different styles We prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is essential for any baby product that is non-toxic and can be converted into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs sport an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that can be incorporated into large nurseries, but it occupies more space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some find distracting. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half of the alternatives and it's not as durable as our other picks.
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 ease colic and reflux which makes it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It is also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a matching mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top options and requires a separate conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is crucial that your baby's crib mattress is of the correct height. This ensures that your child doesn't fall out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your baby from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. A conversion kit comes in the majority of cribs, so that you can convert it into a toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer in the crib. It is also a good idea for you to choose a crib that is tested and certified by a third-party organization. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to ensure there aren't any chemicals or finishes in the baby's sleeping space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features simple design and doesn't have confusing parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than most cribs, but one parent tester said that her child did well sleeping in it, and was in good condition when she passed it on to a friend following the birth of her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It features an oval shape which gives it a modern look. It's a bit more costly than the majority of cribs, but it's sturdy and comes with numerous options to make up the price. It can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or bassinet, and it has wheels to make it easy to move around. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It's also a stylish touch to any nursery.
This crib does not come with a mattress. You'll need to purchase a mattress separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The safest cribs are those that have no dangling or chewable components. If something is hung above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or create a strangulation risk. Babies are extremely grabbing. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they should ensure that the items are securely secured and are not within Baby's reach.
In addition to the safety features of our best infant cribs, we also consider how simple it is to assemble. Ideally, the crib should be easy enough to be able to build it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or extensive assembly time. Many parents report that it takes less than an hour to assemble the modern crib, and the instructions are generally easy to follow.
It is essential to select a crib that lasts for many years. 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 an adult-sized bed.
Our top pick for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace an infant cot bed bassinet during the first months, and then be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It is designed to last and is available in many colors so you can match it to your nursery's design theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib has a low profile that makes it easier for parents who are small cot beds to reach their child and soothe their child. It also has a good reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors as well as natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the standards of government agencies such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that's missing is a toddler rail which you can buy separately. This is a great choice for those who want an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.