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 pick the best crib, given so many designs and safety concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a crib with a broad range of mattress height settings and a sleek design that is in line with 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. It is important to avoid putting any items in the crib of your child that could cause injury or harm such as blankets, pillows, sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. These items could easily fall into or become stuck between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants 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. They're also third-party tested to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They are also designed to last and convertible, so they'll grow with your child.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's important to select cribs beds that meet today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs may become less sturdy over time due to humidity, age and use. This can create serious risks for your baby.
The crib's slats should be spaced no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep babies from getting trapped between them, and the hardware on the crib 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 pets or children in the past, since their safety may be at risk. Finally, don't purchase or buy a secondhand crib that has the drop side rail which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for security reasons.
Style
While all cribs have to meet strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some differences are purely aesthetic, such as the slats have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others could affect how easy it is to clean and use the crib. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used and others, like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are desirable for many parents.
A crib is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also put the crib on your registry to get help from friends and family in the event you need help.
Cribs are available in a variety of different styles We prefer ones that blend design and function. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and looks sharp. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is an essential feature for any toxic-free baby product and can be converted into a toddler bed and Cribs daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Other cribs have more traditional designs like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that fits well into big nursery spaces, but it occupies more floor space than the 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 other options and it's not as sturdy as our other choices.
Another option that has a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and allow you to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised higher to ease colic and reflux. This is suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes a free matching mattress. It's worth noting, however it's more costly than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's important that the mattress is at the right level. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher also helps protect your baby from suffocating or overheating.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise the mattress or lower it as your child grows. A majority of cribs include a conversion kit that allows you can convert the crib into a toddler bed or daybed after your baby outgrows it. In the end, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organisation 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 the crib where your baby sleeps.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib has a simple design and no confusing parts. It is one of the most highly-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than many other models however one tester said that her child was comfortable in it, and was in good condition when she passed it on to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic option. It features an oval shape that creates a modern appearance. It's a little more expensive than other cribs but its quality and features are worth it. For example, it can be converted into a bassinet or Cot Sets a toddler bed, and it has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more like a womb for your baby and adds an elegant touch to any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is it doesn't have a mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they transition from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging from their crib or above them it could tug against the rails or create a strangulation hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or decorative items, they must ensure that they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.
We also consider how it is easy to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a large amount of time. The majority of parents say that the process of assembling a modern crib can take less than a half hour, and the included instructions are usually clear and easy to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, which is why it's crucial to find one that will last for many years to be. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib to an infant's bed, and later a full-size mattress.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib that can be used to replace a bassinet for those early months, and later convert to a toddler bed daybed, or a full-size bed. It is designed to last and is available in a variety of colors, so you can match it to your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile which makes it easier for parents with small hands to touch their child and comfort their child. It has a good reputation for quality, and comes in white, 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 far exceeds safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last for a long time.