How to Choose the best crib newborn infant cribs (click for more info)
The crib is an extremely essential piece of furniture for your baby's nursery. It can be difficult to choose the ideal crib, due cots to tots so many styles and safety concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We recommend a crib with a broad choice of mattress heights and a modern design that matches your style.
Safety
When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, make 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 to your baby's nursery. This includes pillows, blankets and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals larger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items can easily get caught between the crib bars or become stuck in them. They may also get taken up by the mattress.
The best cots uk cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also adhere to strict federal laws, state and local standards for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They are also designed to last and reversible, which means they'll grow with your child.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's crucial to select cribs that meet today's rigorous safety standards. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to age, humidity and heavy use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The slats on your crib should not exceed 3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secure. Check the slats, mattress support rims and hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It is also advisable to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their safety might be 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 for safety reasons.
Style
Although all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some differences are purely cosmetic, like whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can impact the ease to use and clean the crib. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should not be used, while others--like adjustable mattress height and wheels/casters highly sought-after by many parents.
A crib is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be an area where babies can sleep. You can also include a crib in your registry to get help from friends and family in the event you need help.
Cribs are available in many different styles However, we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is an essential feature for any toxic-free baby product and it's able to convert into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs sport an older-style look, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It is a stylish option that can fit in large nursery. However, it takes up more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels which is less than half of the competition, and it's not as sturdy as some of our other choices.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern aesthetic. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to observe baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised to ease colic and reflux. This is suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than other top picks and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is essential that the crib mattress of your baby is at the correct height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your child from overheating or suffocation.
A good crib will have adjustable slats or railings to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A conversion kit is included with the majority of cribs to allow you to convert it into a daybed or toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. Finally, it's a good idea to choose 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 aren't any chemicals or finishes in the baby's sleeping space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's easy to put together and has a simple design that doesn't have any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than those of other cribs. However, one parent tester said that her child was sleeping well and the crib was in good shape when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary look. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however it's sturdy and comes with numerous features to make up for the price. It can be easily converted into an infant bed or a bassinet and has wheels that make it easy to move. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It also adds an elegant look 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 safe, comfortable crib that will expand with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The safest cribs have no chewable or dangling parts. Babies love to grab things, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them, it could pull on the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other decorative items, they must ensure that the items are secured tightly and aren't within reach of Baby.
In addition to the security features of our top cribs for infants, we also take into consideration how easy it is to assemble. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without requiring special tools or spending a large amount of time. Many parents report that it takes less than one hour to assemble the modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.
It is essential to select a crib that lasts for many years. For long-lasting use, choose a convertible crib that will work from infancy all the way up to a toddler bed and finally an adult-sized bed.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib that can be used to replace an infant bassinet during the first months, and later convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a range of colors that make it easy to match with your nursery's theme.
Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a low profile which makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and soothe them. It is renowned for quality and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental protection, 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 the safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that's missing is a toddler rail which you can buy separately. This is an excellent option for those looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last.