How to Choose the best infant cribs (please click the next post)
The crib is an extremely important piece for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good one can feel overwhelming particularly with the number of different styles and safety concerns.
Choose a crib that adheres to the most stringent safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a sleek crib with a variety of mattress heights as well as an elegant, modern design.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, make sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to not place any items in the crib of your child that could potentially cause harm or injury including blankets, pillows and sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches are not allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items can easily fall into or get caught between your baby and the crib bars or be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for babies are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. 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 certs!). They're also designed to be durable and reversible, which means they'll grow with your child.
No matter if you're buying new or used, it's essential to select a crib that is in line with the current stringent safety standards. Secondhand cribs may lose their structural integrity due to age, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose grave dangers to your child.
The slats on your crib should not exceed 3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secure. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by other children or pets, as their security may be at risk. Don't purchase or buy the crib that has a drop-side rail. 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 many design differences. Some are just aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length, or are spaced closer than others, and some can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Some features like finials and drop sides are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place for babies to sleep. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your registry to ensure that family and friends can pitch in to help you purchase one when the time comes.
Cribs come in many different styles, but we prefer ones that blend style with functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is an essential feature for any baby product that is non-toxic, and it can convert into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a grand crib that is a good fit for big nursery spaces, but it occupies more floor space than the smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Additionally, it has only three levels of mattress height, which is less than half the alternatives and isn't as sturdy as our other choices.
Another option that has contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and make it easier to see baby cot online which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for Top ranked cribs new parents. It can be raised higher to alleviate colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with a free matching mattress. It's worth noting, however, that it's more expensive than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is essential that your baby's crib mattress is at the correct height. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which can be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help to keep your child safe from suffocating or overheating.
A quality crib will have adjustable slats or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A conversion kit is included with most good cribs so that you can convert it into a daybed or toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. It is also a good idea to select a crib which has been tested and certified by a third-party institution. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification that means it has been tested to ensure there are minimal chemicals or finishes present in the crib where your baby sleeps.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has a simple design and no confusing parts. It is among the top cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than other cribs however, one user stated that her baby slept well in it and remained in good shape when she gave it to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern look. It's more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it's sturdy and comes with many options to make up the price. It can be easily converted into a bassinet or toddler bed, and it has wheels that make it easy to move around. It also has a canopy that can be used to create an environment more akin to a womb your baby. It adds a fashionable touch in any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is it doesn't have a mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that will grow with your child from a newborn to a toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The safest cribs do not have chewable or Best cot for newborn dangling components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other decorative items, they must ensure that the items are securely secured and aren't within reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our best cribs for babies, we take into consideration how easy it is to set up. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough to be able to do it yourself and doesn't require special tools or long assembly time. The majority of parents say that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour and the instructions included are generally clear and easy to follow.
It is crucial to choose the right crib that will last for many years. Select a crib that is able to be transformed from a crib into an infant's 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 transformed into a toddler Mini Cot Bed, a daybed or a full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a range of colors which makes it easy cots to tots match with your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent alternative. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and soothe their child. It also has a good reputation for quality and is available in cherry, white espresso, natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety. It's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of harmful substances such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also surpasses all safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail that you can purchase separately. This is a good option for those who are looking for an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last.