How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is a very crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. It can be difficult to choose the right crib, with so many designs and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that adheres to the most stringent safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a crib that has a broad range of mattress height settings and a stylish design that is in line with your style.
Safety
When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, make sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items 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 larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. They could get caught between the crib bars or be stuck in them. They may also get taken up by the mattress.
The most suitable cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certs!). They are also designed to last and convertible, meaning they'll continue to grow with your child.
It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a new or used crib. Secondhand cribs could be weakened in the course of time due to humidity, age and use. This can create serious risks for your baby.
The slats on your crib should not be longer than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secure. Examine the slats, mattress support rims and the hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It's also wise to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their security might be compromised. Don't buy or purchase an older crib that has an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to reasons of safety.
Style
There are a lot of different designs of cribs, despite the fact that all must meet safety standards. Some are purely aesthetic, such as whether the slats are of the same length or spaced closer together or not, while others have a real impact on the ease of the crib to operate and maintain. Certain features, like drop sides and finials are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.
A crib isn't designed to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's designed to be an area where babies can sleep. It's also recommended to put the crib on your registry so that your family and friends can pitch in to help you get one when the time arrives.
Cribs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes however, the ones we like best crib have a mix of style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks gorgeous. 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 as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Other cribs have more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden cots 4 tots-in-1. It is a stylish option that can be incorporated into larger nurseries. However, it occupies more space than smaller minimalist options. Additionally, it has only three levels of mattress height, which is less than half of the alternatives and it's not as sturdy as some of our other picks.
Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you to observe baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised higher to relieve reflux and colic. This is suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress that is also a match. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top picks, and it requires a separate conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is the right height. This ensures that your child doesn't fall out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into the toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer using it. It is an excellent idea for you to choose the crib that has been tested and certified by a third-party institution. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that your baby's crib is not contaminated of chemicals or finishes.
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 shorter than those of other cribs. However, one tester said that her baby slept well and that the crib was in good condition when she gave it to a friend for her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It features an oval shape, which gives it a modern look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features are worth it. It can easily be transformed into an infant bed or a bassinet and has wheels to make it easy to move. It has a canopy which can be used to create an atmosphere more like a womb for your baby. This adds a stylish accent to any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with a mattress. You will need to buy one separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they grow from infant cot bed to toddler.
There are no dangling or chewable ingredients.
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling parts. If something is hung above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they must ensure that the items are securely secured and are not within Baby's reach.
We also consider how easy it is to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be easy enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or a long amount of time. Many parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together a modern crib, and the instructions are usually easy to follow.
It is essential to select a crib that lasts for many years. Pick a crib that can be converted 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 during the early months and then converted into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It's designed to last and is available in a variety of colors, so you can match it with your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another great option. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib has a low profile that makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and soothe their child. It is well-known for its quality, and is available in cherry, white and espresso 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 safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing missing is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great choice for those looking for a quality crib that is affordable and built to last for a long time.