How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. However, choosing a suitable one can feel overwhelming particularly with the number of different designs and security concerns.
Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling components. We recommend a crib that has a broad range of mattress height settings and a modern design that is in line with your style.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to avoid putting any items in the crib of your baby which could cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. These items could easily slide between the crib bars or get stuck in them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also comply with strict federal laws, local and state regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). They're designed to last and are flexible, allowing them to adapt to your child's needs.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's essential to select a crib that meets today's strict safety standards. Used cribs can be weakened in the course of time due to age, humidity and frequent use. This can pose serious risks to your baby.
The crib's slats should not exceed 3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware must be secure. Check the slats, mattress support rims and the hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that have been used by children or pets, as their security could be compromised. Do not purchase or purchase cribs with 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 meet strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some are just aesthetic, like whether the slats are all the same length or Small Cot Beds spaced closer apart, while others have an impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Certain features such as drop sides and finials aren't 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 for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place for babies to sleep. You can also include the crib on your registry to get help from family and friends in the event that you require one.
Cribs are available in a variety of different styles We prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is a must-have for any toxic-free baby product, and it can convert into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Some 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 space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some find distracting. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than the number of competitors. It's not as durable as our other picks.
Another option with a modern aesthetic 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 many new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and the birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary mattress. It's important to remember that this bed is more expensive than other top picks and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is the correct level. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be risky or even fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your child from overheating or suffocation.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. The majority of cribs include a conversion kit that allows you can turn the crib into the toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. It is also a good idea to pick the crib that is tested and certified by a third-party organisation. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that the crib of your baby is free of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's easy to put together, with a straightforward design that doesn't include any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are smaller than other models. However, one parent tester reported that her child slept well and the crib was still in good shape when she gave it to a relative for her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great alternative. It features an oval shape which creates a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features make up for it. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet, or toddler cot bed sales and is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It has a canopy which can be used to create a space more like a womb for your baby. This adds a stylish design to any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is that it doesn't come with an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Components
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies like to grab things, and if something is hanging from or above their crib, it could pull on the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other objects, they should make sure the items are securely secured and not in reach of Baby.
We also look at how it is easy to build our top infant cribs. The crib should be easy enough to assemble yourself, without the need for special tools or spending a lot of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to put together an modern crib, and the instructions are generally easy to follow.
A crib will be an important purchase for many new parents, and it's important to find one that will last for many years to come. Pick a crib that can be converted from a crib to a toddler'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 an infant bassinet during the first months, and later convert to a toddler bed daybed, or a full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a variety of colors which makes it easy to match your nursery design theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile to ensure that parents with small feet can reach their child and soothe them. It is renowned for its quality, and is available in cherry, white and espresso 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 toxins such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also far exceeds government safety standards, including 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 are looking for a high-quality affordable crib that will last for a long time.