How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an crucial piece for your baby cots on sale's nursery. It isn't easy to select the right crib, with so many designs and safety concerns.
Look for cribs that meet the highest safety standards and includes no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a crib with a wide selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that complements your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your baby's crib. It is essential to not place any items in your baby's crib that could cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals larger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. They could get caught between the crib bars or be stuck within them. They may also be taken up by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also meet strict federal, state and local 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 are also designed to last and convertible, so they'll grow with your child.
It's important that you choose a crib that meets current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Used cribs can lose structural integrity over time due to age, humidity and use. This can cause serious dangers to your baby.
The crib's slats should be 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. Check the slats, mattress support rims and the hardware for any broken or loose components.
It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their safety could be compromised. Do not purchase or purchase the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
There are a lot of different designs of cribs, despite the fact that they all must meet safety standards. Some are just cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced farther than others, and some can impact the ease to clean and use 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 casters/wheels--are desirable for 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 an excellent idea to include the crib on your registry to ensure that family and friends can assist you in getting one when the time comes.
Cribs come in many different styles, but we prefer those that combine style with functionality. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD gold-certified and we believe that is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be transformed into a daybed and toddler by converting it with a separate kit.
Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stately choice that can be incorporated into big nursery spaces, but it takes up more space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. It only has three levels of mattress, which is half the competition's number. It's not as durable as our other choices.
Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be raised to a higher level to ease colic and reflux which makes it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a matching mattress. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it is important that the mattress is the right level. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which could be fatal or dangerous. A mattress that is higher can also help to keep your child safe from suffocating or overheating.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. A conversion kit comes in the majority of cribs, so that you can convert it into a daybed or toddler bed when your child is no longer in the crib. It's an excellent idea to pick a crib that is 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 finishes or chemicals.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's easy to assemble, with a straightforward design that doesn't include any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than most cribs however one tester stated that her baby was comfortable in it and remained in good cribs shape when she passed it on to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a modern appearance. It's a bit more costly than most cribs, but it is durable and has many options to make up the price. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet, or a toddler bed, and it comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It has a canopy which can be used to create an environment more like a womb for your baby. This adds a stylish touch in any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with mattresses. You'll have to buy one separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.
No Chewable or Dangling Parts
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling parts. Babies love to grab objects, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them, it could snag against the rails or create a strangulation hazard. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they need to make sure that the items are securely secured and out of cheap baby cots for sale's reach.
We also examine how easy it is to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without the need for special tools or a long amount of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to put together the modern crib, and the directions are generally easy to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, which is why it's important to find one that will last for many years to come. Choose a crib that can be transformed from a crib sets into an adult bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the early months and then converted into an infant bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It's made for long-term use and comes in a range of colors, making it easy to match with your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile so that small parents can reach their child to comfort them. It has a good reputation for its quality, and is available in white, cherry 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 safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last.