How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. It can be difficult to choose the right crib, with so many styles and safety concerns.
Choose cribs that meet the most stringent safety standards and has no chewable or dangling parts. We recommend a crib with a broad selection of mattress heights and a modern design that is in line with your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your child's crib. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm to the nursery of your baby. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. These items could easily fall into or get trapped between your baby and the crib bars or be swallowed by the mattress.
The most suitable cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also meet strict federal, state and local standards for structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). And they are designed to be durable and adaptable, so they can adapt to your child's needs.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's important to select a crib that meets the current stringent safety standards. Used cribs can become less sturdy over time due to age, humidity and frequent use. This could create serious risks for your baby.
The slats on your crib should not exceed 3/8 inches (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secure. It's also a good idea to check the mattress support rims and slats for any broken or loose components.
It is also advisable to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their security might be at risk. Do not purchase or purchase a crib with a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
While all cribs have to comply with strict safety standards, you'll find many design differences. Some are simply aesthetic, like whether the slats are the same length or placed closer together, while others have an impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Certain features, like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, like the adjustable mattress height and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.
One thing to be aware of is that the crib should be used only best cots for newborns infant sleep, so it's not an ideal place to store clothes or toys. It's also an excellent idea to include the crib on your list to ensure that family and friends can assist you in getting one when the time arrives.
Cribs come in many different styles We prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks stunning. It's also GREENGUARD gold certified and we believe that is essential for any toxic-free product. It can be turned into a toddler and daybed by converting it with a separate kit.
Some cribs feature a more traditional look, such as the DaVinci Jayden cots 4 tots-in-1. It's a chic option that can be incorporated into larger nurseries. However, it takes more space than smaller minimalist options. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels, which is less than half of the alternatives, and it's not as durable as our other picks.
Another option that has a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can be raised higher to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress that is also a match. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than other top options and requires a separate conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is essential that your baby's crib mattress is at the correct height. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help protect your baby from overheating or becoming suffocated.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise or lower it as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed when your child is no longer using it. Finally, it's a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third-party organization for safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to ensure there aren't any chemicals or finishes present in the baby's sleeping space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features an easy design and has no confusing parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than most cribs however, one user reported that her baby slept well in it and remained in good condition when she gave it to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great alternative. It has an oval shape, which gives it a contemporary look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its durability and features are worth it. It can, for instance, be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed. It also has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create an atmosphere more akin to a womb your baby. It adds a fashionable accent to any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is it doesn't have a mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will expand with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The safest cribs do not have chewable or hanging components. Babies love to grasp objects, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them it could snag on the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they must be sure that the items are securely attached and out of baby's reach.
We also examine how it is easy to put together our top infant cribs. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough to do it yourself and doesn't require special tools or a long time to assemble. Most parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour and the included instructions are usually simple and easy to follow.
It is essential to select a crib that will last many years. Choose a crib that can be transformed from a crib into an infant's bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
Our top pick for a cots 4 tots-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace an infant bassinet during the first months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a range of colors which makes it easy to match with your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another great option. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a low profile that allows petite parents to reach their child and calm their child. 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 made from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of harmful substances such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also surpasses standards set by the government such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing missing is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a good option for those who want an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last for a long time.