How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. But picking out a good one can feel overwhelming, especially with so many different designs and security concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, and no dangling or chewable parts. We also recommend a stylish crib that has a variety of mattress sizes and modern, sleek design.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby cot online's crib, make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery. This includes pillows, blankets 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 be placed in the crib of your baby. They could slide between the crib bars or get stuck in them. They may also be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also adhere to strict federal laws, local and state requirements for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They're also designed to last and are flexible, allowing them to expand with your child.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's crucial to select a crib that meets today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs can lose their structural integrity due to humidity, age and prolonged use, which can pose grave dangers to your child.
The crib's slats should not be more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware that is on the crib must be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and hardware for any broken or loose components.
It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that have been used by children or pets, since their safety might have been compromised. Don't purchase or buy a crib with 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 adhere to strict safety standards, there are a lot of design differences. Some of the differences are aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced further than others, and some can affect how easy it is to clean and use the crib. Certain features such as 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.
One important thing to remember is that a crib is meant only for infant sleep, so it's not a place to store toys or clothing. It's also recommended to put the crib on your list so that your family and friends can lend a hand to help you get one when the time comes.
Cribs come in all shapes and sizes however, the ones we like best have a mix of style and functionality. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD gold-certified, which we think is a must for any toxic-free product. It can be turned into a daybed and toddler with a separate conversion kit.
Other cribs beds have more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a chic option that can fit in large nurseries. However, it takes up more floor space when compared to 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 durable as our other choices.
Another option that has a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's all-round mesh and hidden hardware enhance the flow of air, and Dr. Casares believes that this is an attribute that many new parents will appreciate. It can also be raised to a higher position to alleviate reflux and colic which makes it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. 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 the crib mattress of your baby is of the correct height. This will ensure that your child isn't able to climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A quality crib should have adjustable slats or railings to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. A conversion kit is provided with the majority of cribs so that you can turn it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. 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 that it has been tested to ensure that there are minimal chemical or other finishes in the baby's sleeping space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's simple to put together and features a simple design that doesn't have any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than most cribs however one tester said that her child was comfortable in it and was still in good shape when she gave it to a friend after her second child was born.
Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a modern style. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however its durability and features make up for it. It can easily be converted into an infant bed or a bassinet and has wheels to make it simple to move around. 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 only downside to this crib is that it doesn't come with a mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that can expand with your child from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. If something is hung over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to pull or create a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other objects, they should ensure that they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our top cribs beds for babies, we take into consideration how easy it is to assemble. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or spending a large amount of time. 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's important that you choose the right crib that will last for many years. Pick a crib that can be transformed from a crib to a toddler's bed, and later a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet in the beginning, and later transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed or a full-size bed. It's designed to last and is available in a variety of colors, so you can match it to your nursery's theme.
Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to touch their child and comfort their child. It is well-known for quality and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of toxins like lead and phthalates. It also surpasses all safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is not included is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great choice for those seeking a top-quality, affordable cots crib that will last for a long time.