How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is an crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable crib can be overwhelming particularly with the number of different designs and safety concerns.

Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a crib with a wide selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that is in line with your style.

Safety

When assembling and arranging your baby's crib make sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm to your baby's nursery. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. They could easily fall into or get caught between your baby and the crib bars or Best Cot For newborn they could be swallowed 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 comply with strict federal and state standards for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They are also designed to be tough and convertible, meaning they'll grow with your child.

It's important that you choose cribs that meet current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can have their structural integrity weakened due to age, Best Cot for Newborn humidity and heavy use, posing serious dangers to your baby.

The slats of your crib should be no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware that is on the crib should be secured. It's an excellent idea to check the slats and mattress support rims for broken or loose parts.

It is best to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their safety may have been compromised. Finally, don't purchase or buy a second-hand crib with an incline side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for reasons of safety.

Style

Although all cribs must meet strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some are just cosmetic, such as the slats have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can impact the ease to use and clean the crib. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should not be used and others, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are popular with parents.

A crib isn't intended to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's designed to be an area where babies can sleep. It's also an excellent idea to include the crib on your registry so that friends and family can pitch in to help you get one when the time arrives.

Cribs are available in many different styles However, we prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD gold certified, which we think is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be transformed into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.

Other cribs have a more traditional look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that is a good fit for big nursery spaces, but it takes up more floor space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some find distracting. It only has three levels of mattress, which is half the competition's number. It's not as sturdy 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 aspect for new parents. It can be raised to alleviate colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and the birth. It's GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an additional mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices and requires an additional 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 will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which could be fatal or dangerous. A higher mattress also helps to keep your child safe from overheating or suffocating.

A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise or lower it as your baby grows. The majority of cribs come with a conversion kit, so you can convert the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your baby outgrows it. In the end, it's best to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organisation to ensure safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is free of any chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs on the market, and it's easy to assemble, with a straightforward design that doesn't have any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than other models. However, one parent tester said that her child slept well and the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend as her second baby.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern look. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features are worth it. It can, for instance, be transformed into a bassinet, or toddler bed. It also has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a child-like space for your baby. It also adds a stylish touch to any nursery.

The only downside to this crib is it doesn't have an additional mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will expand with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Components

The safest cribs have no chewable or dangling components. Babies like to grab things, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them, it could snag on the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other decorative objects, they should make sure they secure the items and aren't within reach of Baby.

In addition to the security features of our top cribs for babies, we take into consideration how easy it is to put together. Ideally, the crib should be easy enough that you can make it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or long assembly time. The majority of parents say it takes less than an hour to put together an modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.

It's important that you choose a crib that lasts for many years. For long-lasting use, choose a convertible crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life all the way to an adult bed and then a full-size bed.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the beginning, and later transformed into an infant bed, a daybed or a full-size bed. It's designed to last and is available in many colors so you can match it with your nursery's design theme.

Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for petite parents to touch their child and comfort their child. It also has a great reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white espresso, natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also far exceeds safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is not included is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great crib option for those looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.