How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential items for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to pick the ideal crib, due to so many styles and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that meets the most stringent safety standards and has no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a crib that has a broad selection of mattress heights and a sleek design that matches your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your child's crib. It is essential to avoid putting any items in the crib of your baby that could cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows and 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 that are larger than 15 inches. These items can easily slide between the crib bars or become stuck in them. They may also get 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 comply with strict federal, state and local standards for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) And they are designed to be sustainable and adaptable, so they can adapt to your child's needs.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's important to choose a crib that meets today's strict safety standards. Used cribs can become less sturdy over time due to humidity, age and frequent use. This can create serious risks for your baby.
The slats of your crib should be spaced no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware on the crib must be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It's best to avoid cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, since their security could be at risk. Don't purchase or buy the crib that has drop-side rails. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
There are a lot of design differences between cribs, even though they all have to meet safety standards. Some are just cosmetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others could make it difficult to use and clean the crib. Some features, like finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should not be used, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are popular with parents.
One thing to be aware of is that a crib should be used only for infant sleep and is not a place to store toys or clothing. It's also an excellent idea to include a crib on your registry so that your family and friends can pitch in to help you purchase one when the time arrives.
Cribs come in many different styles However, we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks great. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified and we believe that is essential for any toxic-free product. It can be converted into a toddler and daybed by converting it with a separate kit.
Some cribs sport an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a chic option that will fit into large nursery. However, it takes more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. Moreover, it only has three levels of mattress height, which is less than half of the alternatives and isn't as sturdy as some of our other choices.
Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance 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 alleviate colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and birth. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a matching mattress. It's important to remember that this bed is more expensive than the other top picks and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is crucial that your baby's crib mattress is of the correct height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be dangerous or fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your baby from overheating or suffocation.
A quality crib should have slats or railings that are adjustable to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. A conversion kit is provided with the majority of cribs to allow you to convert it into a toddler bed or daybed after your child has outgrown the crib. It's an excellent idea for you to choose a crib which is tested and certified by a third-party organization. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee the crib of your baby is free of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features an easy design and has no complicated parts. It is among the most highly-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than many other models however one tester reported that her baby was comfortable in it and was still in good shape when she passed it on to a relative after the birth of her second child.
cot bed sales is another great option. It features an oval shape, which gives it a modern look. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however its durability and features make up for it. It can be easily converted into a bassinet or toddler bed and comes with wheels to make it simple to move. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It also adds an elegant look to any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with mattresses. You'll have to buy one separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they transition from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other decorative objects, they should ensure that they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.
We also examine how easy it is to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or a long amount of time. Most parents report that it takes less than an hour to assemble a modern crib, and the directions are generally easy to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, and it is essential to choose one that will last for a long time to be. For longevity, opt for a convertible crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life all the way up to a toddler bed and finally an adult-sized bed.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet during the early months and then transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed or a larger bed. It's designed for the long haul and is available in a variety of colors, making it easy to match with your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile that allows petite parents to reach their child and soothe their child. It also has a good reputation for quality and is available in white, cherry espresso, natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental protection, and it's made from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins such as lead and phthalates (BPA). 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 looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last.