How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is a very important piece for the nursery of your baby. It isn't easy to pick the best crib, given so many designs and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling parts. We also suggest a crib that has a broad selection of mattress heights and a sleek design that complements your style.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is essential to not place any items in the crib of your baby which could cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows and sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items can easily fall between your baby's crib bars or get trapped in them. They may also be taken in by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state standards for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They are also designed to be durable and reversible, which means they'll grow with your child.
It's crucial to choose a crib which meets the current safety standards, whether you're buying a brand new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can have their structural integrity weakened due to aging, humidity and frequent use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The slats on your crib should not be more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent children from being wedged between them and the hardware on the crib must be secured. It's an excellent idea to examine the slats and the rims of the mattress support for any loose or broken components.
It is best to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their safety could be at risk. Don't buy or accept the crib that has drop-side rails. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
Although all cribs must comply with strict safety standards, you'll find a lot of design differences. Some differences are purely cosmetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can affect how easy it is to clean and use the crib. Some features like finials and drop sides are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like adjustable mattress height and wheels, are sought-after by many parents.
One important thing to remember is that a crib is meant solely for sleep for infants and is not an area to store toys or clothing. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your registry so that your family and friends can pitch in to assist you in getting one when the time comes.
Cribs come in many different styles We prefer ones that blend style with functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and stylish. It is 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 with a separate conversion kit.
Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stylish choice that can fit in large nursery. However, it occupies more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half the alternatives, and it's not as sturdy as our other picks.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a modern design. The Babyletto Hudson's mesh all-around and hidden hardware help to improve airflow, and Dr. Casares believes that this is a feature that many new parents will appreciate. It can also be elevated to a higher level to help reduce colic and reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It's GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an additional mattress. It's worth noting, though it's more expensive than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it is important that the mattress is at the right height. This will ensure that your child isn't able to climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A good crib will include slats that can be adjusted or railings to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A conversion kit comes with most good cribs so that you can convert it into a toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer in the crib. It is an excellent idea to pick a crib that has been tested and certified by a third-party institution. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee your baby's crib is not contaminated of finishes or chemicals.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib has an easy design and has no confusing parts. It is one of the most highly-rated cribs. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one tester said that her child was sleeping well and the crib was in good condition when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary appearance. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features are worth it. It can easily be converted into an infant bed or a bassinet and has wheels to make it simple to move. It comes with a canopy that can be used to create an atmosphere more like a womb for your baby. This adds a stylish design to any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is it doesn't have mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they transition from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies like to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging from or above their crib, it could snag against the rails or create a strangulation hazard. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should ensure that the items are securely secured and aren't within reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our top cribs for babies, we take into consideration how easy it is to assemble. Ideally, the crib should be easy enough to be able to build it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or a long time to assemble. Most parents report that it takes less than an hour to put together the modern crib, and the directions are generally easy to follow.
A crib is the most expensive purchase for new parents, and it is essential to choose one that will last for many years to come. For longevity, opt for an adjustable crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life all the way up to a toddler bed and finally a larger bed.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet during the early years and later converted into an infant bed, a daybed or a larger bed. mini cot beds Cots For Tots 's designed to last and is available in a variety of colors, so you can match it with your nursery's design theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another great alternative. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for parents who are small to touch their child and comfort their child. It has a good reputation for quality, and comes in cherry, white 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 toxins like lead and phthalates (BPA). It also far exceeds safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that's missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a great choice for those who want an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.