How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an extremely crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable crib can be overwhelming especially when you consider the many different designs and safety concerns.
Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a stylish crib with a range of mattress heights as well as an elegant, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your child's crib. It is essential to avoid putting any items in your baby's crib that could potentially cause injury or harm 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 other stuffed animals larger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items can easily slide between the crib bars or get stuck within them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also comply with strict federal and state standards for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). And they are designed to last and are convertible so they can adapt to your child's needs.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's crucial to select cribs that meet today's strict safety standards. Used cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to humidity, age and frequent use, posing grave dangers to your child.
The slats on your crib should not be longer than 3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware must be secure. Check the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, as their safety may have been compromised. 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
There are a variety of different designs of cribs, despite the fact that all must meet safety standards. Some differences are purely cosmetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced further apart, while others could impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should be avoided, while others--like adjustable mattress height and wheels/casters desirable for many parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended 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 lend a hand to assist you in getting one when the time comes.
Cribs come in a variety of sizes and shapes However, the ones we like best combine style and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is an essential feature for any toxic-free baby product, and it can convert into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Some cribs sport a more traditional look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a classy crib that fits well into large nurseries, but it takes up more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some might find distracting. It only has three mattress levels, which is half the competition's number. It's also not as sturdy as our other choices.
Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's mesh all-around and hidden hardware enhance the flow of air, and Dr. Casares believes that this is a feature that many new parents will find important. It can also be elevated to a higher height to alleviate reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to note, however 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's important that the mattress is at the right height. This ensures that your child doesn't fall out and fall, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can safeguard your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. Most good cribs, www.cots4tots.co.uk, will also include a conversion kit that allows you can turn the crib into the toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. Finally, it's best to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organization to ensure safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification that means it has been tested to make sure there aren't any chemicals or finishes present in the crib where your baby sleeps.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has a simple design and no complicated parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The crib's sides are shorter than those of other cribs. However, one parent tester said that her child slept well and the crib was still in good shape when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic option. It features an oval shape, which gives it a modern look. It's a little more expensive than other cribs but its quality and features make up for it. It can be easily converted into a bassinet or toddler bed, and it has wheels that make it easy to move around. It has a canopy which can be used to create an environment more like a womb for your baby. This is a chic design to any nursery.
This crib does not come with a mattress. You'll have to purchase a mattress separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that can grow with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. Babies love to grasp things, and if something is hanging from or above their crib, it could tug on the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other decorative objects, they should ensure that the items are secured tightly and aren't in the reach of Baby.
We also examine how easy it is to build our top cribs for infants. The crib should be simple enough to assemble yourself, without the need for special tools or spending a lot of time. Many parents report that it takes less than an hour to assemble a modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.
It's important that you choose the right crib that will last for many years. Select a crib that is able to be transformed from a crib to an adult bed, and then a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet during the early months and then transformed into an infant bed, a daybed or a large bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a range of colors, making it easy to match your nursery design theme.
Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and calm their child. It has a good reputation for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.