The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an extremely important piece for your baby's nursery. However, choosing a suitable crib can be overwhelming, especially with so many different designs and security concerns.
Find a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a chic crib with a range of mattress sizes and an elegant, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your child's crib. It is crucial to not place any items in the crib of your child that could cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals that are 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 trapped in them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also comply with strict federal laws, state and local standards for structural safety. They're also third-party tested to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They're also designed to be tough and reversible, which means they can grow along with your child.
It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and heavy use, posing grave dangers to your child.
The slats on your crib should not be more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware on the crib should be secured. Check the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It is also advisable to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their security may have been compromised. Finally, don't purchase or purchase an older crib that has an incline side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for security reasons.
Style
There are a lot of different designs of cribs, despite the fact that they all have to meet safety standards. Some are just cosmetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced farther than others, and some can make it difficult to use and clean the crib. Some features, like finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should be avoided and others, like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are highly sought-after by many parents.
One thing to be aware of is that the crib should be used only for infant sleep and is not an area to store clothes or toys. It's also an excellent idea to include the crib on your registry to ensure that family and friends can lend a hand to help you purchase one when the time comes.
Cribs come in a variety of shapes and sizes However, the ones we love best have a mix of style and functionality. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and stylish. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider an essential feature for any product that is free of toxics, and it can convert into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stylish choice that will fit into large nursery. However, it occupies more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels, which is less than half the alternatives, and it's not as durable as our other choices.
Another option with a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and make it easier to see your baby cots online which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised to ease colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and the birth. 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 choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is crucial that the crib mattress of your baby is the right height. This ensures that your child isn't able to climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help to keep your child safe from suffocating or overheating.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit is included with the majority of cribs so that you can convert it into a daybed or toddler bed when your child is no longer in the crib. It's recommended for you to choose a crib which has been tested and certified by a third-party organisation. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that the crib of your baby is free of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features an easy design and has no confusing parts. It is among the top cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than other models. However, one parent tester reported that her baby slept well and that the crib was in good shape when she gave it to a friend for her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great alternative. It features an oval shape, which gives it a contemporary look. It's more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it's sturdy and comes with a number of features to make up for the cost. It can, for instance, be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed and is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a space that resembles a womb for your baby. This adds a stylish touch in any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is it doesn't have an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will be adapted to your child's needs from newborn to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or hanging components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to pull or cause strangulation. Babies can be very grabbing. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other decorative objects, they should ensure that the items are securely secured and aren't within reach of Baby.
We also look at how it is easy to build our top cribs for infants. The crib should be simple enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a long amount of time. Most parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour and the instructions included are usually simple and easy to follow.
It is essential to select the right crib that will last for many years. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib into an adult bed, and then a full-size mattress.
Our top pick for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib that can be used to replace the bassinet in the early months, Nursery cots and then be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's made for long-term use and is available in a variety of colors that make it easy to match your nursery's theme.
Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-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 white, cherry and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety. It's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also surpasses standards set by the government like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing lacking is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a good option for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.