How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is among the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the best crib, given so many designs and safety concerns.
Choose a crib that meets the highest safety standards and includes no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a crib with a broad selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that matches your style.
Safety
When assembling and positioning your baby's crib, be sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is crucial to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your baby that could cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items can easily get caught between the crib bars or be trapped in them. They may also be swallowed by the mattress.
The most suitable cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also meet 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're also designed to last and convertible, so they can grow along with your child.
It's important that you choose cribs that meet current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose grave dangers to your child.
The slats on 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 should be secured. Check the slats, mattress support rims and hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It's best to avoid cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, as their security could be at risk. Finally, don't purchase or purchase a second-hand crib with the drop side rail which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for safety reasons.
Style
While all cribs have to comply with strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some of the differences are aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can make it difficult to use and clean the crib. Certain features, like drop sides and finials aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are coveted by a lot of parents.
One thing to keep in mind is that a crib should be used solely for sleep for infants It's not an area to store toys or clothes. You can also put a crib in your registry to get help from friends and family in the event you need help.
Cribs come in many different styles We prefer those that combine design and function. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks gorgeous. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified, which we think is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be turned into a daybed and toddler with a separate conversion kit.
Some cribs feature more traditional designs like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that can be incorporated into large nurseries, but it occupies more floor space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Furthermore, cots to tots has three mattress height levels which is less than half the other options, and it's not as durable as our other choices.
Another option with a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and allow you to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher level to alleviate reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's worth noting, however it's more expensive than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the correct height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help keep your child from overheating or becoming suffocated.
A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. A conversion kit is included in the majority of cribs, to allow you to convert it into a toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer in the crib. In the end, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organisation for safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to make sure there aren't any chemicals or finishes present in your baby's sleep space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has a simple design and no confusing parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are shorter than many other models however one tester reported that her baby slept well in it and was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend after her second child was born.
Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs but its durability and features make up for it. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed. It also comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create an atmosphere that resembles a womb for your baby. best cots uk adds a fashionable design to any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is it doesn't have an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that will grow with your child from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grab things, and if something is hanging over or above their crib, it could pull against the rails or create an injury to strangulation. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they must be sure that the items are securely attached and are not within Baby's reach.
We also consider how easy it is to build our top cribs for infants. The ideal crib will be easy enough to build it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or extensive assembly time. Many parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together a modern crib, and the directions are generally easy to follow.
A crib is the most expensive purchase for new parents, and it's crucial to find one that will last for a long time to be. For long-lasting use, choose a convertible crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life all the way up to a toddler bed and finally a full-size bed.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet in the early years and later transformed into an infant bed, a daybed, or a full-size bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a range of colors which makes it easy to match your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile that makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and soothe them. It is well-known for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental protection, and it's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins like lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last.