How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is among the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. However, choosing a suitable crib can be a daunting task, especially with so many different designs and security concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a stylish crib with a range of mattress heights as well as a sleek, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your child's crib. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in the nursery of your baby. This includes pillows, blankets and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. Also, your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. These items can easily slide between the crib bars or become stuck in them. They may also get taken in by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made of 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 are also designed to be tough and convertible, so they can grow along with your child.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's important to choose a crib that meets today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs may lose their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and heavy use, posing serious dangers to your baby.
The slats of your crib should not exceed 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware must be secure. Check the slats, mattress support rims and hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It's also wise to avoid using cribs that have been used by children or pets, as their security could be compromised. Also, don't purchase or purchase a second-hand crib with a drop side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for safety reasons.
Style
Although all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, you'll find many design differences. Some of the differences are aesthetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced farther than others, and some can affect how easy it is 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 heights and wheels/casters are desirable for many parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place for babies to sleep. It's also recommended to put a crib on your registry to ensure that family and friends can pitch in to help you purchase one when the time comes.
Cribs come in a variety of shapes and sizes However, the ones we prefer are those that combine style and function. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified and we believe that is essential for any toxic-free product. It can be turned into a toddler and daybed by converting it with a separate kit.
Some cribs feature a more traditional look, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that is a good fit for large nurseries, but it occupies more floor space than the smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some might find distracting. It has only three mattress levels which is less than the competition's number. It's not as sturdy as our other choices.
Another option that has modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to observe baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised higher to ease colic and reflux. Mini Cot Bed is suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It's GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with a free matching mattress. It's worth noting, however it's more costly than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is important that your baby's crib mattress is the right height. This ensures that your child doesn't fall out, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your child from suffocation or overheating.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit comes with most good cribs so that you can convert it into a toddler bed or daybed once your child outgrows the crib. Finally, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and approved by a third party organization to ensure safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to ensure that there are no harmful chemical or other finishes in the baby's sleeping space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has simple design and doesn't have complicated parts. It is among the most highly-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than many other models however one tester said that her child was comfortable in it, and was in good shape when she gave it to a friend after her second child.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary style. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, but its durability and features make up for it. It is able to be converted into a toddler bed or bassinet and has wheels to make it easy to move. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a child-like space for your baby. It's also a stylish touch to any nursery.
This crib does not come with a mattress. You will need to buy one separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can grow with your child from newborn to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. If something is hanging above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are extremely grabbing. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative items, they must make sure they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.
We also consider how easy it is to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without requiring special tools or a lot of time. The majority of parents say that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour, and the included instructions are usually clear and easy to follow.
It is crucial to choose a crib that lasts for many years. Choose a crib that can be converted from a crib into an adult bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the early years and later transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a large bed. It is designed to last and is available in many colors so you can match it with your nursery's design theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and calm their child. It also has a good reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white, espresso, and natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also surpasses standards set by the government like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a great choice for those who are looking for a high-quality affordable crib that will last for a long time.