How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is a very essential piece of furniture for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable one can feel overwhelming particularly with the number of different styles and security concerns.

Search for a crib with the most stringent safety standards, including no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib with a range of mattress heights as well as an elegant, modern design.

Safety

When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, make sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any objects that could cause injury or harm in the nursery of your baby. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also, avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals larger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items could easily slide between the crib bars or get stuck within them. They may also be taken in by the mattress.

The best infant cribs are made of safe materials that are free of VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They're also designed to be durable and adaptable, so they can adapt to your child's needs.

No matter if you're buying new or used, it's essential to choose cribs that meet the current stringent safety standards. Used cribs can become less sturdy over time due to humidity, age and heavy use. This can pose serious risks to your baby.

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 secure. It's an excellent idea to inspect the slats and the rims of the mattress support for broken or loose parts.

It's also wise to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their security may be compromised. Don't buy or purchase a second-hand crib with an incline side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to security reasons.

Style

There are a variety of variations in the design of cribs, despite the fact that all must be safe to use standards. Some differences are purely cosmetic, like the slats have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others can impact the ease to use and clean the crib. Certain features, like drop sides and finials aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, like adjustable mattress height and wheels, are desirable by a lot of parents.

One thing to be aware of is that the crib should be used exclusively for sleeping infants It's not an area to store toys or clothes. You can also include a crib on your registry to receive help from friends and family in the event you need help.

Cribs come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the ones we prefer are those that combine style and function. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD gold certified which we believe is essential for any product that is free of toxics. It can be converted to a daybed or toddler by converting it with a separate kit.

Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a chic option that can be incorporated into larger nurseries. However, it takes up more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels which is less than half the alternatives and it's not as durable as our other picks.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern aesthetic. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This is suitable for babies aged 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with an additional mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top picks, and it requires a separate conversion kit for toddler beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

When your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the right level. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which can be fatal or dangerous. A higher mattress can also safeguard your child from overheating or suffocation.

A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise or lower it as your Baby Crib grows. A conversion kit comes with the majority of cribs so that you can convert it into a daybed or toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. It is recommended for you to choose a crib which has been certified and tested by a third-party institution. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is free of finishes or chemicals.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features simple design and doesn't have confusing parts. It is among the top rated cots cribs. The sides of the crib are shorter than other cribs however one tester stated that her baby did well sleeping in it, and was in good shape when she passed it on to a friend after her second child.

Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a contemporary appearance. It's a little more expensive than other cribs, but its quality and features are worth it. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet or a toddler bed, and it has wheels so it's 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. It adds a fashionable design to any nursery.

This crib does not come with a mattress. You'll have to buy one separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will adapt to your child's needs as they grow from infant to toddler.

No dangling or chewable components.

The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grasp objects, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them, it could tug off the rails or become an injury to strangulation. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other decorative items, they must make sure they secure the items and aren't within reach of Baby Cot.

In addition to the safety features of our best cot bed cribs for babies, we take into consideration how easy it is to put together. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or a long amount of time. Most parents report that it takes less than an hour to put together an modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.

A crib will be the most expensive purchase for new parents, and it is essential to choose one that will last for many years to come. To ensure longevity, you should choose a convertible crib that will work from infancy all the way up to an adult bed and then a full-size bed.

Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace an infant bassinet during the first months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It is designed to last and comes in a variety of colors so that you can match it with the theme of your nursery's decor.

Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile so that small parents can reach their child to comfort them. It also has a good reputation for quality and is available in cherry, white espresso, natural pine 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 the standards of government agencies like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing missing is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is an excellent option for those looking for a high-quality crib that is affordable cots and built to last.