How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an crucial piece for your baby's nursery. However, choosing a suitable crib can be overwhelming particularly with the number of different styles and security concerns.
Choose cribs that meet the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling components. We recommend a crib with a wide range of mattress height settings and a stylish design that complements your style.
Safety
When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, be sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is essential to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your child which could cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows, sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches are not allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. They could easily fall into or be trapped between your baby and the crib bars or they could be engulfed by the mattress.
The best cribs for babies are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also meet strict federal laws, local and state standards for structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They're designed to be sustainable and convertible so they can expand with your child.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's important to select a crib that meets today's strict safety standards. Used cribs may lose their structural integrity due to age, humidity and heavy use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The crib's slats should not exceed 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secured. It's also a good idea to inspect the mattress support rims and slats for any broken or loose components.
It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by children or pets, as their security could be compromised. Finally, don't purchase or buy a second-hand crib with an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for security reasons.
Style
Although all cribs must comply with strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some are just cosmetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others could affect how easy it is to clean and use the crib. Some features like finials and drop sides are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
One important thing to remember is that the crib should be used exclusively for sleeping infants and is not a place to store toys or clothes. You can also include a crib on your registry to receive assistance from family and friends when you need one.
Cribs come in all shapes and sizes however, the ones we prefer combine style and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It is 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 with a separate conversion kit.
Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stylish choice that will fit into large nurseries. However, it takes up more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half of the alternatives and it's not as durable as our other options.
Another option that has modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's mesh all-around and hidden hardware improve the flow of air, and Dr. Casares believes that this is an attribute that many new parents will appreciate. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's worth noting, however it's more expensive than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is essential that the crib mattress of your baby is at the correct height. This will ensure that your child can't climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your baby from suffocation or overheating.
A quality crib will have adjustable slats or railings that let you raise or lower the mattress as your infant grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit that allows you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your baby outgrows it. It is also a good idea to select a crib that has been tested and certified by a third-party institution. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification that means it has been tested to make sure there are no harmful chemicals or finishes in the baby's sleeping space.
cot for sale of the best-rated cribs on the market, and it's simple to put together and features a simple design that doesn't have any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than other cribs, but one parent tester reported that her baby slept well in it and remained in good condition when she passed it on to a relative after the birth of her second child.
Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a contemporary style. It's a bit more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it's durable and comes with a number of options to make up the cost. It can be easily converted into a bassinet or toddler bed, and it has wheels to make it easy to move. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a like a womb for your baby. It also adds an elegant look to any nursery.
This crib does not come with a mattress. You will need to purchase one separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will grow with your child from a newborn to a toddler.
No dangling or chewable components.
The safest cribs have no chewable or dangling parts. If something is hung above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If parents decide to decorate their crib with ornaments 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 infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a lot of time. sale cot report that it takes less than one hour to put together an modern crib, and the instructions are usually easy to follow.
A crib will be an important purchase for many new parents, and it is essential to choose one that will last for many years to be. 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 a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the early years and later converted into an infant bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It is designed to last and comes in a variety of colors, so you can match it to 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, minimalist-style crib is low-profile which makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and soothe 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 protection, and it's made from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of harmful substances such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds the government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is not included is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last.