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 styles and safety concerns.
Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a sleek crib that has a variety of mattress heights and a sleek, modern design.
Safety
When assembling and setting up your
Baby cots Online's crib, make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is crucial to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could potentially cause harm or injury including blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Teddy bears, dolls, and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could get caught between the crib bars or get stuck 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 adhere to strict federal laws, local and state regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They are also designed to last and convertible, so they'll grow with your child.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's essential to select cribs that meet today's strict safety standards. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to humidity, age and frequent use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The slats on your crib should not exceed 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secured. Check the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any broken or loose components.
It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, as their security could have been compromised. Don't buy or buy a second-hand crib with a drop side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to security reasons.
Style
Although all cribs must comply with strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some are just cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can make it difficult to use and clean the crib. Some features, like finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should not be used as well. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are highly sought-after by many parents.
A crib is not meant to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also include a crib on your registry to receive help from friends and family when you need one.
Cribs are available in a variety of sizes and shapes However, the ones we prefer have a mix of style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks gorgeous. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider a must-have for any product that is free of toxics and can be converted into a toddler
Mini Cot Bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs feature a more traditional look, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a classy crib that is a good fit for large nursery spaces, however it takes up more floor space than the smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. It only has three levels of mattress which is a fraction of the competition's number. It's not as durable as our other choices.
Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and allow you to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised higher to alleviate colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's worth noting, though it's more expensive than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the right height. This will ensure that your child can't climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can safeguard your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A good crib will include slats that can be adjusted or railings that let you raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can convert the crib into the toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. It's an excellent idea to select a crib which has been certified and tested by a third-party organisation. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is not contaminated of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib has simple design and doesn't have complicated parts. It is one of the most highly-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than those of other cribs. However, one parent tester reported that her child was sleeping well and the crib was in good shape when she gave it to a friend for her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic alternative. It has 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 many options to make up the cost. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet or a toddler bed, and it comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used 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'll have to purchase one separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from newborn to toddler.
There are no dangling or chewable ingredients.
The safest cribs have no chewable or hanging components. Babies love to grab objects, and if something is hanging from or above their crib it could snag on the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they need to ensure that the items are securely attached and are out of Baby's reach.
We also look at how easy it is to build our top cribs for infants. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without requiring special tools or a large amount of time. Many parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than a half hour, and the instructions included are usually simple and easy to follow.
It's important that you choose a crib that lasts for many years. Pick a crib that can be transformed from a crib to an infant's bed, and later a full-size mattress.
Our
top ranked cribs pick for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can be used as the bassinet in the early months, and later convert to a toddler bed daybed, and full-size bed. It's built to last and is available in a variety of colors so that you can match it to your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile so that small parents can reach their child and calm them. It is renowned 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 constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of harmful substances such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also surpasses standards set by the government such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA.