11 Methods To Completely Defeat Your Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most recommended cribs essential pieces of your baby's nursery. However, choosing a suitable one can feel overwhelming particularly with the number of different styles and security concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a crib with a broad range of mattress height settings and a stylish design that is in line with your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your child's crib. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery cots. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. These items could easily fall between your baby's crib bars or become stuck within them. They could also be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also comply with 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 certifications!) And they are designed to be durable and convertible so they can grow with your child.
It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to age, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose serious dangers to your baby.
The slats on your crib should not be longer than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secure. It's also a good idea to inspect the slats and the rims of the mattress support for any loose or broken components.
It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets, as their security might have been compromised. Also, don't purchase or purchase a secondhand crib that has a drop side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to security reasons.
Style
Although all cribs must comply with strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some of the differences are cosmetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others could impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Certain features such as drop sides and finials are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also include a crib in your registry to seek help from friends and family in the event you need help.
Cribs come in many different styles, but we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and looks sharp. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is essential for any baby product that is non-toxic, and it can convert into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Some cribs feature an older-style look, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a chic option that will fit into large nursery. However, it takes more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half of the other options and isn't as durable as our other choices.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a modern design. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher height to alleviate reflux and colic which makes it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It is also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary mattress. 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
It is crucial that your baby's crib mattress is the right height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be fatal or dangerous. A mattress that is higher also helps to keep your child safe from overheating or becoming suffocated.
A good crib will have adjustable slats or railings to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into a toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. In the end, it's best cots to choose a crib that has been tested and approved by a third party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee the crib of your cheap baby cots for sale is free of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has a simple design and no complicated parts. It is one of the most highly-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than many other models however, one user reported that her baby did well sleeping in it and was still in good condition when she gave it to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It features an oval shape, which gives it a contemporary look. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features make up for it. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet, or toddler bed and has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a child-like space for your baby. It's also an elegant touch to any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is it doesn't have mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will expand with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Components
The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging from their crib or above them it could tug off the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they must ensure that the items are securely secured and out of baby's reach.
We also look at how it is easy to build our top infant cribs. The crib should be easy enough to assemble by yourself, without the need for special tools or a large amount of time. Many parents report that the process of assembling a modern crib can take less than a half hour, and the instructions included are usually clear and easy to follow.
A crib is the most expensive purchase for new parents, which is why it is essential to choose one that will last for a long time to be. To ensure longevity, you should choose an adjustable crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life all the way to the toddler bed, and then an adult-sized bed.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can be used as a bassinet for those early months, and then be converted to a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's built to last and comes in a variety of colors so that you can match it to your nursery's design theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile that allows parents who are small to touch their child and comfort their child. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and is available in cherry, white espresso, natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety. It's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also surpasses all safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great choice for those looking for a quality crib that is affordable and built to last.