The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is a very crucial piece for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good crib can be a daunting task, especially with so many different designs and security concerns.
Choose a crib that meets the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a sleek crib with a variety of mattress heights and an elegant, modern design.
Safety
When assembling and positioning your baby's crib, be sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is crucial to not place any items in the crib of your child that could potentially cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets as well as sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. These items could easily slide between the crib bars or be stuck within them. They may also be taken in by the mattress.
The most suitable cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also meet strict federal laws, local and state regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certs!). They're also designed to last and are convertible so they can adapt to your child's needs.
It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to age, humidity and frequent use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The crib's slats should be no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent children from being wedged between them and the hardware that is on the crib should be secured. Examine the slats, Cheap baby cots mattress support rims, and hardware for any broken or loose components.
It's also wise to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their security could be at risk. Don't buy or accept cribs with drop-side rails. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
Although all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, there are a lot of design differences. Some differences are purely cosmetic, such as the slats have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others could make it difficult to use and clean the crib. Certain features such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels, are desirable by many parents.
A crib is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also include the crib on your registry to get help from family and friends in the event that you require one.
Cribs are available in many different styles However, we prefer those that combine style with functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified which we believe is a must for any toxic-free product. It can be turned into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.
Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It is a stylish option that will fit into large nurseries. However, it takes more floor space compared to smaller minimalist options. It only has three levels of mattress, which is half the number offered by competitors. It's not as durable as our other picks.
Another option that has modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and allow you to observe baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher level to ease colic and reflux, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes an additional mattress. It's worth noting, however, that 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 important that the mattress is at the right height. This will ensure that your child can't climb out and fall, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also safeguard your child from overheating or suffocation.
A quality crib will include slats that can be adjusted or railings that let you raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A conversion kit is included in the majority of cribs, to allow you to convert it into a daybed or toddler bed when your child is no longer in the crib. It's recommended for you to choose the crib that has been tested and certified 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 any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has an easy design and Baby Cot Bed has no confusing parts. It is one of the top ranked cribs-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are shorter than other cribs, but one parent tester stated that her baby slept well in it and remained in good condition when she gave it to a friend following the birth of her second child was born.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It has an oval shape which gives it a modern look. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however it is durable and has a number of features to make up for the price. It can easily be converted into a toddler Mini Cot Bed or bassinet and has wheels to make it simple to move around. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a space that resembles a womb for your baby. This is a chic touch in any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with mattress. You will need to buy one separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will expand with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.
No Chewable or Dangling Parts
The safest cribs beds do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grab objects, and if something is hanging over or above their crib it could snag against the rails or create an entanglement hazard. If a parent decides 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 it is easy to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be easy enough to put together yourself without requiring special tools or a long amount of time. Many parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour and the included instructions are usually simple and easy to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, and it is essential to choose one that will last for many years to come. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib to an adult bed, and then a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet in the beginning, and later transformed into an infant bed, a daybed, or a large bed. It's designed to last and comes in a variety of colors, so you can match it to your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to touch their child and comfort them. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry, 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 of toxins like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the standards of government agencies such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a great choice for those looking for an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last.