Best Infant Cribs Explained In Less Than 140 Characters
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential items for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to pick the right crib, with so many designs and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a sleek crib with a range of mattress heights as well as an elegant, modern design.
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 not place any items in the crib of your child that could cause injury or harm such as blankets, best Crib pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. These items can easily fall into or become stuck between your baby and the crib bars or they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also comply with strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They're also designed to be durable and convertible, so they'll grow with your child.
It's crucial to choose a crib that meets current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a new or used crib. Secondhand cribs could lose structural integrity over time due to the effects of humidity, age and heavy use. This could create serious risks for your baby.
The slats of your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, as their security could be at risk. Also, don't purchase or purchase a secondhand crib that has an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for security reasons.
Style
There are a variety of design differences between cribs, despite the fact that they all must meet safety standards. Some of the differences are cosmetic, like whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced farther than others, and some can impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Some features, like finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should not be used, while others--like adjustable mattress height and wheels/casters popular with parents.
One thing to keep in mind is that the crib should be used only for infant sleep and is not an ideal place to store toys or clothes. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your registry so that friends and family can help you get one when the time comes.
Cribs come in a variety of sizes and shapes However, the ones we prefer combine style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks stunning. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified and we believe that is essential for any toxic-free product. It can be transformed into a toddler and daybed by converting it with a separate kit.
Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stately choice that can be incorporated into big nursery spaces, but it occupies more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some might find distracting. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels, which is less than half the competition, and it's not as durable as our other picks.
Another option with a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher level to help reduce colic and reflux, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress that is also a match. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top picks, and it requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's important that the mattress is at the correct level. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be fatal or dangerous. A mattress that is higher can also help protect your baby from suffocating or overheating.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. Most good cribs (please click the following web site) will also include a conversion kit so you can convert the crib into a toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer using it. It is recommended to select the crib that is tested and certified by a third-party organization. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to ensure there are no harmful chemicals or finishes present in the baby's sleeping space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the best-rated cribs available, and it's easy to put together and has a simple design that doesn't have any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than most cribs however one tester reported that her baby did well sleeping in it and remained 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 has an oval shape, which gives it a modern look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its quality and features make up for it. It can be easily converted into an infant bed or a bassinet, and it has wheels that make it easy to move. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a more child-like space for your baby and adds an elegant look to any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with a mattress. You will need to purchase a mattress separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they grow from infant to 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 be pulled or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are extremely grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they should be sure that the items are securely fastened and out of baby's reach.
We also examine how easy it is to build our top cribs for infants. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough to make it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or extensive assembly time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to assemble an modern crib, and the instructions are usually 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 years to come. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib to an infant's bed, and then a full-size mattress.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, that can be used to replace an infant bassinet during the first months, and then be converted to a toddler bed daybed, and full-size Mini Cot Bed. It's built to last and comes in a variety of colors, so you can match it to your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic alternative. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and calm them. It has a good reputation for quality, and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a great choice for those who want an affordable, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.