The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is a very crucial piece for the nursery of your best baby cots. However, picking a suitable crib can be a daunting task particularly with the number of various styles and security concerns.

Find cribs that meet the most stringent safety standards and has no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib that has a variety of mattress heights and modern, sleek design.

Safety

Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your baby's crib. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery. This includes pillows, blankets 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. They could easily fall into or be trapped between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed by the mattress.

The best crib infant cribs are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They're also designed to last and reversible, which means they'll continue to grow with your child.

If you're buying a new crib or used, it's essential to choose cribs that meet the current stringent safety standards. Secondhand cribs can be damaged in their structural integrity due to age, humidity and frequent use, posing grave dangers to your child.

The crib's slats should be spaced no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep infants from getting wedged between them and the hardware that is on the crib should be secure. Examine the slats, mattress support rims and the hardware for any loose or damaged components.

It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, as their safety may be at risk. Also, don't purchase or buy a second-hand crib with the drop side rail which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to reasons of safety.

Style

While all cribs have to comply with strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some differences are purely cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can impact the ease to use and clean the crib. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided and others, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are desirable for many parents.

A crib is not meant to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place where babies can sleep. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your registry so that your family and friends can lend a hand to assist you in getting one when the time arrives.

Cribs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes however, the ones we prefer are those that combine style and function. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks stunning. It's 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.

Some cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a grand 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 mattress levels which is less than the competition's number. It's also not as sturdy as our other picks.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern aesthetic. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised to ease colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and the birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary mattress. It's important to remember that this bed is more expensive than other top options and requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

When your baby is sleeping in their crib, it is important that the mattress is the right height. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which could be risky or even fatal. A higher mattress also helps protect your baby from suffocating or overheating.

A quality crib will have adjustable slats or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A conversion kit comes with the majority of cribs so that you can turn it into a toddler bed or daybed once your child outgrows the crib. Finally, it's recommended cribs to select a crib sets that has been tested and certified by a third party organization to ensure safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee your baby's crib is not contaminated of chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs on the market, and it's easy to put together, with a straightforward layout that doesn't contain any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than many other models however one 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 was born.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great alternative. It features an oval shape, which creates a modern appearance. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features are worth it. For instance, it can be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed and has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It has a canopy which can be used to create an atmosphere more akin to a womb your baby. This is a chic design to any nursery.

This crib is not equipped with a mattress. You'll have to buy one separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that will grow with your child from a newborn to a toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Parts

The safest cribs are those that have no dangling or chewable components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to pull or create a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other objects, they should make sure the items are secured tightly and not in reach of Baby.

In addition to the safety features of our best cots for newborns infant cribs, we also consider how simple it is to put together. The crib should be easy enough to assemble by yourself, without the need for special tools or a lot of time. The majority of parents say that assembling a modern crib takes less than a half hour, and the included instructions are usually clear and easy to follow.

It is crucial to choose the right crib that will last for many years. To ensure longevity, you should choose an adjustable crib that will be used from the time of infancy all the way to the toddler bed, and then a larger bed.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet in the early years and later converted into an infant bed, a daybed, or a full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a range of colors which makes it easy to match with your nursery's theme.

Stork Craft Equinox is another great option. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib has a low profile which makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and soothe them. It also has a great reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white espresso, natural pine 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 the government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for a high-quality affordable crib that will last for a long time.