The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the best crib for newborn Infant Cribs
The crib is a very crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. However, choosing a suitable crib can be overwhelming, especially with so many different designs and safety concerns.
Look for cribs that meet the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a stylish crib with a variety of mattress heights as well as modern, sleek design.
Safety
When assembling and positioning your baby's crib make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is essential to not place any items in the crib of your baby which could cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows, sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls, and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items could easily fall between your baby's crib bars or be trapped in them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.
The best cots for newborns cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also comply with strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They are also designed to last and convertible, meaning they'll continue to grow with your child.
It's important that you choose a crib that meets current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs can lose structural integrity over time due to the effects of humidity, age and frequent use. This can pose serious risks to your baby.
The slats on your crib should be no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent children from being wedged between them and the hardware that is on the crib should be secure. 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 pets or children in the past, since their safety may be at risk. Do not purchase or purchase a crib with a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
There are many different designs of cribs, despite the fact that they all must meet safety standards. Some are just cosmetic, like the slats have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others can make it difficult to clean and use the crib. Some features like drop sides and finials aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are desirable by a lot of parents.
One thing to keep in mind is that a crib is meant only for infant sleep It's not an area to store toys or clothes. It's also an excellent idea to include the crib on your list so that your family and friends can pitch in to help you purchase one when the time arrives.
Cribs come in many different styles, but we prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified, which we think is essential for any product that is free of toxics. It can be converted into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.
Other cribs have an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that is a good fit for big nursery spaces, but it takes up more space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half of the alternatives and it's not as sturdy as some of our other options.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance 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 raised to a higher position to help reduce colic and reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is essential that the mattress on your baby's crib is of the correct height. This ensures that your child isn't able to climb out and fall, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your child from suffocation or overheating.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit comes with most good cribs so that you can turn it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. It is recommended to pick a crib which is tested and certified by a third-party organization. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your Baby Crib's crib is not contaminated of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features a simple design and no confusing parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than other cribs however, one user reported that her baby did well sleeping in it and remained in good shape when she gave it to a friend after her second child was born.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic alternative. It features an oval shape which creates a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than most cribs, but it's durable and comes with numerous features that make up the price. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet, or a toddler bed, and it is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It also has 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. It's a secure, comfortable crib that will adapt to your child's needs as they grow from infant to toddler.
No Chewable or Dangling Parts
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hung above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to be pulled or cause strangulation. Babies are extremely grabbing. If parents decorate their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should make sure the items are secured tightly and aren't in the reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our best infant cribs, we also look at how easy it is to put together. The ideal crib will be easy enough to be able to make it yourself and doesn't require special tools or extensive assembly time. The majority of parents say that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour, and the instructions included are generally clear and easy to follow.
It is essential to select the right crib that will last for many years. For long-lasting use, choose a convertible crib that can start at the beginning of your child's life all the way up to the toddler Cot Bed, and then a full-size bed.
Our top pick for a 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 later convert to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. It's designed to last for a long time and is available in a variety of colors that make it easy to match your nursery design theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent alternative. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a low profile that allows parents who are small to touch their child and comfort them. It has a good reputation for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso 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 exceeds the standards of government agencies such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail, that you can purchase separately. This is a great choice for those who are looking for a high-quality affordable crib that will last.