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 particularly with the number of various styles and security concerns.
Find a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a stylish crib with a range of mattress heights as well as modern, sleek design.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. 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 can easily slide between the crib bars or become trapped in them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for babies are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also comply with strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They are also designed to be tough and convertible, so they can grow along with your child.
It's important that you choose cribs that meet current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may lose their structural integrity due to humidity, age and prolonged use, which can pose grave dangers to your child.
The slats on your crib should be no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep children from being wedged between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secure. It's also a good idea to examine the slats and mattress support rims for any loose or broken parts.
It's best to avoid recommended cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, as their safety could be at risk. Don't purchase or buy the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
Although all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some are purely aesthetic, such as whether the slats are of identical in length or are spaced closer apart and others have a significant impact on how easy the crib is to use and maintain. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should not be used, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are popular with parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place for babies to sleep. You can also include a crib in your registry to receive help from friends and family when you need one.
Cribs come in all shapes and sizes however, the ones we love best crib newborn are those that combine style and function. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks gorgeous. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider essential for any baby product that is non-toxic, and it can convert into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs sport an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a stylish choice that will fit into large nurseries. However, it takes more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. Moreover, it only has three levels of mattress height, which is less than half of the other options and isn't as sturdy as our other options.
Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and make it easier to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher position to help reduce colic and reflux, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes an additional mattress. It's important to note, however it's more expensive than our other top rated cots picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is essential that the mattress on your baby's crib is of the correct height. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which could be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your baby from suffocation or overheating.
A quality crib will include slats that can be adjusted or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your infant grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit that allows you can convert the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed when your child is no longer using it. Finally, it's a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third-party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is free of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the best-rated cribs on the market, and it's easy to put together, with a straightforward layout that doesn't contain any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are smaller than the other models. However, one test subject said that their baby slept well and that the crib was in good shape when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great alternative. It has an oval shape, which creates a modern appearance. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, however its durability and features are worth it. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler cot bed sales and comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It also adds an elegant touch to any nursery.
The only drawback to this crib is that it doesn't come with an additional mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that can grow with your child as they grow from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Components
The safest cribs are those that have no dangling or chewable components. Babies like to grab objects, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them, it could tug against the rails or create a strangulation hazard. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other objects, they should ensure that the items are secured tightly and aren't in the reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our best cribs for infants, we also consider how simple it is to set up. The crib should be easy enough to assemble by yourself, without the need for special tools or spending a large amount of time. Many parents report that it takes less than an hour to put together an modern crib, and the instructions are generally simple 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. For longevity, opt for a convertible crib that can be used from the time of infancy until an adult bed and then a larger bed.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet in the early months and then transformed into an infant Mini Cot Bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It's made for long-term use and is available in a variety of colors that make it easy to match your nursery design theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and soothe them. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and is available in white, cherry, espresso, and natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of toxins like lead and phthalates. It also far exceeds government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing lacking is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last for a long time.