The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is an extremely crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. It isn't easy to pick the right crib, with so many designs and safety concerns.

Look for a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib that has a variety of mattress heights and a sleek, modern design.

Safety

When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, make sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to stay clear of putting anything in your cheap baby cots's crib that could cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets, sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches are not allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. They could easily fall into or get trapped between your Baby Cot Bed and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed by the mattress.

The best cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal, state and local requirements for structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). They're also designed to last and convertible, meaning they can grow along with your child.

It is essential to select cribs that meet current safety standards, no matter if you're buying a brand new or used crib. Used cribs can lose structural integrity over time due to humidity, age and use. This could pose serious risks to your baby.

The slats on your crib should not be longer than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any loose or damaged components.

It's best to avoid cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their safety could have been compromised. Also, don't purchase or accept a second-hand crib with the drop side rail which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to safety reasons.

Style

While all cribs have to adhere to strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some are just cosmetic, like whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can impact the ease to use and clean the crib. Some features, like finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should not be used and others, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are highly sought-after by many parents.

One thing to be aware of is that a crib is meant solely for sleep for infants, so it's not an ideal place to store toys or clothes. You can also put a crib in your registry to seek help from family and friends in the event that you require one.

Cribs come in all sizes and shapes, but the ones we prefer combine style and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified, which we think is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be transformed to a daybed or toddler by converting it with a separate kit.

Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a chic option that will fit into large nurseries. However, it takes up more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives. It only has three mattress levels which is a fraction of the competition's number. It's not as durable as our other choices.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a modern design. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve 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 be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than other top options and requires a separate conversion kit for toddler cot beds for sale.

Adjustable Mattress Height

If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's important that the mattress is at the correct level. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also safeguard your child from suffocation or overheating.

A quality crib should include slats that can be adjusted or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. A majority of cribs come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your little one outgrows it. It's an excellent idea 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 that means it has been tested to ensure that there are no harmful chemical or other finishes in the crib where your baby sleeps.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the top-rated cribs available and it's easy to assemble and has a simple design that doesn't include any complicated pieces or parts. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one parent test subject said that their child was sleeping well and the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend as her second child.

Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary appearance. It's more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it is durable and has numerous features to make up for the price. It is able to be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed and has wheels that make it easy to move around. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a like a womb for your baby. It also adds an elegant touch to any nursery.

The only drawback to this crib is it doesn't have mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that will be adapted to your child's needs from newborn to toddler.

No Chewable or Dangling Parts

The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies like to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging from or above their crib, it could snag off the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should make sure the items are securely secured and not in reach of Baby.

We also look at how easy it is to build our top cribs for infants. The ideal crib will be simple enough to be able to do it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or extensive assembly time. The majority of parents say it takes less than an hour to put together the modern crib, and the instructions are generally easy to follow.

It is essential to select the right crib that will last for many years. To ensure longevity, you should choose an adjustable crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life all the way to the toddler bed, and then an adult-sized bed.

Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace the bassinet in the early months, and then be converted to a toddler bed daybed, and full-size bed. It is designed to last and comes in a variety of colors so that you can match it with your nursery's design theme.

Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile so that parents with small feet can reach their child to comfort them. It also has a good reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white, 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 from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also surpasses all government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great choice for those who are seeking a top-quality crib that is affordable and built to last.