The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an extremely crucial piece for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the best crib, given so many designs and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a stylish crib that has a variety of mattress heights and an elegant, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your baby's crib. It is important to not place any items in your baby's crib that could potentially cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows and sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. They could slide between the crib bars or get stuck within them. They may also get taken in by the mattress.
The best baby cots cribs for infants are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also meet strict federal, state and local requirements for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). They are also designed to be tough and convertible, so they'll continue to grow with your child.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's crucial to select a crib that meets today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs could become less sturdy over time due to the effects of humidity, age and use. This could cause serious dangers to your Baby beds.
The slats on your crib should not exceed 3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secure. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their safety may have been compromised. Don't purchase or buy cribs with a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
There are a variety of different designs of cribs, despite the fact that they all must meet safety standards. Some of the differences are aesthetic, such as the slats have the same length, or are spaced closer than others, and some can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Certain features such as drop sides and finials aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also include the crib on your registry to seek assistance from family and friends in the event that you require one.
Cribs come in a variety of sizes and shapes however, the ones we prefer combine style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks stunning. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider essential for any toxic-free baby product and it's able to convert into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Some cribs sport a more traditional look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It is a stylish option that can be incorporated into larger nurseries. However, it takes more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than the number offered by competitors. It's not as sturdy as our other picks.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. The Babyletto Hudson's mesh all-around and hidden hardware improve the flow of air, and Dr. Casares believes that this is a feature that many new parents will appreciate. It can be raised to ease colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress. It's worth noting, though, that it's more expensive than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it is important that the mattress is the correct height. This will ensure that your child isn't able to climb out, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A higher mattress also helps keep your child from overheating or becoming suffocated.
A good crib sets should come with adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit is included in the majority of cribs, so that you can convert it into a daybed or toddler bed when your child is no longer in the crib. Finally, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and certified by a third-party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that the crib of your baby is free of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has an easy design and has no confusing parts. It is among the most highly-rated cribs. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one tester said that her baby slept well and that the crib was in good condition when she gave it to a friend for her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great option. It features an oval shape, which gives it a modern look. It's a little more expensive than other cribs, however its durability and features make up for it. It is able to be converted into an infant bed or a bassinet, and it has wheels to make it easy to move. It has a canopy which can be used to create an environment more akin to a womb your baby. It adds a fashionable design to any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is that it doesn't include a mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can expand with your child from a newborn to a toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Components
The safest cribs do not have chewable or dangling parts. If something is hanging over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If parents decide to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they must make sure that the items are securely attached and are out of Baby's reach.
In addition to the safety features of our best cribs for infants, we also consider how simple it is to set up. Ideally, the crib should be easy enough to do it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or a long time to assemble. The majority of parents say that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour, and the included instructions are generally clear and easy to follow.
A crib will be the most expensive purchase for new parents, which is why it's crucial to find one that will last for many years to come. Choose a crib that can be transformed from a crib into an infant's bed, and later a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet during the early years and later converted into an infant bed, a daybed or Cheap Baby cots; profiteplo.com, a full-size bed. It's built to last and comes in many colors so you can match it with the theme of your nursery's decor.
Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent alternative. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib has a low profile which makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and calm them. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors as well as natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of toxins like lead and phthalates. It also surpasses all safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing missing is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great choice for Recommended cribs those who want an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last.