The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the best infant cribs (More Bonuses)
A crib is among the most essential items for your baby's nursery. However, picking a suitable crib can be overwhelming especially when you consider the many different designs and security concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, and no dangling or chewable parts. We also suggest a crib that has a broad selection of mattress heights and a sleek design that is in line with your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your crib for your child. It is crucial to not place any items in the crib of your child which could cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows and sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could fall between your baby's crib bars or get stuck in them. They may also be taken in by the mattress.
The best rated cribs infant cribs are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also meet strict federal laws, local and state standards for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). They're designed to be durable and adaptable, so they can adapt to your child's needs.
It's crucial to choose a crib that meets current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to age, humidity and frequent use, posing serious dangers to your baby.
The slats of your crib should not exceed 3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secured. It's also a good idea to check the slats and mattress support rims for any loose or broken components.
It's also recommended cribs to avoid using cribs that were used by other children or pets, as their safety could be compromised. Don't buy or buy a secondhand crib that has a drop side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 cot beds for sale security reasons.
Style
There are a variety of different designs of cribs, even though they all have to meet safety standards. Some are just aesthetic, such as whether the slats are all identical in length or are spaced closer apart and others have a real impact on the ease of the crib to maintain and use. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided and others, like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are desirable for many parents.
One thing to keep in mind is that the crib should be used exclusively for sleeping infants It's not a place to store clothes or toys. You can also include the crib on your registry to seek help from friends and family in the event that you require one.
Cribs come in all shapes and sizes However, the ones we love best are those that combine style and function. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD gold certified and we believe that is a must for any product that is free of toxics. It can be converted into a daybed and toddler with a separate conversion kit.
Some cribs sport an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a classy crib that is a good fit for large nurseries, but it occupies more floor space than the smaller and minimalist models, and also has exposed hardware that some find distracting. It has only three mattress levels, which is half the number of competitors. It's not as sturdy as our other picks.
Another option that has contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher level to ease colic and reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's worth noting, however it's more costly than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is the right level. This will ensure that your child doesn't fall out, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help keep your child from overheating or suffocating.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit is provided with most good cribs so that you can turn it into a daybed or toddler bed when your child is no longer in the crib. It is recommended to pick the crib that has been certified and tested by a third-party organisation. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that your baby's crib is free of any 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 shorter than the other models. However, one parent tester reported that her child slept well and the crib was still in good shape when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic option. It has an oval shape which gives it a contemporary look. It's a bit more expensive than most cribs, but it is durable and has many options to make up the cost. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet or a toddler bed, and it comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create an environment more akin to a womb your baby. This adds a stylish touch in any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is that it doesn't come with a mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they grow from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable 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 over or above their crib it could tug against the rails or create an injury to strangulation. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should ensure that the items are secured tightly and not in reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our top cribs for babies, we take into consideration how easy it is to put together. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough to be able to do it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or extensive assembly time. Most parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than a half hour, and the included instructions are usually clear and easy to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, which is why it's crucial to find one that will last for many years to come. For longevity, opt for an adjustable crib that will be used from the time of infancy until an adult bed and then an adult-sized bed.
Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can be used as the bassinet in the early months, and then be converted to a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a range of colors that make it easy to match your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimalist-style crib is low-profile to ensure that parents with small feet can touch their child to calm 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 surpasses all safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing not included is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great option for Best Cot Newborn those who want an affordable, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.