The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an important piece for the nursery of your baby. However, choosing a suitable crib can be a daunting task, especially with so many different designs and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic 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 essential to stay clear of putting anything in your baby's crib that could potentially cause injury or harm such as blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. They could easily fall into or be caught between your baby and the crib bars or they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cots uk cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) And they are designed to be sustainable and convertible so they can grow with your child.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's essential to choose a crib that meets the current stringent safety standards. Secondhand cribs could become less sturdy over time due to age, humidity and use. This can pose serious risks to your baby.
The slats of your crib should not be more than 3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any broken or loose components.
It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their safety might have been compromised. Don't buy or accept a second-hand crib with an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to safety reasons.
Style
There are a variety of design differences between cribs, even though they all must meet safety standards. Some differences are purely aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Certain 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.
A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also put a crib in your registry to receive help from family and friends in the event you need help.
Cribs are available in many different styles We prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe 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.
Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a grand crib that can be incorporated into large nurseries, but it occupies more space than smaller and minimalist models, and also has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half the competition, and it's not as durable as our other picks.
Another option with a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and allow you to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can also be raised to a higher height to alleviate reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It is also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary matching mattress. It's important to remember that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler small cot beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the right level. This will ensure that your child isn't able to climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your baby from suffocation or overheating.
A quality crib will have slats or railings that are adjustable that let you raise or lower the mattress as your infant grows. A conversion kit is provided with most good cribs so that you can turn it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. It's also a good idea to select a crib which has been certified and tested by a third-party institution. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that your baby's crib is not contaminated of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the most highly-rated cribs available and it's easy to put together and has a simple design that doesn't include any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than other cribs, but one parent tester stated that her baby did well sleeping in it, and was in good shape when she passed it on to a friend following the birth of her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great alternative. It has an oval shape, which creates a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs but its quality and features make up for it. It can easily be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed and has wheels that make it easy to move. It has a canopy which can be used to create a space more like a womb for 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 need to purchase separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will adapt to your child's needs as they go from newborn to toddler.
No dangling or chewable components.
The safest cribs have no chewable or hanging components. If something is hanging above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to pull or create a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they should make sure that the items are securely secured and are not within Baby's reach.
In addition to the security features of our best infant cribs, we also look at how easy it is to assemble. Ideally, the crib should be easy enough to build it yourself and doesn't require special tools or a long time to assemble. Most parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour and the included instructions are usually simple and easy to follow.
It is essential to select a crib that will last many years. Pick a crib that can be transformed from a crib to a toddler's bed, and then a full-size mattress.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can be used as an infant bassinet during the first months, then convert to a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's built to last and comes in a variety of colors, so you can match it with the theme of your nursery's decor.
Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile that makes it easier for petite parents to touch their child and comfort their child. It also has a great reputation for quality and is available in white, cherry, espresso, and natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental protection, and it's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of harmful substances such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds government standards such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is an excellent option for cribs Beds those who are seeking a top-quality, affordable crib that will last.