The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

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

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

Safety

When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is crucial to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your baby which could cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets and sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. These items can easily slide between the crib bars or be stuck within them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.

The best cot bed cribs for babies are made of materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also adhere to strict federal laws, state and local standards for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) And they are designed to last and are adaptable, so they can grow with your child.

If you're buying a new crib or used, it's crucial to choose a crib that is in line with the current stringent safety standards. Secondhand cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to humidity, age and heavy use, posing serious dangers to your baby.

The crib's slats should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secure. Check the slats, mattress support rims and hardware for any broken or loose components.

It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that were used by children or pets, as their security could be compromised. Finally, don't purchase or buy 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 security reasons.

Style

While all cribs have to meet strict safety standards, you'll find a lot of design differences. Some are just aesthetic, such as the slats have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can make it difficult to clean and use the crib. Certain features, such as drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should not be used as well. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are highly sought-after by many parents.

One thing to be aware of is that a crib is meant only for infant sleep It's not an ideal place to store toys or clothes. It's also an excellent idea to include the crib on your list to ensure that family and friends can pitch in to help you purchase one when the time comes.

Cribs come in a variety of shapes and sizes however, the ones we like best are those that combine style and function. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified, which we think is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be turned into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.

Other cribs have more traditional designs like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It is a stylish option that can fit in large nurseries. However, it takes more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half of the other options, and it's not as sturdy as some of our other picks.

Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's all-round mesh and hidden hardware enhance airflow, and Dr. Casares believes that this is a feature that many new parents will consider important. It can be raised higher to alleviate colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and the birth. It is also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a mattress that is also a match. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than the other top options, and it requires a separate conversion kit for toddler cot beds for sale.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is essential that the mattress on your baby's crib is the right height. This ensures that your child isn't able to climb out, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your baby from overheating or suffocation.

A good crib 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 provided with most good cribs to allow you to convert it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. Finally, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and approved 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 is one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's easy to put together and features a simple layout that doesn't contain any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than many other models however, one user said that her child did well sleeping in it, and was in good shape when she passed it on to a relative after the birth of her second child.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic option. It features an oval shape that gives it a contemporary look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, however its durability and features make up for it. It can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or bassinet, Cots Offers and it has wheels that make it easy to move. It comes with a canopy that can be used to create an atmosphere more akin to a womb your baby. This adds a stylish design to any nursery.

The only drawback to this crib is that it doesn't include a mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can expand with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Parts

The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hung over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to pull or cause strangulation. Babies are extremely grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they should be sure that the items are securely secured and are out of Baby beds's reach.

In addition to the safety features of our top cribs for babies, we look at how easy it is to put together. The ideal crib will be easy enough to build it yourself and doesn't require special tools or extensive assembly time. Most parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour and the instructions included are usually clear and easy to follow.

It is essential to select the right crib that will last for many years. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib to an infant's bed, and then a full-size mattress.

Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, that can be used to replace the bassinet in the early months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. It's made for long-term use and is available in a variety of colors, making it easy to match your nursery's theme.

Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to touch their child and comfort their child. It has a good reputation for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso 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 exceeds the safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those looking for a high-quality, affordable crib that will last for a long time.