How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential items for your baby's nursery. It can be difficult to choose the best crib, given numerous styles and safety concerns.
Search for a crib with the most stringent safety standards, including no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a crib with a broad selection of mattress heights and a sleek design that complements your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your baby's crib. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items could easily fall between your baby's crib bars or be trapped in them. They may also be taken up by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations for structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They are also designed to last and convertible, so they'll continue to grow with your child.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's crucial to select cribs that meet today's rigorous safety standards. Used cribs may lose their structural integrity due to aging, humidity 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 secured. Check the slats, mattress support rims and hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, as their security could be at risk. 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
Although all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some differences are purely aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should be avoided as well. Other features, such as adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are desirable for many parents.
A crib isn't designed to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's intended to be an area where babies can sleep. You can also put the crib on your registry to get assistance from family and friends in the event that you require one.
Cribs come in all sizes and shapes However, the ones we prefer combine style and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and stylish. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified which we believe is a must for any toxic-free product. It can be transformed into a toddler and daybed by converting it with a separate kit.
Some cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a grand crib that fits well into big nursery spaces, but it takes up more space than smaller and minimalist models, and also has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than the number offered by competitors. It's also not as durable as our other choices.
Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be raised to a higher level to ease colic and reflux which makes it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with an additional mattress. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than other top choices, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is crucial that the crib mattress of your baby is the right height. This will ensure that your child doesn't fall out, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A good crib will have adjustable slats or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit so you can turn the crib into a toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer using it. It's an excellent idea to select a crib which is tested and certified by a third-party organization. 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 any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features simple design and doesn't have confusing parts. It is among the top cribs. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than most cribs, but one parent tester stated that her baby slept well in it and remained in good condition when she passed it on to a friend following the birth of her second child was born.
Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern style. It's a bit more costly than most cribs, but it's sturdy and comes with many options to make up the price. It is able to be transformed into a toddler bed or bassinet and has wheels to 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 look to any nursery.
This crib does not come with mattresses. You will need to purchase one separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will adapt to your child's needs as they go from newborn to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The safest cribs have no chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to be pulled or create a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If parents decorate their crib with toys or decorative items, they must make sure the items are secured tightly and aren't in the reach of Baby.
In addition to the security features of our top cribs for babies, we consider how simple it is to put together. The ideal crib will be easy enough that you can do it yourself and doesn't require special tools or a long time to assemble. Most parents report that it takes less than an hour to assemble a modern crib, and the instructions are usually easy to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, which is why it is essential to choose one that will last for many years to be. Pick a crib that can be transformed from a crib into a toddler's bed, and then a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet in the early months and then converted into an infant bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It is designed to last and comes in a variety of colors so that you can match it to the theme of your nursery's decor.
Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic alternative. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a low profile which makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and calm them. It is renowned for its quality, and is available in white, cherry and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety, and it's made from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds government standards such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. full report missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a good option for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.