How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an extremely essential piece of furniture for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable crib can be overwhelming especially when you consider the many various styles and security concerns.
Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a sleek crib that has a variety of mattress heights and an elegant, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your crib for your child. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in the nursery of your baby. This includes blankets, pillows, and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could easily fall into or be stuck between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also comply with strict federal and state standards for structural safety. They're also third-party tested to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They're also designed to last and reversible, which means they can grow along with your child.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's important to select a crib that is in line with today's rigorous safety standards. Used cribs can become less sturdy over time due to age, humidity and use. This can create serious risks for your baby.
The crib's slats should not exceed 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secured. Check the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any broken or loose components.
It's also wise to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their safety could be at risk. Do not purchase or purchase the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
Although all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, you'll find many design differences. Some are just cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Some features like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib isn't designed to be used for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be an area where babies can sleep. You can also put a crib on your registry to get assistance from family and friends in the event that you require one.
Cribs are available in a variety of different styles, but we prefer those that combine design and function. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be converted into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.
Other cribs have more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It is a stylish option that can be incorporated into larger nurseries. However, it takes up more space than smaller minimalist options. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half of the alternatives and isn't as sturdy as some of our other options.
Another option that has modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's all-round mesh and hidden hardware enhance airflow, and Dr. Casares believes that this is an attribute that new parents consider important. It can be raised higher to alleviate colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices, and it requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is essential that the mattress on your baby's crib is the right height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help protect your baby from suffocating or overheating.
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 majority of cribs include a conversion kit that allows you can transform the crib into a toddler bed or daybed after your baby outgrows it. Finally, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third-party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. best cot beds that your baby's crib is not contaminated of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's simple to put together and has a simple design that doesn't have any jarring pieces or parts. The crib's sides are shorter than those of other cribs. However, one tester said that her baby slept well and that the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend for her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic alternative. It features an oval shape, which creates a modern appearance. It's more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it's durable and comes with a number of features that make up the cost. It is able to be transformed into a toddler bed or bassinet and has wheels to make it easy to move. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more like a womb for your baby and adds a stylish touch to any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is it doesn't have a mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that can grow with your child from a newborn to a toddler.
There are no dangling or chewable ingredients.
The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grasp objects, and if something is hanging over or above their crib it could pull against the rails or create a strangulation hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other decorative items, they must ensure that the items are secured tightly and not in reach of Baby.
We also look at how easy it is to build our top cribs for infants. The ideal crib will be easy enough that you can do it yourself and doesn't require special tools or extensive assembly time. Most parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour, and the instructions included are generally clear and easy to follow.
It is essential to select the right crib that will last for many years. Pick a crib that can be converted from a crib to a toddler's bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the beginning, and later converted into an infant bed, a daybed or a large bed. It is designed to last and comes in many colors so you can match it with your nursery's design theme.
Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile that makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and calm their child. It also has a great reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors as well as 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 toxins like lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds the standards of government agencies such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great option for those looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.