How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is among the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to pick the right crib, cribs with so many designs and safety concerns.

Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, with no dangling or chewable parts. We also suggest a crib with a wide selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that matches your style.

Safety

When assembling and positioning your baby's crib, be sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any objects 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 bigger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items can easily fall between your baby's crib bars or be stuck within them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.

The best cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certs!). They're also designed to last and are flexible, allowing them to grow with your child.

If you're buying a new crib or used, it's crucial to choose cribs that meet today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs could be weakened in the course of time due to the effects of humidity, age and heavy use. This can cause serious dangers to your baby.

The slats on your crib should not exceed 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware must be secured. It's also a good idea to check the slats and mattress support rims for broken or loose parts.

It is best to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their safety may be at risk. Don't buy or accept the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.

Style

While all cribs have to comply with strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some of the differences are aesthetic, such as the slats have the same length or are spaced further than others, and some can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Certain features, such as drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should be avoided, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are desirable for many parents.

One thing to be aware of is that a crib is meant exclusively for sleeping infants and is not an area to store toys or clothes. It's also an excellent idea to include a crib on your registry so that friends and family can pitch in to assist you in getting one when the time arrives.

Cribs come in many different styles, but we prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks great. It's also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is essential for any product that is free of toxics. It can be turned into a daybed and toddler with a separate conversion kit.

Some cribs feature more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a chic option that can fit in large nursery. However, it takes more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives. Furthermore, it only has three levels of mattress height, best Crib which is less than half the alternatives, cots and tots it's not as durable as our other choices.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to observe baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised to ease colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and birth. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress. It's worth noting, however it's more costly than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is crucial that your baby's crib mattress is at the correct height. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your baby from heat exhaustion or suffocation.

A quality crib should have slats or railings that are adjustable that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can convert the crib into the toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. It is recommended for you to choose a crib which is tested and certified by a third-party organisation. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is free of any chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features simple design and doesn't have complicated parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than many other models however, one user said that her child did well sleeping in it and remained in good condition when she gave it to a friend following the birth of her second child.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a contemporary appearance. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its quality and features are worth it. For instance, Baby Crib it can be transformed into a bassinet, or a toddler bed, and it is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a like a womb for your baby and adds a stylish touch to any nursery.

The only issue with this crib is that it doesn't come with mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from newborn to toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Parts

The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are extremely grabbing. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should make sure the items are securely secured and aren't in the reach of Baby.

In addition to the safety features of our best cribs for infants, we also take into consideration how easy it is to put together. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough to be able to make it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or a long time to assemble. Many parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour and the instructions included are usually simple and easy to follow.

A crib will be the most expensive purchase for new parents, and it's crucial to find one that will last for many years to be. To ensure longevity, you should choose a convertible crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life 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, that can be used to replace an infant bassinet during the first months, and later convert to a toddler bed daybed, and full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a range of colors, Cot Bed (https://scenep2p.com) making it easy to match your nursery design theme.

Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that allows parents with small hands to reach their child and soothe them. It also has a great reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry, espresso, and natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of toxins like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail, that you can purchase separately. This is a great choice for those who are seeking a top-quality crib that is affordable and built to last.