The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the best infant cribs (click now)
A crib is one of the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. It can be difficult to choose the ideal crib, due to so many designs and safety concerns.
Look for cribs that meet the most stringent safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a stylish crib with a variety of mattress sizes and a sleek, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your crib for your child. It is important to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could cause injury or harm such as blankets, pillows, sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. These items can easily fall into or become trapped between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cot bed cribs for babies are made of materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). And they are designed to be sustainable and adaptable, so they can grow with your child.
No matter if you're buying new or used, it's important to choose a crib that meets today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose serious risks to your infant.
The slats of your crib should be spaced no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware on the crib must be secured. Check the slats, mattress support rims and the hardware for any broken or loose components.
It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their security could have been compromised. Don't buy or accept a crib with a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
There are many variations in the design of cribs, even though they all have to meet safety standards. Some are simply aesthetic, such as whether the slats are all identical in length or are spaced closer than others and others have an impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Certain features, like finials and drop sides are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like adjustable mattress height and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.
A crib isn't designed to be used for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also put the crib on your registry to get help from family and friends when you need one.
Cribs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes however, the ones we love best are those that combine style and function. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is essential for any toxic-free product. It can be converted into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.
Some cribs sport an older-style look, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a classy crib that fits well into large nursery spaces, however it occupies more floor space than the smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels, which is less than half the alternatives, and it's not as durable as our other options.
Another option with contemporary design 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 a lot of new parents. It can also be raised to a higher height to help reduce colic and reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary matching mattress. It's important to note, however, that it's more expensive than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is crucial that the crib mattress of your baby is at the correct height. This ensures that your child doesn't fall out and fall, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your baby from overheating or suffocation.
A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit is provided with the majority of cribs so that you can convert it into a toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer in the crib. It is also a good idea for you to choose 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 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 confusing parts or pieces. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one parent tester said that her baby slept well and that the crib was in good condition when she gave it to a relative for her second cheap baby cots.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary style. It's more expensive than other cribs, however it's durable and comes with a number of features to make up for the price. It can easily be converted into an infant bed or a bassinet and has wheels that make it easy to move around. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a like a womb for your baby. It's also a stylish touch to any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with mattresses. You will need to purchase one separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from newborn to toddler.
No dangling or chewable components.
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to pull or create 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 secured tightly and not in reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our best infant cribs, we also consider how simple it is to put together. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough that you can do it yourself, and doesn't require any special tools or Baby Cot Bed extensive assembly time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to assemble an modern crib, and the instructions are generally simple to follow.
A crib is the most expensive purchase for new parents, so it's important to find one that will last for years to be. For long-lasting use, choose an adjustable crib that will work from infancy all the way up to an adult bed and then a full-size bed.
Our top pick for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace a bassinet for those early months, and then be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. It's built to last and is available in a variety of colors so that you can match it with your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for parents with small hands to touch their child and comfort them. It is well-known for quality, and comes in white, cherry and espresso 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 surpasses standards set by the government such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing missing is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last.