The 10 Most Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the best infant cribs (other)

The crib is a very important piece for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable crib can be a daunting task especially when you consider the many different styles and security concerns.

Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a crib that has a broad choice of mattress heights and a modern design that complements your style.

Safety

Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your crib for your child. Avoid placing any objects 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 other stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches are not allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items can easily fall into or become stuck between your baby and the crib bars, or be swallowed by the mattress.

The most suitable cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also third-party tested to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) And they are designed to last and are adaptable, so they can expand with your child.

Whether you're buying new or used, it's crucial to choose a crib that meets the current stringent safety standards. Secondhand cribs may lose their structural integrity due to humidity, age and frequent use, posing serious risks to your infant.

The slats on your crib should not be more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent children from being wedged between them and the hardware on the crib must be secured. It's an excellent idea to inspect the mattress support rims and slats for broken or loose parts.

It's also recommended to avoid using cribs that were used by other children or pets, as their safety might be at risk. Also, don't purchase or accept a secondhand crib that has an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to safety reasons.

Style

Although all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, there are a lot of design differences. Some are purely aesthetic, like whether the slats are of identical in length or are spaced closer together and others have a significant impact on the ease of the crib to operate and maintain. Certain features such as drop sides and finials aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, like adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by a lot of parents.

One thing to be aware of is that the crib should be used solely for sleep for infants and is not a place to store toys or clothing. You can also include a crib on your registry to seek help from friends and family when you need one.

Cribs are available in a variety of shapes tots and cots sizes however, the ones we love best have a mix of style and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is a must for any product that is free of toxics. It can be turned into a daybed and toddler with a separate conversion kit.

Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a chic option that will fit into large nurseries. However, it occupies more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half of the alternatives and it's not as sturdy as some of our other picks.

Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised higher to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies between 6 months and the birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a matching mattress. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than other top choices and requires a separate conversion kit for toddler cot beds for sale.

Adjustable Mattress Height

If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the right level. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which could be dangerous or fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your child from suffocation or overheating.

A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise or lower it as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit that allows you can convert the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your little one outgrows it. It's also a good idea to choose 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. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is not contaminated of any chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the best-rated cribs available, and it's simple to put together, with a straightforward layout that doesn't contain any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than many other models, but one parent tester reported that her baby was comfortable in it and was still in good shape when she gave it to a friend after her second child.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary appearance. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features make up for it. It can be easily converted into an infant bed or a bassinet and comes with wheels that make it easy to move around. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It also adds a stylish touch to any nursery.

The crib doesn't come with mattresses. You'll 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 are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or pose a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other items, they must ensure that they secure the items and aren't in the reach of Baby.

We also consider how easy it is to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or spending a long amount of time. Many parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together an modern crib, and the directions are generally easy to follow.

A crib is an important purchase for many new parents, which is why it's crucial to find one that will last for years to be. For longevity, opt for a convertible crib that will work from infancy all the way to an adult bed and then an adult-sized bed.

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, 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, making it easy to match with your nursery's theme.

Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib is low-profile which makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and soothe them. It is renowned for its quality, and is available in cherry, white and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also surpasses all safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and Cheap Baby Cots JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a good option for those who want an affordable, high-quality crib that will last.