The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the best cot bed infant cribs (official Page blog)
A crib is among the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the ideal crib, due to numerous styles and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling parts. We recommend a crib that has a broad selection of mattress heights and a sleek design that is in line with your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your child's crib. It is essential to not place any items in the crib of your child that could potentially cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. They could easily fall into or become trapped between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be engulfed 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 comply with strict federal laws, local and state requirements for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They are also designed to be durable and convertible, meaning they can grow along with your child.
It is essential to select cribs that meet current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can be damaged in their structural integrity due to humidity, age and frequent use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The slats on 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 should be secure. It's also a good idea to examine the slats and the rims of the mattress support for broken or loose parts.
It's also wise to stay clear of cribs that were used by other children or pets, as their security may have been compromised. Don't purchase or buy cribs with a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
There are a lot of different designs of cribs, even though they all must meet safety standards. Some are just aesthetic, such as if 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 use and maintain. Certain features such as drop sides and finials are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, like the adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also put the crib on your registry to seek help from friends and family in the event you need help.
Cribs are available in a variety of different styles However, we prefer those that combine style with functionality. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is a must-have for any product that is free of toxics and can be converted into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Other cribs have an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It is a stylish option that can be incorporated into larger nursery. However, it takes more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. Additionally, it has only three levels of mattress height, which is less than half of the competition and isn't as sturdy as some of our other options.
Another option with a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's mesh all-around and hidden hardware enhance airflow, and Dr. Casares believes that this is an attribute that many new parents will find important. It can be raised higher to relieve reflux and colic. This is suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to note, however it's more costly than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is crucial that your baby's crib mattress is at the correct height. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A higher mattress also helps keep your child from overheating or becoming suffocated.
A quality crib should include slats that can be adjusted or railings to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your infant grows. The majority of cribs beds come with a conversion kit, so you can transform the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your Baby Cot Bed outgrows it. It's recommended for you to choose a crib which has been certified and tested by a third-party organization. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification that means it has been tested to ensure that there are no harmful chemical or other finishes in the crib where your baby sleeps.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the best-rated cribs available and it's simple to put together and features a simple layout that doesn't contain any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are smaller than other models. However, one test subject said that their child slept well and the crib was still in good shape when she gave it to a friend for her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It features an oval shape which creates a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, but its quality and features make up for it. For example, it can be converted 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 has a canopy that can be used to create an atmosphere that resembles a womb for your baby. This is a chic touch in any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is it doesn't have mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that can grow with your child from newborn to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The safest cribs are those that are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies like to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging over or above their crib, it could tug off the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they should ensure that the items are securely secured and are not within Baby's reach.
In addition to the safety features of our top cribs for infants, we also look at how easy it is to assemble. The crib should be easy enough to assemble by yourself, without the need for special tools or spending a lot of time. Many parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour and the instructions included are usually simple and easy to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, and it's important to find one that will last for years to come. Select a crib that is able to be transformed from a crib into an infant's bed, and later a full-size mattress.
Our top pick for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can be used as a bassinet for those 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 variety of colors that make it easy to match your nursery 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 which makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and soothe them. It has a good reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the standards of government agencies like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those who are seeking a top-quality, affordable crib that will last for a long time.