How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is a very crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable crib can be overwhelming particularly with the number of different styles and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a sleek crib that has a variety of mattress sizes and a sleek, modern design.
Safety
When assembling and positioning your baby's crib, be sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery. This includes pillows, blankets and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. They could fall between your baby's crib bars or get stuck in them. They may also be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also meet strict federal and state standards for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They are also designed to be durable and reversible, which means they'll continue to grow with your child.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's essential to select a crib that is in line with the current stringent safety standards. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to age, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose serious dangers to your baby.
The slats on your crib should be spaced no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep children from being wedged between them and the hardware that is on the crib must be secured. It's also a good idea to check the slats and mattress support rims for any loose or broken components.
It's also wise to stay clear of cribs that were used by other children and/or pets, as their security might be compromised. Don't purchase or buy cribs with a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
There are a variety of design differences between cribs, despite the fact that they all have to meet safety standards. Some of the differences are cosmetic, like whether the slats all have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others could impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Certain features, like finials and drop sides are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, like adjustable mattress height and wheels, are desirable by many parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be an area where babies can sleep. You can also include a crib on your registry to receive help from friends and family in the event that you require one.
Cribs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the ones we prefer combine style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks stunning. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider essential for any toxic-free baby product and can be converted into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Other cribs have an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a classy crib that can be incorporated into big nursery spaces, but it takes up more space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some find distracting. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half the competition, and it's not as sturdy as our other options.
Another option that has contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and allow you to observe 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 is suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary mattress. cot bed sales to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is important that your baby's crib mattress is at the correct height. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which could be fatal or dangerous. A mattress that is higher can also help keep your child from overheating or becoming suffocated.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit is included with most good cribs so that you can convert it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. It's also best to choose a crib that has been tested and approved by a third-party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee your baby's crib is free of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features a simple design and no confusing parts. It is one of the top cribs. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one tester said that her child was sleeping well and the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend for her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic option. It features an oval shape that gives it a contemporary look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its quality and features are worth it. It can be easily transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed and has wheels to make it easy to move around. It has a canopy which can be used to create an atmosphere that resembles a womb for your baby. This adds a stylish design to any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with a mattress. You will need to purchase a mattress separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that will expand with your child from newborn to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If best crib newborn is hanging above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or create a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other items, they must make sure they secure the items and aren't in the reach of Baby.
We also look at how easy it is to build our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble yourself, without the need for special tools or spending a large amount of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than an hour to put together a modern crib, and the instructions are usually easy to follow.
It is crucial to choose a crib that will last many years. Choose a crib that can be converted from a crib to an infant's bed, and then a full-size mattress.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can replace the bassinet in the early months, then convert into 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 your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib has a low profile that allows petite parents to reach their child and soothe their child. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors as well as natural pine 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 exceeds government standards such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that's missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a great option for those looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last.