How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an essential piece of furniture for the nursery of your baby. It isn't easy to pick the right crib, with numerous styles and safety concerns.
Choose cribs that meet the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a crib with a broad choice of mattress heights and a sleek design that complements your style.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Baby Crib is important to avoid putting any items in the crib of your child that could cause injury or harm, including pillows, blankets and sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. They could easily fall into or become caught between your baby and the crib bars or they could be engulfed by the mattress.
The best cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also meet strict federal laws, local and state standards for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They're also designed to be durable and convertible, so they'll continue to grow with your child.
It's important that you choose cribs that meet current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to humidity, age and heavy use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The crib's slats should not be longer than 3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secured. Examine the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, since their safety could have been compromised. Do not purchase or purchase cribs with a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
Although all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, there are numerous design variations. Some are just aesthetic, such as whether the slats are all identical in length or are spaced closer together, while others have a real impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Certain features, like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.
One important thing to remember is that the crib should be used only for infant sleep, so it's not an ideal place to store toys or clothes. It's also recommended to put a crib on your registry to ensure that family and friends can lend a hand to assist you in getting one when the time arrives.
Cribs are available in many different styles We prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and looks sharp. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider essential for any baby product that is non-toxic and it's able to convert into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stylish choice that will fit into large nursery. However, it takes more space than smaller minimalist options. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels which is less than half the alternatives and it's not as sturdy as some of our other picks.
Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's all-round mesh and hidden hardware enhance airflow and Dr. Casares believes that this is a feature that many new parents will appreciate. It can also be raised to a higher position to ease colic and reflux which makes it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress. It's worth noting, though it's more costly than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's important that the mattress is the right height. This ensures that your child can't climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also safeguard your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. A majority of cribs come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your little one outgrows it. It's also a good idea to pick the crib that is tested and certified by a third-party institution. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to ensure there aren't any chemicals or finishes in your baby's sleep space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has an easy design and has no confusing parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are shorter than many other models, but one parent tester stated that her baby was comfortable in it and was still in good condition when she passed it on to a friend after her second child.
Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a modern appearance. It's a little more expensive than other cribs but its durability and features are worth it. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed and comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a more like a womb for your baby. It also adds a stylish touch to any nursery.
This crib does not come with a mattress. You will need to buy one separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they go from newborn to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Components
The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to be pulled or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should ensure that they secure the items and aren't in the reach of Baby.
In addition to the security features of our best infant cribs, we also look at how easy it is to assemble. Baby beds should be easy enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or a long amount of time. Many parents report that it takes less than an hour to assemble an modern crib, and the instructions are usually easy to follow.
A crib is an important purchase for many new parents, so it's crucial to find one that will last for a long time to come. For long-lasting use, choose an adjustable crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life all the way to an adult bed and then a larger bed.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can be used as a bassinet for those early months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It is designed to last and is available in a variety of colors, so you can match it to the theme of your nursery's decor.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib is low-profile that allows parents who are small to reach their child and soothe their child. It also has a good reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white espresso, 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 government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail which you can buy separately. This is a good option for those looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last for a long time.