How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an crucial piece for your baby's nursery. However, picking a suitable crib can be a daunting task especially when you consider the many different styles and safety concerns.
Look for cribs that meet the highest safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a crib with a broad choice of mattress heights and a sleek design that is in line with your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your child's crib. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm to the nursery of your baby. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also, avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls, and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches are not allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items can easily get caught between the crib bars or get stuck within them. They may also be taken in by the mattress.
The best cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also comply with strict federal laws, state and local regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They're also designed to last and are adaptable, so they can adapt to your child's needs.
No matter if you're buying new or used, it's essential to select a crib that is in line with today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs could lose structural integrity over time due to age, humidity and frequent use. This could cause serious dangers to your baby.
The crib's slats should be no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware that is on the crib should be secured. Check the slats, mattress support rims and the hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, since their safety might have been compromised. Don't buy or accept a crib with drop-side rails. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
While all cribs must meet strict safety standards, you'll find many design differences. Some differences are purely cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Certain features, like drop sides and finials aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
One important thing to remember is that a crib is meant exclusively for sleeping infants and is not a place to store toys or clothing. You can also include a crib on your registry to receive help from family and friends in the event you need help.
Cribs are available in many different styles, but we prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified, which we think is a must for any toxic-free product. It can be transformed into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.
Some cribs sport more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a chic option that will fit into large nurseries. However, it takes more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels which is less than half the competition, and it's not as sturdy as our other picks.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher height to help reduce colic and reflux which makes it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress that is also a match. It's important to remember that this bed is more expensive than the other top picks, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it is important that the mattress is the correct height. This will ensure 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 suffocation or overheating.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit comes with most good cribs so that you can convert it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. 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, which means it has been tested to make sure there are minimal chemicals or finishes in the crib where your baby sleeps.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features an easy design and has no complicated parts. It is one of the most highly-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are shorter than many other models however, one user stated that her baby was comfortable in it and remained in good shape when she passed it on to a friend after her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great option. It features an oval shape, which creates a modern appearance. It's a little more expensive than other cribs, but its durability and features are worth it. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet, or toddler bed. It also has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a space more akin to a womb your baby. This is a chic touch in any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is it doesn't have an additional mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can grow with your child from newborn to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Components
The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. Babies love to grab objects, and if something is hanging over or above their crib, it could tug off the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other items, they must ensure that the items are securely secured and aren't in the reach of Baby.
In addition to the security features of our best cribs for infants, we also take into consideration how easy it is to put together. The ideal crib will be simple enough that you can do it yourself and doesn't require special tools or a long time to assemble. The majority of parents say that the process of assembling a modern crib can take less than an hour and the instructions included are generally clear and easy to follow.
It's important that you choose a crib that will last many years. For longevity, opt for an adjustable crib that will be used from the time of infancy all the way up to a toddler bed and finally a full-size bed.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet during the beginning, and later converted into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a full-size bed. It's built to last and is available in a variety of colors so that you can match it to the theme of your nursery's decor.
Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile to ensure that parents with small feet can reach their child to soothe them. It has a good reputation for its quality, and is available in cherry, white and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail which you can buy separately. cots and tots is an excellent option for those who are looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last.