How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. It can be difficult to choose the best crib, given numerous styles and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that meets the highest safety standards and has no chewable or dangling components. We recommend a crib with a broad range of mattress height settings and a modern design that complements 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 important to avoid putting any items in the crib of your child which could cause injury or harm, including pillows, blankets, sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. These items could easily get caught between the crib bars or become stuck within them. They could also be taken in by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state standards for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). They are also designed to be durable and reversible, which means they'll grow with your child.
It is essential to select a crib which meets the current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Secondhand 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 not be longer than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secured. Examine the slats, mattress support rims and hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It's also wise to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their security could be at risk. Also, don't purchase or buy a second-hand crib with the drop side rail which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to reasons of safety.
Style
There are a lot of variations in the design of cribs, despite the fact that all have to meet safety standards. Some differences are purely cosmetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced further than others, and some can impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Some features like drop sides and finials aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, like the adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by a lot of parents.
great crib is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place for babies to sleep. It's also recommended to put a crib on your registry so that your family and friends can lend a hand to help you get one when the time comes.
Cribs come in many different styles We prefer ones that blend design and function. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. best rated cribs certified, which we consider essential for any baby product that is non-toxic and can be converted into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stylish choice that can be incorporated into larger nursery. However, it takes more space than smaller minimalist options. It only has three mattress levels which is less than the number offered by competitors. It's also not as durable as our other choices.
good cribs 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 feature for many new parents. It can also be raised to a higher height to ease colic and reflux which makes it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to note, however, that it's more expensive than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
When your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the correct height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be fatal or dangerous. A higher mattress can also protect your baby from overheating or suffocation.
A quality crib will have slats or railings that are adjustable that let you raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. The majority of cribs include a conversion kit so you can convert the crib into the toddler bed or daybed after your baby outgrows it. It is recommended to pick a crib that has been tested and certified by a third-party organisation. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to make sure there are no harmful chemicals or finishes present in the crib where your baby sleeps.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the top-rated cribs available, and it's easy to put together and has a simple design that doesn't include any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are shorter than most cribs however, one user stated that her baby was comfortable in it and remained in good condition when she passed it on to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It has an oval shape which creates a modern appearance. It's more expensive than other cribs, however it's durable and comes with numerous features to make up for the cost. It can be easily converted into an infant bed or a bassinet and has wheels to make it easy to move. It has a canopy which can be used to create an atmosphere more like a womb for your baby. It adds a fashionable accent to any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is that it doesn't come with mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can grow with your child from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The safest cribs have no chewable or hanging components. If something is hung above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other decorative objects, they should ensure that they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our top cribs for babies, we consider how simple it is to assemble. Ideally, the crib should be easy enough that you can build it yourself and doesn't require special tools or extensive assembly time. Many parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together an modern crib, and the instructions are usually easy to follow.
A crib will be the most expensive purchase for new parents, which is why it is essential to choose one that will last for years to be. Pick a crib that can be transformed from a crib into an adult bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
Our top pick for a 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 into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. It is designed to last and is available in many colors so you can match it to your nursery's theme.
Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile to ensure that parents with small feet can reach their child to calm them. It is well-known for quality, and comes in white, cherry 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 standards set by the government such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a great option for those looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last for a long time.