How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is among the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. However, picking a suitable crib can be overwhelming especially when you consider the many different designs and security concerns.
Look for a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and has no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a crib with a broad selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that complements your style.
Safety
When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, be sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your baby which could cause injury or harm such as blankets, pillows, sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Also, your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. They could get caught between the crib bars or get trapped in them. They may also get taken up by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also adhere to strict federal laws, state and local regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They're also designed to be tough and reversible, which means they can grow along with your child.
cot sale that you choose cribs that meet current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can be damaged in their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and frequent use, posing serious dangers to your baby.
The slats on your crib should not be more than 3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secure. It's also a good idea to examine the slats and mattress support rims for any broken or loose parts.
It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their security may be compromised. Don't buy or accept a secondhand crib that has an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for safety reasons.
Style
While all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, you'll find many design differences. Some are just aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can impact the ease to use and clean the crib. Certain features such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib isn't designed to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be an area where babies can sleep. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your list so that friends and family can lend a hand to help you purchase one when the time comes.
Cribs come in all shapes and sizes, but the ones we prefer combine style and functionality. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and stylish. mini cot beds is also GREENGUARD gold-certified, which we think is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be converted to a daybed or toddler with a separate conversion kit.
Some cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stately choice that can be incorporated into big nursery spaces, but it takes up more floor space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some find distracting. Furthermore, it only has three levels of mattress height, which is less than half of the other options and isn't as sturdy as our other picks.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern aesthetic. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can be raised higher to alleviate colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than other top options, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is essential that the crib mattress of your baby is of the correct height. This ensures that your child doesn't fall out and fall, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help protect your baby from overheating or suffocating.
A quality crib should include slats that can be adjusted or railings that let you raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A conversion kit is included in the majority of cribs, so that you can turn it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. In the end, it's a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third-party organization for safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to ensure that there are no harmful chemicals or finishes present in your baby's sleep space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the top-rated cribs available, and it's easy to put together and features a simple design that doesn't include any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than other cribs however, one user reported that her baby slept well in it, and was in good shape when she gave it to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a contemporary style. It's a bit more costly than most cribs, but it is durable and has a number of options to make up the price. It can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or bassinet and comes with wheels that make it easy to move around. It also comes with a canopy that can be utilized to create a child-like space for your baby. It's also a stylish touch to any nursery.
This crib does not come with mattress. You'll have to buy one separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from a newborn to a toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. Babies like to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging over or above their crib, it could snag off the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they need to make sure that the items are securely secured and out of baby's reach.
We also examine how it is easy to build our top infant cribs. Ideally, the crib should be easy enough that you can do it yourself and doesn't require special tools or long assembly time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to put together the modern crib, and the instructions are usually easy to follow.
A crib is an important purchase for many new parents, and it's important to find one that will last for many years to come. Choose a crib that can be transformed from a crib to an infant's bed, and later a full-size mattress.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib that can be used to replace a bassinet for those early months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a variety of colors which makes it easy to match with your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a low profile which makes it easier for parents who are small to touch their child and comfort them. It has a good reputation for quality, and comes in cherry, white 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 all safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing lacking is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great option for those who want an affordable, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.