The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is one of the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good crib can be overwhelming especially when you consider the many various styles and security concerns.

Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, with no dangling or chewable parts. We also suggest a chic crib with a range of mattress heights and a sleek, modern design.

Safety

Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your child's crib. It is crucial to not place any items in the crib of your child that could cause injury or harm, including pillows, blankets as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could easily fall into or get caught between your baby and the crib bars or they could be swallowed by the mattress.

The most suitable cribs for infants are made from 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 safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certs!). And they are designed to last and are flexible, allowing them to expand with your child.

If you're buying a new crib or used, it's important to choose a crib that is in line with today's strict safety standards. Used cribs can become less sturdy over time due to the effects of humidity, age and frequent use. This can pose serious risks to your baby.

The slats of your crib should not be longer than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secured. Check the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any loose or damaged components.

It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, since their safety may be at risk. Don't buy or buy a second-hand crib with the drop side rail which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for reasons of safety.

Style

There are a variety of different designs of cribs, despite the fact that all must be safe to use standards. Some are purely aesthetic, such as if the slats are the same length or spaced closer than others or not, while others have a real impact on how easy the crib is to use and maintain. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should be avoided, while others--like adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are highly sought-after by many parents.

One important thing to remember is that the crib should be used only for infant sleep, so it's not an area to store toys or clothes. You can also include a crib in your registry to seek help from family and friends in the event that you require one.

Cribs are available in a variety of different styles We prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks stunning. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is essential for any product that is free of toxics and it's able to convert into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).

Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It is a stylish option that can fit in large nursery. However, it takes more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels which is less than half of the other options, and it's not as sturdy as our other choices.

Another option that has contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see baby, top Rated Cots which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher level to ease colic and reflux which makes it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary matching mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices, and it requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is essential that your baby's crib mattress is of the correct height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be risky or even fatal. A higher mattress also helps protect your baby from overheating or becoming suffocated.

A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit comes in the majority of cribs, to allow you to convert it into a daybed or toddler bed when your child is no longer in the crib. It's also a good idea to pick the crib that is tested and certified by a third-party institution. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby cots online's crib is free of finishes or chemicals.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the top-rated cribs on the market, and it's easy to assemble and has a simple layout that doesn't contain any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than most cribs however, one user stated that her baby did well sleeping in it and remained in good cribs shape when she passed it on to a friend after her second child.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent alternative. It features an oval shape, which gives it a contemporary look. It's a little more expensive than other cribs but its durability and features are worth it. It is able to be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed and comes with wheels that make it easy to move. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a like a womb for your baby and adds an elegant look to any nursery.

This crib is not equipped with mattresses. You'll have to purchase a mattress separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that will be adapted to your child's needs from newborn to toddler.

No dangling or chewable parts

The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. If something is hung over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to pull or create a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should make sure they secure the items and aren't within reach of Baby.

In addition to the security features of our best infant cribs cribs for infants, we also consider how simple it is to assemble. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a large amount of time. Many parents report that the process of assembling a modern crib can take less than an hour and the included instructions are usually clear and easy to follow.

It's important that you choose a crib that lasts for many years. To ensure longevity, you should choose a convertible crib that will be used from the time of infancy until a toddler bed and finally a full-size Cot Bed.

Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can replace an infant bassinet during the first months, then convert to a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's made for long-term use and is available in a variety of colors that make it easy to match your nursery's theme.

Another excellent choice 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 their child. It is renowned for its quality, and is available 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 exceeds the standards of government agencies such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail which you can purchase separately. This is an excellent option for those who are seeking a top-quality crib that is affordable and built to last for a long time.