The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is an crucial piece for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good crib can be a daunting task, especially with so many various styles and security concerns.

Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a crib with a wide choice of mattress heights and a stylish design that matches your style.

Safety

Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your child's crib. It is important to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your child that could cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches are not allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items could easily slide between the crib bars or become stuck within them. They may also be taken up by the mattress.

The most suitable cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also meet strict federal, state and local requirements for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They're also designed to be tough and convertible, so they'll grow with your child.

It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs may lose their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and heavy use, posing grave dangers to your child.

The crib's slats should not be more than 3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware must be secured. Check the slats, mattress support rims and the hardware for any damaged or loose components.

It is best to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, since their safety could be at risk. Don't purchase or buy a crib with a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.

Style

There are many design differences between cribs, despite the fact that all have to meet safety standards. Some of the differences are aesthetic, such as the slats have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can impact the ease to clean and use the crib sets. Some features like drop sides and finials are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are desirable by many parents.

One thing to be aware of 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 on your registry to seek help from family and friends in the event you need help.

Cribs come in all sizes and shapes However, the ones we like best have a mix of style and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be converted into a daybed and toddler with a separate conversion kit.

Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a grand crib that fits well into large nursery spaces, however it occupies more floor space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some find distracting. It has only three mattress levels which is a fraction of the number offered by competitors. It's not as sturdy as our other choices.

Another option that has a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see Baby Cot Bed, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can also be raised to a higher height to alleviate reflux and colic and colic, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an additional mattress. It's worth noting, though it's more costly than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is important that the crib mattress of your baby is the right height. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A higher mattress can also safeguard your child from overheating or suffocation.

A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise or lower it as your baby grows. A conversion kit is included with most good cribs to allow you to convert it into a daybed or toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. It is an excellent idea to select a crib which has been certified and tested by a third-party institution. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification that means it has been tested to ensure there are no harmful chemicals or finishes present in the baby's sleeping space.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib has simple design and doesn't have complicated parts. It is one of the most highly-rated cribs. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one tester said that her baby slept well and that the crib was in good condition when she gave it to a relative for her second child.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary look. It is 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 womb-like environment for your baby. It's also a stylish touch to any nursery.

The only drawback to this crib is it doesn't have an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can expand with your child from newborn to toddler.

No dangling or chewable parts

The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grab things, and if something is hanging over or above their crib it could snag against the rails or create an injury to strangulation. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they need to be sure that the items are securely secured and are not within Baby's reach.

We also examine how easy it is to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be easy enough to assemble by yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a lot of time. Many parents report that it takes less than an hour to assemble an modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.

It is essential to select a crib that will last many years. Choose a crib that can be converted from a crib to an infant's bed, and then to a full-size mattress.

Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can be used as a bassinet for those early months, and then be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size Mini Cot Bed. It is designed to last and comes in a variety of colors, so you can match it to the theme of your nursery's decor.

Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and calm their child. It also has a good reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors as well as natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety, and it's made from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins like lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds the standards of government agencies such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is not included is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a good option for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last for a long time.