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. It isn't easy to select the best crib, given so many styles and safety concerns.

Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards and has no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a stylish crib that has a variety of mattress sizes and an elegant, modern design.

Safety

When assembling and positioning your baby's crib make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to not place any items in your baby's crib that could cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows, sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). 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 be stuck in them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.

The best infant cribs are made of 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 a third party to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They're designed to last and are adaptable, so they can expand with your child.

It is essential to select cribs that meet current safety standards, whether you're buying a brand new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may lose structural integrity over time due to age, humidity and heavy use. This can cause serious dangers to your baby.

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

It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that were used by other children or pets, as their security might have been compromised. Don't purchase or buy a crib with drop-side rails. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.

Style

There are a variety of variations in the design of cribs, despite the fact that all must be safe to use standards. Some are purely aesthetic, like whether the slats are the same length or spaced closer than others and others have a real impact on the ease of the crib to use and maintain. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should not be used, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are desirable for many parents.

One thing to keep in mind is that a crib is meant exclusively for sleeping infants, so it's not an area to store clothes or toys. It's also recommended to put the crib on your list so that friends and family can lend a hand to assist you in getting one when the time comes.

Cribs are available in a variety of different styles We prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and stylish. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is essential for any baby product that is non-toxic and can be converted into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).

Some cribs sport an older-style look, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It is a stylish option that will fit into large nurseries. However, it takes more floor space compared to smaller minimalist options. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half of the competition and it's not as sturdy as some of our other options.

Another option that has modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised cots to tots relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and the birth. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's important to remember that this cot bed sales is more expensive than the other top options, and it requires a separate conversion kit for toddler mini cot beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

If your baby sleeps in their crib, it is important that the mattress is the right level. This ensures that your child can't climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A higher mattress also helps protect your baby from overheating or becoming suffocated.

A quality crib should have adjustable slats or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. The majority of cribs include a conversion kit so you can turn the crib into a toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. It's an excellent idea to pick the crib that is tested and certified by a third-party organisation. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee the crib of your baby is free of chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the most highly-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 the other models. However, one tester reported that her child was sleeping well and the crib was still in good shape when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it is durable and has numerous features that make up the price. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed and has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create an environment that resembles a womb for your baby. This is a chic design to any nursery.

The crib doesn't come with mattresses. You will need to purchase one separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will expand with your child from newborn to toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Parts

The safest cribs are those that are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grasp things, and if something is hanging over or above their crib, it could tug on the rails or become an injury to strangulation. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should ensure that they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.

We also examine how easy it is to build our top infant cribs. The ideal crib will be easy enough that you can build it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or long assembly time. The majority of parents say it takes less than an hour to assemble a modern crib, and the instructions are generally simple to follow.

A crib is a major purchase for most new parents, so it is essential to choose one that will last for years to come. Choose a crib that can be converted from a crib to an adult bed, and then a full-size mattress.

Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can replace the bassinet in the early months, and later convert to a toddler bed daybed, and a full-size Mini Cot Bed. It is designed to last and comes in a variety of colors so that you can match it to the theme of your nursery's decor.

Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent option. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a low profile that allows parents who are small to reach their child and calm them. It also has a great reputation for quality and is available in white, cherry espresso, natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety, and it's constructed 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's missing is a toddler rail which you can purchase separately. This is a great choice for those looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.