The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the best cot bed Infant Cribs
A crib is among the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the ideal crib, due to so many designs and safety concerns.
Choose a crib that meets the highest safety standards and includes no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a chic crib with a variety of mattress heights as well as a sleek, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your crib for your child. It is crucial to not place any items in your baby's crib which could cause harm or injury 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 should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could get caught between the crib bars or become trapped in them. They could also be 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, local and state requirements for structural safety. They're also third-party tested to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They are also designed to last and convertible, so they'll continue to grow with your child.
It's crucial to choose a crib which meets the current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Used cribs can be weakened in the course of time due to age, humidity and frequent use. This can create serious risks for your baby.
The slats on your crib should not be longer than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secured. It's an excellent idea to check the slats and the rims of the mattress support for any broken or loose parts.
It is best to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their security could have been compromised. Don't purchase or buy the crib that has drop-side rails. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
While all cribs must meet strict safety standards, you'll find a lot of design differences. Some of the differences are cosmetic, like whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced farther than others, and some can make it difficult to use and clean the crib. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used and others, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are desirable for many parents.
One thing to keep in mind is that a crib should be used only for infant sleep, so it's not an area to store clothes or toys. It's also an excellent idea to include the crib on your registry to ensure that family and friends can pitch in to help you get one when the time arrives.
Cribs are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the ones we prefer have a mix of style and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is an essential feature for any toxic-free baby product and can be converted into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stylish choice that will fit into large nurseries. However, it takes up more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than the competition's number. It's also not as durable as our other choices.
Another option with a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and allow you to see baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised to ease colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and the birth. It's GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's worth noting, however it's more costly than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is crucial that your baby's crib mattress is of the correct height. This ensures that your child can't climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your child from suffocation or overheating.
A quality crib will have adjustable slats or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can transform the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler cheap cot bed after your baby outgrows it. In the end, it's recommended cribs to select a crib that has been tested and approved by a third party organisation for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is free of finishes or chemicals.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the top-rated cribs available and it's easy to assemble and has a simple layout that doesn't contain any confusing parts or pieces. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one tester reported that her baby slept well and that the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend for her second child.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a modern style. It's a bit more costly than other cribs, however it is durable and has a number of features to make up for the price. It is able to be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed, and it has wheels that make it easy to move around. It comes with a canopy that can be used to create an environment more like a womb for your baby. It adds a fashionable design to any nursery.
This crib is not equipped with mattresses. You will need to purchase a mattress separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they transition from infant to toddler.
No Chewable or Dangling Parts
The safest cribs are those that have no dangling or chewable components. Babies like to grab things, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them, it could pull off the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they must be sure that the items are securely attached and out of baby's reach.
In addition to the security features of our best infant cribs, we also take into consideration how easy it is to set up. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough that you can build it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or extensive assembly time. Many parents report that it takes less than an hour to put together the modern crib, and the instructions are generally easy to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, and it's crucial to find one that will last for a long time to come. For longevity, opt for a convertible crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life all the way to the toddler bed, and then an adult-sized bed.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet during the beginning, and later converted into a toddler bed, a daybed or a large bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a range of colors, making it easy to match your nursery's theme.
Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile that 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 of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of toxins like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing lacking is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a good option for those looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last.