11 Strategies To Completely Block Your Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the best cot beds Infant Cribs
A crib is among the most essential items for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good crib can be overwhelming particularly with the number of different styles and security concerns.
Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib with a variety of mattress heights and modern, sleek design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your crib for your child. It is essential to stay clear of putting anything in your baby's crib that could potentially cause harm or injury including blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. They could easily fall into or be caught between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The best rated cribs infant cribs are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also comply with strict federal laws, local and state regulations for structural safety. They're also third-party tested to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They're also designed to be tough and convertible, so they'll continue to grow with your child.
It's crucial to choose a crib which meets the current safety standards, no matter if you're buying a brand new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can lose their structural integrity due to humidity, age and heavy use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The slats of your crib should be no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware that is on the crib should be secured. It's also a good idea to check the slats and mattress support rims for any loose or broken parts.
It's best to avoid cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their safety may be at risk. Don't purchase or buy cribs with drop-side rails. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
While all cribs have to adhere to strict safety standards, there are numerous design variations. Some are just aesthetic, like whether the slats are the same length or spaced closer apart and others have a significant impact on how easy the crib is to maintain cots and tots use. 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 a crib is meant only for infant sleep and is not an area to store toys or clothes. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your list so that your family and friends can lend a hand to assist you in getting one when the time comes.
Cribs come in all sizes and shapes However, the ones we like best have a mix of style and functionality. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider an essential feature for any baby product that is non-toxic and it's able to convert into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a classy crib that fits well into large nursery spaces, however it takes up more floor space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. It only has three levels of mattress which is a fraction of the competition's number. It's also not as sturdy as our other picks.
Another option with contemporary design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and make it easier to observe baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher position to ease colic and reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to know that this Mini Cot Bed is more expensive than the other top choices, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's important that the mattress is at the right level. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which could be fatal or dangerous. A mattress that is higher can safeguard your child from suffocation or overheating.
A good crib will include slats that can be adjusted or railings that let you raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. Most good cribs (see it here) will also come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed when your child is no longer using it. Finally, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and approved by a third-party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your cheap baby cots's crib is free of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib has simple design and doesn't have complicated parts. It is one of the most highly-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than most cribs however one tester said that her child was comfortable in it and remained in good condition 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 has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern look. It's a little more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features make up for it. It is able to be converted into a toddler bed or bassinet and comes with wheels to make it simple to move. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a like a womb for your baby. It also adds a stylish touch to any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is that it doesn't include an additional mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they grow from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The safest cribs are those that are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grab objects, and if something is hanging from or above their crib it could tug off the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other items, they must make sure they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our best cribs for babies, we consider how simple it is to assemble. The ideal crib will be easy enough that you can build it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or long assembly time. Many parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour and the included instructions are generally clear and easy to follow.
It's important that you choose the right crib that will last for many years. For longevity, opt for an adjustable crib that will work from infancy all the way to the toddler bed, and then a larger bed.
Our top pick for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can be used as the bassinet in the early months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's designed to last and comes in many colors so you can match it to your nursery's design theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic alternative. This beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile, so small parents can reach their child to soothe them. It also has a great 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. It's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds the standards of government agencies such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great choice for those looking for a quality affordable crib that will last for a long time.