The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is a very essential piece of furniture for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good crib can be a daunting task especially when you consider the many different styles and security concerns.
Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a crib that has a broad selection of mattress heights and a sleek design that is in line with your style.
Safety
When assembling and positioning your baby's crib, make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is essential to stay clear of putting anything in your baby's crib 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). Your baby cot online should also not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. These items could easily fall into or be caught between your baby and the crib bars or be swallowed by the mattress.
The best crib cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also meet strict federal laws, state and local standards 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 reversible, which means they'll continue to grow with your child.
No matter if you're buying new or used, it's important to choose cribs that meet today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose serious risks to your infant.
The slats of your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secured. Examine the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any broken or loose components.
It's also wise to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their security may have been compromised. Do not purchase or purchase the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
While all cribs must meet strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some of the differences are cosmetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced further than others, and some can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should be avoided, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are highly sought-after by many parents.
One important thing to remember is that a crib is meant only for infant sleep It's not a place to store toys or clothing. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your registry to ensure that family and friends can pitch in to help you get one when the time comes.
Cribs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the ones we like best have a mix of style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks stunning. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider a must-have for any baby product that is non-toxic, and it can convert into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It is a stylish option that will fit into large nursery. However, it takes more floor space when compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half the competition and isn't as durable as our other choices.
Another option with modern design 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 aspect for 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 is also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary mattress. It's important to remember that this bed is more expensive than the other top options, and it requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it is important that the mattress is at the right level. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be fatal or dangerous. A higher mattress can also protect your baby from suffocation or overheating.
A good crib will have slats or railings that are adjustable that let you raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can convert the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler cheap cot bed when your child is no longer using it. It is recommended to pick the crib that has been certified and tested by a third-party institution. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that your baby's crib is not contaminated of finishes or chemicals.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib has simple design and doesn't have confusing parts. It is among the top cribs. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one tester reported that her child was sleeping well and the crib was in good shape when she gave it to a friend as her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic option. It has an oval shape which creates a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than most cribs, but it's durable and comes with a number of features that make up the price. It can, for instance, be transformed into a bassinet, or toddler bed. It also has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more like a womb for your baby. It's also a stylish touch to any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is that it doesn't include an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that can expand with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable components.
The safest cribs are those that are free of chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or create a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they need to be sure that the items are securely attached and out of baby's reach.
We also look at how easy it is to put together our top cribs for infants. The ideal crib will be easy enough to be able to do it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or long assembly time. Many parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together an modern crib, and the instructions are usually easy to follow.
It is essential to select a crib that will last many years. Choose a crib that can be transformed from a crib to a toddler's bed, and then a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the early months and then converted into an infant bed, a daybed, or a full-size bed. It is designed to last and comes in many colors so you can match it with the theme of your nursery's decor.
Another great crib option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a low profile that allows petite parents to reach their child and soothe them. It has a good reputation for its quality, and is available in white, cherry 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 the safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that's missing is a toddler rail that you can purchase separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for a high-quality crib that is affordable and built to last.