The 10 Most Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is among the most essential items for your Baby Cot Bed's nursery. But picking out a good one can feel overwhelming especially when you consider the many different designs and security concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib that has a variety of mattress sizes and modern, sleek design.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, make sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is essential to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets as well as sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items could easily fall into or get stuck between your baby and the crib bars or be swallowed by the mattress.
The best crib cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also meet strict federal and state standards for structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). And they are designed to last and are adaptable, so they can grow with your child.
It is essential to select cribs that meet current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can have their structural integrity weakened due to aging, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose serious dangers to your baby.
The slats on your crib should be spaced no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep infants from getting wedged between them, and the hardware on the crib must be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It's also recommended to avoid using cribs that were used by children or pets, since their safety could be compromised. Finally, don't purchase or buy an older crib that has an incline side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to security reasons.
Style
There are a lot of variations in the design of cribs, despite the fact that all must meet safety standards. Some differences are purely aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others could make it difficult to use and clean the crib. Some features like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.
A crib isn't designed to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place for babies to sleep. You can also include a crib on your registry to receive assistance from family and friends in the event you need help.
Cribs come in a variety of sizes and shapes however, the ones we prefer have a mix of style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks great. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is essential for any toxic-free product. It can be converted into a toddler and daybed by converting it with a separate kit.
Other cribs are more traditional, like 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 the smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some might find distracting. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half of the alternatives and isn't as sturdy as our other picks.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern aesthetic. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you to see your baby cots online which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised higher to alleviate colic and reflux. This is 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 important to note, however it's more expensive than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's important that the mattress is the right height. This ensures that your child isn't able to climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A higher mattress can also safeguard your child from overheating or suffocation.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit that allows you can turn the crib into a toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. It's recommended to pick the crib that has been certified and tested by a third-party organization. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee your baby's crib is not contaminated of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's easy to put together and features a simple design that doesn't have any confusing parts or pieces. The crib's sides are shorter than the other models. However, one tester reported that her child slept well and the crib was still in good shape when she gave it to a friend for her second child.
Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a modern style. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its durability and features make up for it. It can be easily converted into a bassinet or toddler bed, and it has wheels to make it simple to move. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It's also an elegant look to any nursery.
The only drawback to this crib is that it doesn't come with an additional mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from infant to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hung over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or cause strangulation. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they should ensure that the items are securely fastened and are out of Baby's reach.
We also look at how it is easy to build our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without requiring special tools or spending a long amount of time. Most parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together a modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, so it's crucial to find one that will last for years to come. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib into a toddler's bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can be used as the bassinet in the early months, and later convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It's designed to last and is available in a variety of colors, so you can match it with your nursery's design theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another great alternative. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and calm 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 harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great choice for those looking for an affordable, high-quality crib that will last.