The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the best infant cribs (read this article)
A crib is one of the most essential items for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good crib can be overwhelming, especially with so many different styles and security concerns.
Choose a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and has no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib that has a variety of mattress heights and a sleek, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your baby's crib. Avoid placing any objects that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls, and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches are not allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items can easily fall into or become caught between your baby and the crib bars or be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cot beds cribs for babies are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also adhere to strict federal laws, local and state regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They're designed to be sustainable and flexible, allowing them to adapt to your child's needs.
No matter if you're buying new or used, it's essential to choose cribs that meet today's strict safety standards. Secondhand cribs may be weakened in the course of time due to the effects of humidity, age and heavy use. This can pose serious risks to your baby.
The slats of your crib should be no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep infants from getting wedged between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secure. It's an excellent idea to check the slats and the rims of the mattress support for any broken or loose parts.
It's best baby cots to avoid cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, as their safety could be at risk. Finally, don't purchase or accept a second-hand crib with the drop side rail which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to safety reasons.
Style
There are a variety of design differences between cribs, despite the fact that all have to meet safety standards. Some of the differences are cosmetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced further than others, and some can affect how easy it is to clean and use the crib. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should not be used, while others--like adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are highly sought-after by many parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place where babies can sleep. It's also an excellent idea to include a crib on your registry so that your family and friends can help you get one when the time arrives.
Cribs are available in a variety of sizes and shapes However, the ones we like best have a mix of style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks great. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be transformed to a daybed or toddler with a separate conversion kit.
Some 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 up more floor space when compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Moreover, it only has three levels of mattress height, which is less than half the alternatives and it's not as sturdy as some of our other options.
Another option with a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies between 6 months and the birth. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with a free matching mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than other top choices and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler cheap cot beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is the right height. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher will also safeguard your child from suffocation or overheating.
A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise or lower it as your child grows. The majority of cribs come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your baby outgrows it. It is an excellent idea to pick a crib which 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 guarantee your baby's crib 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, with a straightforward design that doesn't have any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than other models. However, one parent tester reported that her Baby Cot Bed slept well and that the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great option. It features an oval shape, which gives it a contemporary look. It's a little more expensive than other cribs, however its durability and features make up for it. For instance, it can be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed and has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It has a canopy which can be used to create an environment that resembles a womb for your baby. This is a chic accent to any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is it doesn't have a mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that will expand with your child from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable components.
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging from their crib or above them, it could tug off the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other objects, they should ensure that they secure the items and aren't within reach of Baby.
In addition to the safety features of our top cribs for infants, we also look at how easy it is to set up. The ideal crib will be simple enough to be able to make it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or a long time to assemble. Many parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than a half hour, and the included instructions are generally clear and easy to follow.
It is essential to select a crib that will last many years. To ensure longevity, you should choose a convertible crib that will be used from the time of infancy all the way up to an adult bed and then a full-size bed.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can replace the bassinet in the early months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It's made for long-term use and comes in a range of colors, making it easy to match with your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile that makes it easier for parents with small hands to touch their child and comfort them. It is well-known for quality and comes 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 far exceeds safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a good option for those looking for an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.