How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an important piece for the nursery of your baby. But picking out a good crib can be a daunting task particularly with the number of different styles and security concerns.
Look for a crib that has the most stringent safety standards, including no chewable or dangling parts. We also suggest a crib with a broad choice of mattress heights and a modern design that matches your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your child's crib. It is essential to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your child which could cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items could easily get caught between the crib bars or become trapped in them. They may also get taken in by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also comply with strict federal laws, state and local requirements for structural safety. They're also third-party tested to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They are also designed to be durable and convertible, so they can grow along with your child.
It's crucial to choose a crib that meets current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Used cribs can lose structural integrity over time due to humidity, age and use. This can cause serious dangers to your baby.
The slats on your crib should be spaced no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep babies from getting trapped between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secure. Check the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any broken or loose components.
It's best to avoid cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their safety may be at risk. Finally, don't purchase or purchase a secondhand crib that has a drop side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to reasons of safety.
Style
While all cribs have to adhere to strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some are simply aesthetic, such as whether the slats are of identical in length or are spaced closer apart and others have an impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Certain features, such as drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should be avoided, while others--like adjustable mattress height and wheels/casters desirable for many parents.
A crib is not meant to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place for babies to sleep. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your registry so that friends and family can pitch in to assist you in getting one when the time arrives.
Cribs are available in a variety of different styles, but we prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is a must-have for any product that is free of toxics and can be converted into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It is a stylish option that will fit into large nurseries. However, it takes up more space than smaller minimalist options. Moreover, it only has three levels of mattress height, which is less than half of the other options and isn't as sturdy as some of our other choices.
Another option that has modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This is suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with an additional mattress. It's worth noting, however, that it's more expensive than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's important that the mattress is the correct height. This ensures that your child isn't able to climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. cots 4 tots that is higher can also help keep your child from suffocating or overheating.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. A conversion kit is provided with most good cribs so that you can convert it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. In the end, it's a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third-party organization to ensure safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that the crib of your baby is free of chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs available and it's simple to put together, with a straightforward design that doesn't have any complicated pieces or parts. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one test subject said that their child was sleeping well and the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend as her second child.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary style. It's more expensive than other cribs, however it's sturdy and comes with many features that make up the price. It can be easily converted into a toddler bed or bassinet, and it has wheels to make it simple to move. It has a canopy which can be used to create a space more like a womb for your baby. This is a chic design to any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with mattresses. You'll have to purchase one separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.
There are no dangling or chewable ingredients.
The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to pull or create a strangulation risk. Babies are extremely grabbing. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other decorative objects, they should make sure the items are securely secured and aren't in the reach of Baby.
We also examine how it is easy to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be easy enough to assemble yourself, without the need for special tools or spending a large amount of time. Most 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 is crucial to choose a crib that will last many years. Select a crib that is able to be transformed from a crib into a toddler's bed, and later a full-size mattress.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, that can be used to replace an infant bassinet during the first months, and then be converted to a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. try this 's built to last and is available in many colors so you can match it with your nursery's theme.
Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile so that parents with small feet can touch their child to soothe them. It is renowned for its quality, and is available in cherry, white and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety. It's made from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins like lead and phthalates (BPA). It also surpasses all safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for a high-quality, affordable crib that will last for a long time.