How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is among the most essential items for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good one can feel overwhelming especially when you consider the many different designs and security concerns.

Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a stylish crib that has a variety of mattress heights as well as modern, sleek design.

Safety

When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, be sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery. This includes pillows, blankets and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. They could get caught between the crib bars or become stuck within them. They may also be taken up by the mattress.

The best cot beds cribs for babies are made of materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also comply with strict federal, state and local standards for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They're designed to last and are adaptable, so they can grow with your child.

If you're buying a new crib or used, it's essential to select a crib that meets the current stringent safety standards. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to age, humidity and heavy use, posing serious dangers to your baby.

The slats on your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secure. Examine the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any broken or loose components.

It is also advisable to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their safety could be compromised. Don't purchase or buy the crib that has drop-side rails. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.

Style

There are many different designs of cribs, even though they all must be safe to use standards. Some of the differences are aesthetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can impact the ease to use and clean the crib. Certain features such as drop sides and finials are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by a lot of parents.

A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also include a crib in your registry to get assistance from family and friends when you need one.

Cribs come in many different styles However, we prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider an essential feature for any toxic-free baby product and can be converted into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).

Some cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It is a stylish option that can be incorporated into larger nurseries. However, it takes more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. It has only three levels of mattress which is a fraction of the competition's number. It's not as sturdy as our other choices.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern aesthetic. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be raised to a higher position to help reduce colic and reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with a free matching mattress. It's important to note, however it's more costly than our other top rated cots 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 at the correct level. This will ensure that your child isn't able to climb out, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher also helps keep your child from suffocating or overheating.

A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise or lower it as your baby grows. Most good cribs (daoqiao.net) will also include a conversion kit that allows you can turn the crib into the toddler bed or daybed after your baby outgrows it. It is recommended for you to choose a crib which has been certified and tested by a third-party organisation. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to ensure there are minimal chemical or other finishes in your baby's sleep space.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the top-rated cribs available and it's easy to put together, with a straightforward design that doesn't include any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than other models. However, one parent tester reported that her child slept well and the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend for her second child.

Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary look. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, but its durability and features make up for Small Cot Beds it. It can, for instance, be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed and comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a more like a womb for your baby. It's also an elegant touch to any nursery.

The only drawback to this crib is it doesn't have an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can grow with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.

No dangling or chewable components.

The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to pull or cause strangulation. Babies are extremely grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they should ensure that the items are securely secured and out of baby's reach.

In addition to the security features of our best infant cribs, we also look at how easy it is to assemble. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or a large amount of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to assemble a modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.

A crib is the most expensive purchase for new parents, and it is essential to choose one that will last for years to come. For long-lasting use, choose a convertible crib that will be used from the time of infancy all the way up to a toddler bed and finally an adult-sized bed.

Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace a bassinet for those early months, and then be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a variety of colors which makes it easy to match your nursery's theme.

Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent option. This beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile to ensure that small parents can reach their child and soothe them. It also has a good reputation for quality and is available in white, cherry, espresso, and 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 government standards such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail, that you can purchase separately. This is a great option for those seeking a top-quality affordable crib that will last.