How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is one of the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. However, picking a suitable crib can be a daunting task especially when you consider the many different designs and safety concerns.

Find a crib that meets the most stringent safety standards and has no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib with a variety of mattress heights as well as modern, sleek design.

Safety

Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your child's crib. It is crucial to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets and Cot for Sale sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Teddy bears, dolls, and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches are not allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items could easily get caught between the crib bars or become trapped in them. They may also be taken up by the mattress.

The Best cot for newborn cribs for infants are made of safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also comply with strict federal laws, local and state requirements for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They're also designed to be tough and convertible, so they'll continue to grow with your child.

It's crucial to choose cribs that meet current safety standards, regardless of whether you're buying a brand new or used crib. Used cribs can become less sturdy over time due to the effects of humidity, age and use. This can cause serious dangers to your baby.

The crib's slats should be spaced no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent infants from getting wedged between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secured. It's an excellent idea to inspect the slats and mattress support rims for any broken or loose parts.

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 buy or purchase an older crib that has the drop side rail which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to reasons of safety.

Style

There are a variety of different designs of cribs, despite the fact that they all must meet safety standards. Some are just aesthetic, like whether the slats are of the same length or placed closer than others or not, while others have an impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should not be used and others, like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are highly sought-after by many parents.

One thing to be aware of is that a crib is meant only for infant sleep, so it's not an ideal place to store toys or clothing. It's also recommended to put a crib on your registry to ensure that family and friends can help you purchase one when the time comes.

Cribs come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the ones we prefer are those that combine style and function. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider essential for any product that is free of toxics, and it can convert into a toddler Cot Bed and 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 will fit into large nurseries. However, it occupies more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. Moreover, it only has three levels of mattress height, which is less than half the alternatives and isn't as durable as our other options.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a modern design. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and allow you to observe baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a matching mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices and requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the right height. This will ensure that your child can't climb out, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your child from overheating or suffocation.

A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your child grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your baby outgrows it. In the end, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and approved by a third party organisation for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is free of chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib has simple design and doesn't have confusing parts. It is among the most highly-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than other cribs, but one parent tester stated that her baby slept well in it and remained in good condition when she gave it to a friend after her second child.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It has an oval shape that gives it a contemporary look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features are worth it. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed. It also comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more child-like space for your cheap baby cots. It also adds an elegant look to any nursery.

This crib does not come with mattresses. You'll have to purchase one separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from newborn to toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Components

The safest cribs have no chewable or dangling parts. Babies love to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging from or above their crib, it could tug against the rails or create an entanglement hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other items, they must ensure that they secure the items and aren't within reach of Baby.

We also look at how it is easy to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be easy enough to put together yourself without requiring special tools or spending a large amount of time. The majority of parents say that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour, and the included instructions are usually clear and easy to follow.

A crib is an important purchase for many new parents, so it's crucial to find one that will last for years to come. To ensure longevity, you should choose a convertible crib that will work from infancy all the way up to a toddler bed and finally a full-size bed.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet in the beginning, and later transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed or a full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a range of colors which makes it easy to match your nursery's theme.

Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for parents who are small to touch their child and comfort them. It also has a great reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white, espresso, and natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail that you can purchase separately. This is a good option for those who want an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.