The 10 Most Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant recommended cribs
A crib is among the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to pick the best crib, given so many designs and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a crib with a wide selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that complements your style.
Safety
When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. 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 other stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could fall between your baby's crib bars or get stuck in them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also comply with strict federal laws, local and state standards for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They are also designed to be tough and convertible, so they'll continue to grow with your child.
It is essential to select a crib which meets the current safety standards, no matter if you're buying a brand new or used crib. Used cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to aging, humidity and heavy use, posing serious dangers to your baby.
The slats of your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secure. It's an excellent idea to examine the slats and mattress support rims for any loose or broken parts.
It is best to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their security could have been compromised. Don't buy or accept the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
There are a lot of different designs of cribs, even though they all must meet safety standards. Some are just cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others could make it difficult to use and clean the crib. Certain features, like drop sides and finials are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are sought-after by many parents.
A crib isn't designed to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place where babies can sleep. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your list so that friends and family can assist you in getting one when the time comes.
Cribs come in many different styles However, we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks great. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is essential for any baby product that is non-toxic and it's able to convert into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a grand crib that fits well into large nurseries, but it occupies more floor space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some might find distracting. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half the other options and it's not as sturdy as some of our other options.
Another option that has contemporary 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 higher to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an additional mattress. It's important to note, 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 vital that the mattress is the correct height. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which could be fatal or dangerous. A mattress that is higher will also safeguard your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise or lower it as your child grows. The majority of cribs include a conversion kit so you can turn the crib into a toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. Finally, it's a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee your baby's crib is free of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the most highly-rated cribs on the market, and it's simple to put together, with a straightforward design that doesn't include any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than many other models however, one user said that her child was comfortable in it and was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend after her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent alternative. It has an oval shape which gives it a contemporary look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs but its quality and features are worth it. It can easily be transformed into a toddler bed or bassinet and comes with wheels that make it easy to move. It has a canopy which can be used to create a space that resembles a womb for your baby. It adds a fashionable touch in any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with mattresses. You will need to purchase a mattress separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they go from newborn to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The safest cribs do not have chewable or hanging components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should ensure that the items are securely secured and aren't within reach of Baby.
We also consider how it is easy to build our top infant cot bed cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without the need for special tools or spending a long amount of time. Most parents report that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour and the instructions included are usually clear and easy to follow.
A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, so it's crucial to find one that will last for a long time to come. Select a crib that is able to be transformed from a crib to an adult bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
Our top pick for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can be used as the bassinet in the early months, then convert to a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size cheap cot bed. It's built to last and comes in a variety of colors, so you can match it with your nursery's design theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile so that petite parents can touch their child to calm them. It also has a great reputation for quality and is available in white, cherry and espresso colors as well as natural pine 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 standards set by the government like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing lacking is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.