The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is among the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. However, choosing a suitable crib can be overwhelming especially when you consider the many different styles and security concerns.

Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling parts. We recommend a crib with a broad selection of mattress heights and a modern design that complements your style.

Safety

When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, make sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items 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. Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. They could get caught between the crib bars or get stuck in them. They may also get taken in by the mattress.

The best infant cribs cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also comply with strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure quality tots and cots safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They're also designed to be durable and reversible, which means they can grow along with your child.

If you're buying a new crib or used, it's crucial to choose cribs that meet today's rigorous safety standards. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose serious dangers to your Baby Crib.

The slats on your crib should be spaced no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware that is on the crib should be secure. It's an excellent idea to inspect the mattress support rims and slats for broken or loose components.

It's best to avoid cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, as their security could be at risk. Don't buy or accept a crib with drop-side rails. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.

Style

While all cribs have to meet strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some are purely aesthetic, such as whether the slats are of the same length or placed closer than others, while others have a real impact on how easy the crib is to operate and maintain. Certain features, like drop sides and finials are not safe and should not be used. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.

One thing to be aware of is that a crib is meant only for infant sleep and is not an ideal place to store toys or clothes. You can also include a crib in your registry to seek assistance from family and friends when you need one.

Cribs come in many different styles, but we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks gorgeous. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is a must-have for any baby product that is non-toxic and can be converted into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).

Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a classy crib that fits well into big nursery spaces, but it takes up more floor space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some might find distracting. It only has three levels of mattress, which is half the number offered by competitors. It's not as durable as our other choices.

Another option that has a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you to see baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of 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 certified GOLD and comes with a mattress. It's worth noting, however, that it's more expensive than our other top ranked cribs selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is essential that your baby's crib mattress is at the correct height. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your baby from overheating or suffocation.

A quality crib will include slats that can be adjusted or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit that allows you can turn the crib into a toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. It is also a good idea to pick a crib that is tested and certified by a third-party organisation. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee 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 easy to put together, with a straightforward layout that doesn't contain any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than many other models however one tester reported that her baby did well sleeping in it and was still in good shape when she gave it to a friend following the birth of her second child was born.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a modern style. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however it is durable and has numerous features that make up the price. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed. It also has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create an environment more akin to a womb your baby. It adds a fashionable touch in any nursery.

This crib is not equipped with mattresses. You will need to buy one separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that can grow with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.

No dangling or chewable parts

The safest cribs are those that have no dangling or chewable components. If something is hung above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or create a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other items, they must make sure they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.

In addition to the safety features of our top cribs for infants, we also consider how simple it is to assemble. The ideal crib will be easy enough to be able to do it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or long assembly time. Most parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour and the included instructions are usually simple and easy to follow.

It's important that you choose the right crib that will last for many years. Pick a crib that can be transformed from a crib to an adult bed, and later a full-size mattress.

Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can be used as an infant bassinet during the first months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a variety 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 beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile so that petite parents can touch their child to calm them. It is renowned for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made 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 that is missing is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last for a long time.