The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is one of the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. However, picking a suitable crib can be overwhelming, especially with so many various styles and safety concerns.

Look for a crib that adheres to the most stringent safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a chic crib with a variety of mattress sizes and modern, sleek design.

Safety

When assembling and positioning your baby's crib make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is essential to avoid putting any items 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 other stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items could easily slide between the crib bars or become trapped in them. They may also be swallowed by the mattress.

The best recommended cribs for infants are made of safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal 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 certs!). They're designed to be sustainable and flexible, allowing them to expand with your child.

It's crucial to choose a crib that meets current safety standards, no matter if you're buying a brand new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may be weakened in the course of time due to humidity, age and use. This can pose serious risks to your baby.

The slats of your crib should be spaced no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep infants from getting wedged between them and the hardware on the crib must be secured. It's also a good idea to check the mattress support rims and slats for any loose or broken components.

It's best to avoid cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, as their security could have been compromised. Don't buy or purchase an older crib that has the drop side rail which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for reasons of safety.

Style

Although all cribs must comply with strict safety standards, there are numerous design variations. Some differences are purely cosmetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can make it difficult to use and clean the crib. Some features like drop sides and finials are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress height and wheels, are sought-after by many parents.

A crib isn't intended to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place where babies can sleep. It's also an excellent idea to include the crib on your list to ensure that family and friends can help you purchase one when the time comes.

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

Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stately choice that can be incorporated into big nursery spaces, but it takes up more floor space than the smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some might find distracting. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels, which is less than half the competition and it's not as sturdy as some of our other options.

Another option that has modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and the birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's worth noting, though it's more costly than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is essential that the mattress on your baby's crib is at the correct height. This ensures that your child can't climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your child from suffocation or overheating.

A quality crib will include slats that can be adjusted or railings to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. A majority of cribs include a conversion kit that allows you can convert the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your baby outgrows it. It's also best 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 that the crib of your baby is free of finishes or chemicals.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the top-rated cribs on the market, and it's simple to put together and has a simple design that doesn't have any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than other cribs however, one user said that her child was comfortable in it, and was in good shape when she passed it on to a relative after the birth of her second child.

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

This crib is not equipped with mattress. You will need to purchase one separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can expand with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.

No Chewable or Dangling Parts

The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling parts. If something is hung over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to pull or create a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other objects, they should make sure the items are secured tightly and not in reach of Baby.

We also look at how easy it is to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble by yourself, without requiring special tools or a large amount of time. Most parents report that it takes less than an hour to assemble the modern crib, and the directions are generally easy to follow.

A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, and it is essential to choose one that will last for years to come. Pick a crib that can be transformed from a crib into an infant's bed, and later a full-size mattress.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet for the early years and later converted into an infant bed, a daybed or Baby cot a larger cheap cot bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a range of colors, making it easy to match your nursery's theme.

Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent alternative. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a low profile that allows parents who are small to touch their child and comfort their child. It has a good reputation 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 from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing not included is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a good option for those looking for an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last.