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, picking a suitable crib can be overwhelming especially when you consider the many different styles and security concerns.

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

Safety

When assembling and arranging your baby’s crib, make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to avoid putting any items in the crib of your child that could potentially cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets and sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items can easily fall into or become caught between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed by the mattress.

The most suitable cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also meet strict federal, state and local standards for structural safety. They’re also tested by a third party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). They’re designed to be durable and flexible, allowing them to expand with your child.

Whether you’re buying new or used, it’s essential to choose a crib that meets the current stringent safety standards. Used cribs can lose structural integrity over time due to age, humidity and heavy use. This can create serious risks for your baby.

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

It is best to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, since their security could have been compromised. Do not purchase or purchase a crib with drop-side rails. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.

Style

While all cribs must meet strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some are just cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others could impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Certain features, like finials and drop sides are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, like adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.

One thing to be aware of is that a crib should be used exclusively for sleeping infants, so it’s not an ideal place to store clothes or toys. It’s also recommended to put a crib on your registry so that your family and friends can assist you in getting one when the time arrives.

Cribs are available in a variety of different styles However, we prefer those that combine style with functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks great. It’s also GREENGUARD gold-certified which we believe is essential for any product that is non-toxic. It can be converted to a daybed or toddler with a separate conversion kit.

Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It’s a stylish choice that can fit in large nursery. However, it takes up more floor space compared to smaller minimalist options. It only has three levels of mattress which is a fraction of the number of competitors. It’s not as durable as our other picks.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and allow you to observe baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised to ease colic and reflux. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and birth. It’s also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It’s important to note, however it’s more expensive than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

When your baby is sleeping in their crib, it is important that the mattress is at the correct height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help protect your baby from suffocating or overheating.

A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. A conversion kit is included in the majority of cribs, so that you can convert it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. In the end, it’s a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third-party organization for safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to ensure that there are no harmful chemical or other finishes in your baby’s sleep space.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features a simple design and no complicated parts. It is one of the top cribs. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than many other models, but one parent tester reported that her baby slept well in it, and was in good shape when she passed it on to a relative after 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 look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs but its durability and features make up for it. It can, for instance, be converted 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 like a womb for your baby and adds a stylish touch to any nursery.

The only issue with this crib is that it doesn’t include an additional mattress, which you’ll need to purchase separately. However, it’s a secure and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child’s needs from infant to toddler.

No dangling or chewable parts

The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decorate their crib with toys or decorative items, they must ensure that they secure the items and not in reach of Baby.

In addition to the security features of our best infant cribs, we also take into consideration how easy it is to put together. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough that you can do it yourself, and doesn’t require any special tools or extensive assembly time. The majority of parents say that the process of assembling a modern crib can take 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 important to find one that will last for a long time to come. Pick a crib that can be converted from a crib into an adult bed, and then a full-size mattress.

Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can replace the bassinet in the early months, and then be converted to a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It’s designed for the long haul and is available in a variety of colors that make 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, minimalist-style crib is low-profile to ensure that parents with small feet can reach their child and calm them. It is well-known for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of toxins like lead and phthalates. It also far exceeds government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail, which you can purchase separately. This is a great choice for those who are seeking a top-quality, affordable crib that will last.