How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is a very important piece for the nursery of your baby. It isn't easy to select the best crib, given so many styles and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling parts. We also suggest a crib with a wide selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that matches your style.
Safety
When assembling and arranging your baby's crib, be sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm to your baby's nursery. This includes blankets, pillows, and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. They could easily fall into or get trapped between your baby and the crib bars, or be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal laws, state and local requirements for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). And they are designed to be durable and adaptable, so they can adapt to your child's needs.
It's crucial to choose a crib that meets current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs can be weakened in the course of time due to the effects of humidity, age and use. This could pose serious risks to your baby.
The slats of your crib should be no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep infants from getting wedged between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secure. It's also a good idea to check the mattress support rims and slats for broken or loose components.
It is best to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, as their safety could have been compromised. Finally, don't purchase or accept a secondhand crib that has the drop side rail which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for reasons of safety.
Style
There are many design differences between cribs, despite the fact that they all have to meet safety standards. Some differences are purely cosmetic, like whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced farther than others, and some can affect how easy it is to clean and use the crib. Some features like finials and drop sides are not safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress height and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.
One important thing to remember is that the crib should be used exclusively for sleeping infants, so it's not a place to store clothes or toys. It's also recommended to put the crib on your registry so that friends and family can help you get one when the time arrives.
Cribs come in all shapes and sizes, but the ones we prefer have a mix of style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks gorgeous. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified, which we think is essential for any product that is free of toxics. It can be converted into a daybed and toddler with a separate conversion kit.
Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a chic option that can be incorporated into larger nurseries. However, it takes up more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. It only has three mattress levels which is a fraction of the competition's number. It's not as sturdy as our other picks.
Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and allow you to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be raised to a higher height to alleviate reflux and colic and colic, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It's GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes an additional mattress. It's important to remember that this bed is more expensive than the other top options and requires a separate conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's important that the mattress is the correct level. This will ensure that your child isn't able to climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help protect your baby from suffocating or overheating.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. The majority of cribs include a conversion kit so you can convert the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your baby outgrows it. In the end, it's best to choose a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third party organisation to ensure safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that your baby's crib is free of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs on the market, and it's simple to put together, with a straightforward layout that doesn't contain any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than other models. However, one parent test subject said that their child slept well and the crib was in good shape when she gave it to a friend for her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great alternative. It has an oval shape, which creates a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs but its durability and features are worth it. It can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or bassinet and has wheels to make it simple to move around. It has a canopy which can be used to create an environment that resembles a womb for your baby. It adds a fashionable touch in any nursery.
The crib doesn't come with mattress. You will need to buy one separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that can expand with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable components.
The safest cribs do not have chewable or dangling parts. If something is hanging above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to pull or cause strangulation. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other items, they must ensure that the items are secured tightly and aren't within reach of Baby.
We also look at how it is easy to build our top cribs for infants. The crib should be simple enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a long amount of 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 is crucial to choose the right crib that will last for many years. Choose a crib that can be converted from a crib into an infant's bed, and then a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet in the early years and later converted into a toddler bed, a daybed or a large bed. It's designed to last and is available in a variety of colors, so you can match it with the theme of your nursery's decor.
Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib is low-profile which makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and calm their child. 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 from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also exceeds government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that's missing is a toddler rail, which you can purchase separately. This is a great choice for those seeking a top-quality affordable crib that will last for a long time.