The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is an important piece for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable crib can be a daunting task especially when you consider the many different designs and security concerns.

Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling parts. We also suggest a crib that has a broad range of mattress height settings and a stylish design that matches your style.

Safety

Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your child's crib. It is essential to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows, sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. These items can easily fall between your baby's crib bars or become stuck within them. They may also be taken up by the mattress.

The best cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also comply with strict federal laws, local and state regulations for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested 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 grow with your child.

If you're buying a new crib or used, it's important to select cribs that meet today's strict safety standards. Secondhand cribs can be damaged in their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and frequent use, posing serious risks to your infant.

The slats of your crib should be no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware on the crib must be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any broken or loose components.

It's also wise to avoid using cribs that were used by children or pets, as their safety might have been compromised. Finally, don't purchase 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 due to reasons of safety.

Style

There are many design differences between cribs beds, despite the fact that all must be safe to use standards. Some are just aesthetic, such as if the slats are of the same length or spaced closer apart and others have a real impact on how easy the crib is to operate and maintain. Certain features, Cots Offers such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are desirable for many parents.

One important thing to remember is that the crib should be used exclusively for sleeping infants and is not an ideal place to store clothes or toys. You can also put the crib on your registry to get help from family and friends when you need one.

Cribs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes However, the ones we like best are those that combine style and function. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is essential for any toxic-free baby product and it's able to convert into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).

Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It is a stylish option that can fit in large nurseries. However, it takes up more floor space when compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. It has only three levels of mattress which is a fraction of the number of competitors. It's also not as sturdy as our other picks.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a modern design. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised higher to alleviate colic and reflux. This is suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress that is also a match. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top picks and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is crucial that your baby's crib mattress is of the correct height. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.

A good crib will have adjustable slats or railings that let you raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. A conversion kit is provided in the majority of cribs, to allow you to convert it into a daybed or toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. It's also best infant cribs to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organisation for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee your baby's crib is not contaminated of chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the best-rated cribs available, and it's easy to assemble and features a simple design that doesn't have any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than the other models. However, one parent tester reported that her child slept well and the crib was in good condition when she gave it to a friend as her second baby.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary appearance. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, but its quality and features make up for it. It can, for instance, be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed and has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It comes with a canopy that can be used to create a space more akin to a womb your baby. This is a chic accent to any nursery.

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

No Dangling or Chewable Parts

The safest cribs have no chewable or dangling parts. If something is hanging above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they must ensure that the items are securely fastened and are not within Baby's reach.

We also examine how easy it is to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without requiring special tools or spending a lot of time. The majority of parents say that assembling a modern crib takes less than a half hour, and the instructions included are usually clear and 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 be. For longevity, opt for a convertible crib that can start at the beginning of your child's life all the way to an adult bed and then a full-size bed.

Our top choice for a 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 to a toddler bed daybed, and a full-size bed. It's designed for Cribs the long haul and is available in a variety of colors which makes it easy to match with your nursery's theme.

Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent alternative. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and calm their child. It has a good reputation for quality, and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail which you can buy separately. This is a great option for those looking for a high-quality, affordable crib that will last.