How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is a very essential piece of furniture for the nursery of your baby. It isn't easy to select the best crib, given numerous styles and safety concerns.
Look for cribs that meet the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a crib with a wide choice of mattress heights and a modern design that matches your style.
Safety
When assembling and positioning your baby's crib, be sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is crucial to avoid putting any items in the crib of your child that could potentially cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows and sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Also, your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. These items can easily get caught between the crib bars or be stuck in them. They may also be taken in by the mattress.
The best infant cribs are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They are also designed to be tough and convertible, so they can grow along with your child.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's crucial to choose cribs that meet today's strict safety standards. Used cribs can lose structural integrity over time due to the effects of humidity, age and use. This could create serious risks for your baby.
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 should be secure. Examine the slats, mattress support rims and the hardware for any loose or damaged components.
It's also recommended to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children or pets, since their safety might have been compromised. Also, don't purchase or accept a second-hand crib with a drop side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to security reasons.
Style
While all cribs have to comply with strict safety standards, there are numerous design variations. Some of the differences are cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others could affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Certain features such as drop sides and finials aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, such as adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are coveted by a lot of parents.
A crib is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be an area where babies can sleep. You can also put a crib in your registry to get assistance from family and friends when you need one.
Cribs are available in a variety of different styles We prefer ones that blend design and function. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks gorgeous. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider essential for any toxic-free baby product and can be converted into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs sport more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It is a stylish option that can fit in large nursery. However, it occupies more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. It only has three levels of mattress, which is half the number offered by competitors. It's also not as sturdy as our other picks.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern aesthetic. The Babyletto Hudson's mesh all-around and hidden hardware enhance airflow and Dr. Casares believes that this is a feature that many new parents will appreciate. It can be raised higher to ease colic and reflux. This is suitable for babies who are 6 months and the birth. It's GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's worth noting, though it's more expensive than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
When your baby is sleeping in their crib, it is important that the mattress is the right level. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which can be fatal or dangerous. A higher mattress can also protect your baby from suffocation or overheating.
A good crib will have adjustable slats or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your infant grows. A conversion kit is included with most good cribs so that you can convert it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. It's also a good idea for you to choose the crib that is tested and certified by a third-party institution. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee your baby's crib is free of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the top-rated cribs available, and it's simple to put together and features a simple layout that doesn't contain any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than the other models. However, one parent test subject said that their child was sleeping well and the crib was still in good shape when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great option. It has an oval shape, which gives it a modern look. It's more expensive than other cribs, however it's durable and comes with numerous features that make up the cost. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet or a toddler bed, and it is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create an environment that resembles a womb for your baby. It adds a fashionable design to any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is that it doesn't include a mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that will grow with your child from a newborn to a toddler.
No Chewable or Dangling Parts
The safest cribs have no chewable or hanging components. If something is hanging over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to be pulled or cause strangulation. Babies are extremely grabbing. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they should make sure that the items are securely fastened and out of baby's reach.
We also look at how easy it is to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or spending a large amount of time. Many parents report that it takes less than an hour to put together a modern crib, and the instructions are generally easy to follow.
It is crucial to choose the right crib that will last for many years. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib into an adult bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can be used as the bassinet in the early months, then convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and a full-size bed. It's built to last and is available in many colors so you can match it with your nursery's design theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile which makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and calm their child. It also has a great reputation for quality and is available in white, cherry, espresso, and natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of toxins like lead and phthalates. It also surpasses all government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail, which you can buy separately. This is a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.