How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is among the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. However, choosing a suitable crib can be a daunting task particularly with the number of different styles and security concerns.

Look for a crib that has the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling parts. We recommend a crib with a broad choice of mattress heights and a stylish design that complements your style.


Safety

Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when setting up and arranging your baby's crib. It is essential to stay clear of putting anything in your baby's crib which could cause injury or harm, including pillows, blankets, sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Also, your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. They could fall between your baby's crib bars or become stuck in them. They may also be taken in by the mattress.

The best cribs for infants are made of safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also comply with strict federal laws, local and state requirements 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 last and are flexible, allowing them to grow with your child.

It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. cot for sale Cots 4 Tots UK can have their structural integrity weakened due to aging, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose serious dangers to your baby.

The slats of your crib should be spaced 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 secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any broken or loose components.

It's also wise to stay clear of cribs that were used by other children and/or pets, since their safety could be compromised. Don't buy or buy a second-hand crib with a drop side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to safety reasons.

Style

While all cribs have to comply with strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some are purely aesthetic, like whether the slats are all the same length or placed closer together and others have a significant impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Some features like finials and drop sides are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, such as adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are sought-after by many parents.

One thing to be aware of is that a crib should be used only for infant sleep, so it's not an area to store toys or clothing. It's also recommended to put the crib on your registry so that your family and friends can assist you in getting one when the time arrives.

Cribs come in a variety of shapes and sizes However, the ones we prefer have a mix of style and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and stylish. 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 and daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).

Some cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It is a stylish option that will fit into large nurseries. However, it takes up more space than smaller minimalist options. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half the competition and it's not as sturdy as some of our other picks.

Another option with a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and make it easier to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can also be raised to a higher position to ease colic and reflux, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress that is also a match. It's worth noting, however it's more expensive than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is the right height. This will ensure that your child can't climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your baby from overheating or suffocation.

A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit is provided in the majority of cribs, to allow you to convert it into a toddler bed or daybed when your child is no longer in the crib. It's also recommended to select a crib that has been tested and approved by a third party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee the crib of your baby is free of any 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 include any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are smaller than most cribs however, one user said that her child was comfortable in it and remained in good shape when she passed it on to a friend following the birth of her second child.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great alternative. It features an oval shape that gives it a modern look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs but its quality and features are worth it. For instance, it can be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed and is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be utilized to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It also adds an elegant look to any nursery.

This crib does not come with mattress. You'll need to buy one separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that will adapt to your child's needs as they grow from infant to toddler.

There are no dangling or chewable ingredients.

The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grasp objects, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them, it could pull on the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other items, they must ensure that the items are securely secured and aren't in the reach of Baby.

We also consider how it is easy to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be easy enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or a large amount of time. Many parents report 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 is an important purchase for many new parents, and it's important to find one that will last for years to come. For longevity, opt for an adjustable crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life until the toddler bed, and then an adult-sized bed.

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 larger bed. It is designed to last and is available in many colors so you can match it with the theme of your nursery's decor.

Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib is low-profile which makes it easier for petite parents to touch their child and comfort them. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry espresso, natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means that it is constructed 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 missing is a toddler rail which you can buy separately. This is a great option for those who are seeking a top-quality crib that is affordable and built to last.