How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an extremely crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable one can feel overwhelming especially when you consider the many different styles and safety concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a sleek crib that has a variety of mattress heights and modern, sleek design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your baby's crib. It is important to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could potentially cause injury or harm, including pillows, blankets and sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. They could easily fall into or get trapped between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The most suitable cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also comply with strict federal laws, local and state standards for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). They're also designed to be durable and convertible, meaning they'll grow with your child.
It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a new or used crib. Secondhand cribs could become less sturdy over time due to humidity, age and frequent use. This could pose serious risks to your baby.
The slats on your crib should be spaced no more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep infants from getting wedged 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 is also advisable to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets, as their security could have been compromised. Don't buy or accept an older crib that has a drop side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for safety reasons.
Style
There are a lot of variations in the design of cribs, despite the fact that they all must be safe to use standards. Some are just cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Certain features, like drop sides and finials aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib isn't designed 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 in the event that you require one.
Cribs are available in many different styles We prefer those that combine design and function. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider an essential feature for any product that is free of toxics, and it can convert into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).
Some cribs feature an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that can be incorporated into large nursery spaces, however it occupies more space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels, which is less than half of the competition and 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 increase airflow and allow you to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher level to help reduce colic and reflux which makes it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It's GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than the other top choices, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is the right level. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be dangerous or fatal. A higher mattress can also safeguard your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A quality crib should have slats or railings that are adjustable that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. The majority of cribs come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed when your child is no longer using it. In the end, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and approved by a third party organization to ensure safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is not contaminated of finishes or chemicals.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the best-rated cribs available and it's easy to put together, with a straightforward design that doesn't have any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than other cribs, but one parent tester stated that her baby slept well in it, and was in good condition when she gave it to a friend following the birth of her second child.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a contemporary look. It's a bit more expensive than most cribs, but it's durable and comes with a number of features that make up the price. It can be easily transformed into a toddler bed or bassinet and has wheels that make it easy to move. It also has a canopy that can be used to create an environment more akin to a womb your baby. This adds a stylish design to any nursery.
The only downside to this crib is that it doesn't include mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they go from newborn to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or hanging components. If something is hung above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or cause strangulation. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they should make sure that the items are securely fastened and are not within Baby's reach.
We also examine how it is easy to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a long amount of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than an hour to assemble an modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.
A crib is a major purchase for most new parents, so it's crucial to find one that will last for many years to be. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib into a toddler's bed, and then a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet during the early years and later transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a full-size bed. It's built to last and comes in a variety of colors so that you can match it to the theme of your nursery's decor.
Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and calm their child. It also has a great reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors as well as 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 surpasses standards set by the government such as 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 looking for an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last for a long time.