The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is an crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. However, choosing a suitable crib can be a daunting task, especially with so many different styles and safety concerns.

Choose a crib that adheres to the most stringent safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a crib with a wide choice of mattress heights and a modern design that is in line with your style.

Safety

When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, make sure you follow the safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to not place any items in your baby's crib that could potentially cause injury or harm such as blankets, pillows, sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Also, your baby should not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. They could slide between the crib bars or get stuck in them. They may also get taken up by the mattress.

The best infant cribs are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also meet strict federal, state and local standards for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They're designed to be durable and convertible so they can grow with your child.

Whether you're buying new or used, it's important to select cribs that meet today's rigorous safety standards. Used cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to age, humidity and frequent use, posing grave dangers to your child.

The crib's slats should not be 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. It's also a good idea to examine the mattress support rims and slats for broken or loose parts.

It is best to stay clear of cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, since their security could be at risk. Do not purchase or purchase the crib that has drop-side rails. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.

Style

Although all cribs must comply with strict safety standards, you'll find a lot of design differences. Some are just aesthetic, such as if the slats are identical in length or are spaced closer than others, while others have a real impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Some features, like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used as well. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are desirable for many parents.

A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place for babies to sleep. You can also include a crib on your registry to receive help from family and friends when you need one.

Cribs are available in a variety of different styles, but we prefer those that combine style with functionality. For instance the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is an essential feature for any toxic-free baby product, and it can convert into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).

Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a grand crib that fits well into large nursery spaces, however it takes up more floor space than the 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 Best Cot Beds it's not as sturdy as some of our other picks.

Another option that has a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and make it easier to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised higher to ease colic and reflux. This is suitable for babies aged 6 months and the birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a mattress. It's important to note, however it's more expensive than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

When your baby is sleeping in their crib, it is important that the mattress is the correct height. This ensures that your child doesn't fall out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also safeguard your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.

A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise or lower it as your child grows. The majority of cribs include a conversion kit that allows you can transform the crib into a toddler bed or daybed after your baby outgrows it. It's also best to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organisation to ensure safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to ensure there aren't any chemicals or finishes present in your cheap baby cots for sale's sleep space.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs available and it's easy to assemble, with a straightforward design that doesn't have any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than many other models however, one user stated that her baby slept well in it and remained in good condition when she gave it to a friend after her second child was born.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary appearance. It's more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it is durable and has many features that make up the cost. It is able to be converted into an infant bed or a bassinet, and it has wheels to make it easy to move. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more child-like space for your baby. It also adds a stylish touch to any nursery.

The only issue with this crib is that it doesn't come with a mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will expand with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Components

The safest cribs have no chewable or dangling components. If something is hung over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decorate their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should ensure that the items are secured tightly and aren't in the reach of Baby.

In addition to the safety features of our top cribs for infants, we also take into consideration how easy it is to set up. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or a large amount of time. Many parents report that the process of assembling a modern crib can take less than a half hour, and the included instructions are usually simple and easy to follow.

A crib will be a major purchase for most new parents, which is why it is essential to choose one that will last for many years to be. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib into an infant's bed, and later a full-size mattress.

Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib that can be used to replace a bassinet for those early months, and later convert into a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size Cot Bed. It's designed to last and comes in many colors so you can match it to the theme of your nursery's decor.

Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile to ensure that petite parents can reach their child to calm them. It is well-known for its quality, and is available in white, cherry and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental protection, and it's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also far exceeds safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing not included is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great choice for those who are looking for a quality crib that is affordable cots and built to last.