This Is The New Big Thing In 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 with so many different styles and security concerns.
Choose a crib that adheres to the most stringent safety standards and has no chewable or dangling parts. We also suggest a crib with a broad range of mattress height settings and a modern design that is in line with your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your baby's crib. It is important to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your child that could potentially cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Your Baby Crib should not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. These items can easily get caught between the crib bars or get stuck in them. They may also be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cot newborn infant cribs are made of safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal laws, state and local regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They are also designed to be durable and convertible, so they can grow along with your child.
It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can lose their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and heavy use, posing serious risks to your infant.
The slats of your crib should not be more than 3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secure. It's also a good idea to check the slats and the rims of the mattress support for any broken or loose components.
It's best crib to avoid cribs that were used by pets or children in the past, as their security could be at risk. Also, don't purchase or accept an older crib that has an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for security reasons.
Style
While all cribs must meet strict safety standards, you'll find a lot of design differences. Some are just cosmetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others could make it difficult to clean and use the crib. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should not be used and others, like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are desirable for many parents.
One thing to keep in mind is that a crib is meant solely for sleep for infants and is not an ideal place to store toys or clothes. It's also an excellent idea to include a crib on your registry to ensure that family and friends can lend a hand to help you get one when the time comes.
Cribs are available in a variety of different styles However, we prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks stunning. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified, which we think is a must for any toxic-free product. It can be transformed into a daybed and toddler with a separate conversion kit.
Other cribs are more traditional, 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 when compared to smaller minimalist options. It only has three levels of mattress which is a fraction of the competition's number. It's also not as sturdy as our other picks.
Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. 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 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 GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. It's important to note, however it's more expensive than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the right level. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also safeguard your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise the mattress or lower it as your child grows. Most good cribs (relevant internet page) will also include a conversion kit so you can transform the crib into the toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. It is recommended for you to choose a 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 that your baby's crib is not contaminated of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib has a simple design and no complicated parts. It is one of the most highly-rated cribs. The crib's sides are shorter than the other models. However, one test subject said that their child slept well and the crib was in good shape when she gave it to a friend as her second child.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic 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 to make up for the cost. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet or a toddler bed, and it comes with wheels that make it easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more womb-like environment for your baby. It's also an elegant 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 and comfortable crib that can expand with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.
No Dangling or Chewable Parts
The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hung above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to be pulled or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they must ensure that the items are securely fastened and are not within Baby's reach.
In addition to the security features of our best cribs for babies, we look at how easy it is to set up. The ideal crib will be easy enough that you can build it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or extensive assembly time. The majority of parents say that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour and the included instructions are usually clear and easy to follow.
A crib is a major purchase for most new parents, which is why it's important to find one that will last for a long time to come. For longevity, opt for a convertible crib that can start at the beginning of your child's life all the way to a toddler bed and finally a full-size bed.
Our top pick 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 into a toddler bed, Nursery Cots daybed, and full-size bed. It is designed to last and comes in a variety of colors, so you can match it to your nursery's design theme.
Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib is low-profile which makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and soothe them. It also has a great reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry espresso, natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of 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 missing is a toddler rail which you can purchase separately. This is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality, affordable crib that will last for a long time.