Best Infant Cribs: What's The Only Thing Nobody Has Discussed
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs A crib is among the most essential items for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good one can feel overwhelming, especially with so many different designs and security concerns. Find a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and has no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a crib with a wide choice of mattress heights and a sleek design that complements your style. Safety When assembling and setting up your baby's crib make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm to your baby's nursery. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also, avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys, and blankets. Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. These items can easily fall into or be stuck between your baby and the crib bars or be swallowed by the mattress. The best cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal, state and local regulations for structural safety. They're also third-party tested to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They're also designed to last and are adaptable, so they can grow with your child. It's crucial to choose a crib which meets the current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to humidity, age and frequent use, posing serious risks to your infant. The slats on your crib should not exceed 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secured. Examine the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any loose or damaged components. It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their safety may be compromised. Don't buy or purchase an older crib that has an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for reasons of safety. Style There are a lot of design differences between cribs, despite the fact that all must meet safety standards. Some are just cosmetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others could make it difficult to clean and use the crib. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should be avoided and others, like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels—are highly sought-after by many parents. One thing to be aware of is that a crib should be used only for infant sleep It's not a place to store clothes or toys. You can also include the crib on your registry to get help from friends and family in the event you need help. nursery cots are available in a variety of different styles However, we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks gorgeous. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider an essential feature for any product that is free of toxics and can be converted into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately). Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stylish choice that can fit in large nurseries. However, it takes up more floor space compared to smaller, minimalist alternatives. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half the competition, and it's not as sturdy as our other choices. The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and allow you to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised higher to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and the birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress that is also a match. It's worth noting, though it's more expensive than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit. Adjustable Mattress Height When your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's important that the mattress is the right level. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your child 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 the majority of cribs so that you can convert it into a toddler bed or daybed after your child has outgrown the crib. It's also a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organization to ensure 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 finishes or chemicals. The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib 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 many other models however, one user stated that her baby slept well in it and was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend after her second child. Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary style. It's a little more expensive than other cribs, however its durability and features make up for it. It can be easily converted into a toddler bed or bassinet, and it has wheels to make it easy to move. It also comes with a canopy that can be utilized to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It also adds an elegant touch to any nursery. The only issue with 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 transition from infant to toddler. No Dangling or Chewable Components The most secure cribs are free of 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 ornaments or toys, they must ensure that the items are securely secured and are not within Baby's reach. In addition to the safety features of our best cribs for infants, we also look at how easy it is to assemble. The ideal crib will be simple enough that you can make it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or long assembly time. Many parents report that it takes less than an hour to put together an modern crib, and the instructions are generally simple to follow. A crib will be an important purchase for many new parents, which is why it's important to find one that will last for a long time to be. To ensure longevity, you should choose a convertible crib that will work from infancy all the way up to an adult bed and then a full-size bed. Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can be used as a bassinet for those early months, then convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It's made for long-term use and comes in a variety of colors, making it easy to match your nursery's theme. Stork Craft Equinox is another great option. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and calm them. It is renowned for quality and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors. This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental protection, and it's made from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins like lead and phthalates (BPA). It also surpasses all safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is not included is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.