How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is a very crucial piece for the nursery of your baby. It isn't easy to pick the ideal crib, due to numerous styles and safety concerns.

Find a crib that meets the most stringent safety standards and has no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a stylish crib with a range of mattress sizes and modern, sleek design.

Safety

When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is crucial to stay clear of putting anything in the crib of your Baby Cot that could cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Also, your baby 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 trapped in them. They may also get taken in by the mattress.

The best cribs for babies are made of materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also meet strict federal laws, state and local standards for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They are also designed to be tough and convertible, meaning they'll continue to grow with your child.

No matter if you're buying new or used, it's important to choose cribs that meet today's rigorous safety standards. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to humidity, age and heavy use, posing serious risks to your infant.

The slats of your crib should be spaced no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep babies from getting trapped between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secure. It's also a good idea to inspect the slats and mattress support rims for any broken or loose components.

It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that were used by other children or pets, as their security might have been compromised. Don't buy or accept cribs with a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.

Style

There are a lot of design differences between cribs, despite the fact that all have to meet safety standards. Some are just aesthetic, like whether the slats are the same length or spaced closer than others and others have an impact on how easy the crib is to operate and maintain. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should not be used as well. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are highly sought-after by many parents.

A crib isn't intended to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place for babies to sleep. It's also recommended to put the crib on your list so that your family and friends can help you purchase one when the time arrives.

Cribs come in many different styles, but we prefer ones that blend style with functionality. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified, which we think is essential for any toxic-free product. It can be turned into a daybed and toddler by converting it with a separate kit.

Other cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a chic option that can be incorporated into larger nursery. However, it occupies more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives. Furthermore, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half the alternatives, and it's not as sturdy as our other options.

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 aspect for new parents. It can be raised higher to ease colic and reflux. This is suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's worth noting, however, that it's more expensive than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

If your Baby Crib sleeps in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is the correct level. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be risky or even fatal. A higher mattress can also safeguard your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.

A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your child grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can transform the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your little one outgrows it. It is recommended for you to choose the crib that has been 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 one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's easy to assemble and features a simple layout that doesn't contain any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are smaller than other cribs however one tester reported that her baby was comfortable in it and remained in good shape when she passed it on to a friend after her second child.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic option. It has an oval shape, which creates a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however its durability 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 has a canopy that can be used to create a space more akin to a womb your baby. It adds a fashionable accent to any nursery.

This crib does not come with mattresses. You'll need to purchase a mattress separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from newborn to toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Components

The most secure cribs are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies like to grab objects, and if something is hanging from or above their crib, it could snag off the rails or become an injury to strangulation. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other objects, they should ensure that they secure the items and aren't within reach of Baby beds.

We also consider how it is easy to build our top infant cribs. The crib should be easy enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or a long amount of time. The majority of parents say that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour, and the instructions included are usually clear and easy to follow.

It is crucial to choose the right crib that will last for many years. To ensure longevity, you should choose a convertible crib that will work from infancy until 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 replace an infant bassinet during the first months, and then be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It's made for long-term use and is available in a variety of colors that make it easy to match your nursery's 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 that makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and calm them. It is renowned for its quality, and is available in cherry, white and espresso 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 the government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail that you can purchase separately. This is a good option for those who want an affordable, high-quality, and low-cost crib that will last.