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How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is among the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. However, choosing a suitable one can feel overwhelming particularly with the number of different designs and security concerns.

Find a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and includes no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a crib with a broad selection of mattress heights and a sleek design that matches 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 avoid putting any items in the crib of your baby that could cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows as well as sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could easily fall into or get caught between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be engulfed by the mattress.

The best cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal, state and local standards for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certs!). They're also designed to be durable and flexible, allowing them to expand with your child.

It is essential to select a crib which meets the current safety standards, whether you're buying a brand new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can have their structural integrity weakened due to aging, humidity and prolonged use, which can pose serious risks to your infant.

The slats on your crib should be no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware that is on the crib should be secured. It's an excellent idea to check the slats and the rims of the mattress support for any broken or loose parts.

It's also recommended to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, since their safety could have been compromised. Finally, don't purchase or purchase an older crib that has an incline side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to security reasons.

Style

Although all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, you'll find a lot of design differences. Some are just aesthetic, like whether the slats are the same length or placed closer than others, while others have an impact on the ease of the crib to use and maintain. Certain features, such as drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should be avoided as well. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels/casters 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. It's also recommended to put the crib on your registry so that your family and friends can lend a hand to help you get one when the time comes.

Cribs come in many different styles However, we prefer those that combine style with functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is essential for any baby product that is non-toxic and it's able to convert into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).

Other cribs have an older-style look, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a classy crib that fits well into large nurseries, but it takes up more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some find distracting. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels which is less than half of the other options and it's not as sturdy as some of our other choices.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a modern design. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can be raised 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 complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top picks, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler cot beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is crucial that the crib mattress of your baby is at the correct height. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your child from overheating 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 include a conversion kit that allows you can transform the crib into the toddler bed or daybed after your baby outgrows it. Finally, it's recommended cribs 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 your baby's crib 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 layout that doesn't contain any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are shorter than the other models. However, one test subject said that their child slept well and the crib was in good condition when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another fantastic alternative. It features an oval shape, which creates a modern appearance. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its durability and features are worth it. For Cot sales example, it can be transformed into a bassinet or a toddler bed, and it has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be utilized to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It also adds an elegant look to any nursery.

The only drawback to this crib is that it doesn't come with an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that can grow with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.

No Chewable or Dangling Parts

The safest cribs have no chewable or dangling parts. If something is hung over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to be pulled or create a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decorate their crib with toys or decorative objects, they should make sure the items are securely secured and aren't within reach of Baby.

In addition to the safety features of our top cribs for infants, we also consider how simple it is to set up. The crib should be easy enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or a large amount of time. Most parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour and the instructions included are usually simple and easy to follow.

A crib is the most expensive purchase for new parents, which is why it is essential to choose 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 up to a toddler bed and finally an adult-sized bed.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet in the early years and later converted into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a range of colors that make it easy to match your nursery design theme.

Another great crib option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that allows parents who are small to reach their child and calm their child. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry, espresso, and natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety. It's made 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 want an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last.