How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an crucial piece for your baby's nursery. However, picking a suitable crib can be a daunting task, especially with so many various styles and security concerns.
Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, with no dangling or chewable parts. We recommend a crib that has a broad selection of mattress heights and a stylish 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 essential to avoid putting any items in the crib of your child that could cause harm or injury including blankets, pillows and 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 get caught between the crib bars or become stuck within them. They could also be taken in by the mattress.
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/7098/756/graco-sweet2sleep-bedside-bassinet-crib-keeping-baby-close-to-you-with-easy-access-side-rail-11-height-adjustments-4-tilt-positions-and-with-carrybag-oatmeal-fashion-756.jpg)The best baby cots cribs for infants are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal, state and local regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, Cheap Baby Cots For Sale JMPA or CPSIA certificates!) They are also designed to be tough and reversible, which means they'll continue to grow with your child.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's crucial to select a crib that meets today's strict safety standards. Secondhand cribs can have their structural integrity weakened due to age, humidity and heavy use, posing serious dangers to your baby.
The slats on your crib should not be longer than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secured. Examine the slats, mattress support rims and hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It's also wise to avoid using cribs that were used by other children or pets, as their safety could have been compromised. Don't buy or accept the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/7098/2575/c/obaby-maya-mini-pine-wood-cot-bed-natural-with-white-2575-medium.jpg)There are many different designs of cribs, even though they all must be safe to use standards. Some are simply aesthetic, such as whether the slats are of identical in length or are spaced closer together and others have an impact on how easy the crib is to use and maintain. Certain features such as finials and drop sides are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, like adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by a lot of parents.
One thing to be aware of is that a crib should be used exclusively for sleeping infants, so it's not a place to store clothes or toys. It's also recommended to put the crib on your list so that friends and family can pitch in to help you purchase one when the time comes.
Cribs are available in many different styles, but we prefer those that combine design and function. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider essential for any toxic-free baby product, and it can convert into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Some cribs sport more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden cots 4 tots-in-1. It's a stylish choice that will fit into large nurseries. However, it occupies more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. Additionally, it has only three levels of mattress height, which is less than half the alternatives and it's not as durable as our other picks.
Another option that has a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's mesh all-around and hidden hardware help to improve the flow of air, and Dr. Casares believes that this is an attribute that many new parents will find important. It can also be raised to a higher level to ease colic and reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary 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
It is crucial that the mattress on your baby's crib is at the correct height. This will ensure that your child can't climb out which could be hazardous or even fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your child from heat exhaustion or suffocation.
A quality crib should include slats that can be adjusted or railings that let you raise or lower the mattress 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. Finally, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and approved by a third-party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee the crib of your baby cots on sale is free of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib is one of the best-rated cribs available, and it's easy to put together and has a simple design that doesn't have any confusing parts or pieces. The crib's sides are shorter than other models. However, one parent test subject said that their baby slept well and that the crib was in good shape when she gave it to a relative for her second child.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern look. It's a little more expensive than other cribs, however its quality and features are worth it. It can be easily transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed, and it has wheels to make it easy to move. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a more like a womb for your baby. It's also 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 have to purchase separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that will grow with your child from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable parts
The safest cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hung above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to pull or create a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib sets with decorative items or toys, they should make sure that the items are securely secured and are not within Baby's reach.
In addition to the safety features of our best cribs for babies, we take into consideration how easy it is to assemble. Ideally, the crib should be easy enough to build it yourself and doesn't require specialized tools or long assembly time. Most parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together an modern crib, and the instructions are generally simple to follow.
It is essential to select a crib that lasts for many years. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib to an adult bed, and then a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the early years and later converted into an infant bed, a daybed or a larger bed. It's designed to last for a long time and is available in a variety of colors which makes it easy to match your nursery design theme.
Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile that makes it easier for parents with small hands to touch their child and comfort them. It is renowned for quality and comes 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 standards of government agencies such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is not included is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is an excellent option for those who are looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last.