The 10 Scariest Things About Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential items for your baby's nursery. However, picking a suitable one can feel overwhelming especially when you consider the many various styles and security concerns.
Find a crib that adheres to the most stringent safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a crib with a wide range of mattress height settings and a stylish design that complements your style.
Safety
Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your child's crib. Avoid placing any objects that could cause injury or harm in your baby's nursery. This includes pillows, blankets and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. These items could easily fall into or be stuck between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cots uk cribs for babies are made of materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also adhere to strict federal and state standards for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They're designed to be durable and convertible so they can adapt to your child's needs.
It's important that you choose a crib that meets current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to humidity, age and prolonged use, which can pose serious dangers to your baby.
The slats of your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware must be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It's also wise to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their safety could be compromised. Don't buy or accept the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.
Style
Although all cribs must comply with strict safety standards, you'll find a lot of design differences. Some are just aesthetic, such as if the slats are the same length or spaced closer than others or not, while others have a real impact on how easy the crib is to use and maintain. Certain features, like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress height and wheels, are desirable by many parents.
A crib is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be an area where babies can sleep. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your list so that friends and family can help you get one when the time arrives.
Cribs are available in many different styles We prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider an essential feature for any product that is free of toxics, and it can convert into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Some cribs feature a more traditional look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a chic option that can fit in large nurseries. However, it takes up more floor space when compared to smaller minimalist options. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels, which is less than half of the competition and isn't as sturdy as our other options.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh enhance airflow and make it easier to see your baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher level to help reduce colic and reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a mattress. It's worth noting, though it's more costly than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's vital that the mattress is at the correct level. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help keep your child from overheating or suffocating.
A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. The majority of cribs come with a conversion kit, so you can convert the crib into the toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. Finally, it's best cots to choose a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third party organisation for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that your baby's crib is not contaminated of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the top-rated cribs available and it's easy to put together and features a simple design that doesn't include any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than most cribs, but one parent tester said that her child slept well in it, and was in good condition when she gave it to a friend after her second child was born.
Another great crib option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its quality and features are worth it. For instance, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed. It also has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a child-like space for your baby. It's also an elegant touch to any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is that it doesn't include mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that will adapt to your child's needs as they grow from infant to toddler.
No dangling or chewable components.
The safest cribs have no chewable or hanging components. Babies love to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging from or above their crib it could snag against the rails or create a strangulation hazard. If parents decorate their crib with toys or other items, they must make sure they secure the items and aren't in the reach of Baby.
We also consider how easy it is to build our top infant cribs. Ideally, the crib should be simple enough to make it yourself and doesn't require special tools or extensive assembly time. The majority of parents say that the assembly of a modern crib takes less than an hour and the instructions included are usually clear and easy to follow.
A crib will be 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. Choose a crib that can be transformed from a crib into an adult bed, and then a full-size mattress.
Our top pick for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can replace the bassinet in the early months, and then be converted into a toddler bed, daybed, or a full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a variety of colors that make it easy to match your nursery's theme.
Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile, so small parents can reach their child and calm them. It is well-known for quality, and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also exceeds government standards 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 looking for a high-quality affordable crib that will last.
