How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is an crucial piece for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the right crib, with numerous styles and safety concerns.

Look for a crib that meets the most stringent safety standards and has no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a sleek crib with a variety of mattress sizes and a sleek, modern design.

Safety

Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your child's crib. Avoid placing any items that could cause injury or harm in the nursery of your baby. This includes blankets, pillows and sheepskins. Also avoid bumper pads, stuffed toys and blankets. Teddy bears, dolls, and stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could easily fall into or get stuck between your baby and the crib bars, or be swallowed by the mattress.

The best infant cribs cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also comply with strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). They're also designed to be durable and convertible, so they can grow along with your child.

No matter if you're buying new or used, it's crucial to select cribs that meet today's strict safety standards. Used cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to age, humidity and frequent use, posing serious risks to your infant.

The slats on your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware 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 is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, as their safety may be at risk. Also, don't purchase or buy an older crib that has a drop side rail, which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for reasons of safety.

Style

There are a variety of variations in the design of cribs, despite the fact that all have to meet safety standards. Some are purely aesthetic, such as whether the slats are the same length or placed closer than others and others have a significant impact on how easy the crib is to maintain and use. Certain features, like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels, are coveted by a lot of parents.

A crib isn't designed to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place for babies to sleep. You can also include the crib on your registry to seek help from family and friends in the event you need help.

Cribs come in many different styles, but we prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks stunning. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is a must-have for any toxic-free baby product and can be converted into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).

Other cribs have more traditional designs like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a stately choice that can be incorporated into large nursery spaces, however it occupies more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some might find distracting. Furthermore, it only has three levels of mattress height, which is less than half of the other options and isn't as durable as our other options.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a modern design. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and allow you to observe baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This is suitable for babies between 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 note that this bed is more expensive than other top picks, and it requires a separate conversion kit for toddler beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is important that your baby's crib mattress is at the correct height. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which could be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help protect your baby from overheating or suffocating.

A good crib will have slats or railings that are adjustable to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit so you can turn the crib into the toddler bed or daybed after your baby outgrows it. It's also a good idea for you to choose the crib that is tested and certified by a third-party institution. 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 most highly-rated cribs available and it's easy to assemble and has a simple design that doesn't include any confusing parts or pieces. The sides of the crib are smaller than the other models. However, one parent tester reported that her baby slept well tots and cots that the crib was in good shape when she gave it to a friend for her second Baby beds.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a modern style. It's more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it's durable and comes with a number of options to make up the price. It is able to be transformed into an infant bed or a bassinet and comes with wheels to make it easy to move. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a like a womb for your baby and adds a stylish touch to any nursery.

This crib does not come with mattresses. You'll have to buy one separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can expand with your child from infant to toddler.

No dangling or chewable components.

The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. If something is hung over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are very grabby. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or other objects, they should make sure they secure the items and aren't within reach of Baby.

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

A crib will be an important purchase for many new parents, which is why it is essential to choose one that will last for many years to come. For long-lasting use, choose a convertible crib that will be used from the time of infancy all the way up to a toddler bed and finally a larger bed.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet in the early months and then transformed into an infant bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It's designed to last for a long time and comes in a variety of colors that make it easy to match with your nursery's theme.

Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and soothe their child. It also has a good reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white, espresso, and natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also exceeds the standards of government agencies like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is a toddler rail which you can buy separately. This is a great option for those looking for a quality affordable crib that will last.