How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is a very important piece for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to pick the right crib, with so many designs and safety concerns.

Find cribs that meet the most stringent safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also recommend a sleek crib that has a variety of mattress sizes and a sleek, modern design.

Safety

When assembling and setting up your baby's crib make sure to adhere to the safe sleeping guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to avoid putting any items in your baby's crib which could cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows and sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls or stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches. These items could easily fall into or become trapped between your baby and the crib bars or they could be engulfed by the mattress.

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

If you're buying a new crib or used, it's important to choose cribs that meet the current stringent safety standards. Secondhand cribs may become less sturdy over time due to age, humidity and heavy use. This can pose serious risks to your baby.

The slats of your crib should not be longer than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secure. Check the slats, mattress support rims, and hardware for any loose or damaged components.

It is also advisable to stay clear of cribs that were used by other children and/or pets, since their safety might be compromised. Do not purchase or purchase a crib with a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.

Style

While all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some are just cosmetic, like whether the slats all have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others could affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Certain features, like finials and drop sides are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, like the adjustable mattress height and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.

A crib isn't intended to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also put a crib on your registry to seek assistance from family and friends in the event that you require one.

Cribs come in a variety of shapes and sizes However, the ones we like best cots for newborns are those that combine style and function. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and stylish. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified, which we think is a must for any product that is non-toxic. It can be transformed to a daybed or toddler with a separate conversion kit.

Some cribs feature a more traditional look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that fits well into large nurseries, but it occupies more space than smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some may find distracting. It only has three levels of mattress, which is half the competition's number. It's not as durable as our other picks.

Another option that has a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier to observe 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 which makes it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with a free matching mattress. It's worth noting, however it's more costly than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it's important that the mattress is at the correct height. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which can be risky or even fatal. A mattress that is higher also helps protect your baby from overheating or suffocating.

A quality crib should include slats that can be adjusted or railings to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your infant grows. A conversion kit is included with the majority of cribs to allow you to convert it into a daybed or toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. It is recommended for you to choose a crib that has been certified and tested by a third-party organisation. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal cots and tots GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to ensure that there are no harmful chemicals or finishes in the baby's sleeping space.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the top-rated cribs available, and it's simple to put together and features a simple layout that doesn't contain any jarring pieces or parts. The crib's sides are shorter than the other models. However, one parent test subject said that their child was sleeping well and the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a friend for her second child.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It has an oval shape which creates a modern appearance. It's more expensive than other cribs, however it is durable and has a number of features that make up the cost. It can be easily converted into a toddler bed or bassinet, and it has wheels that make it easy to move. It also has a canopy that can be utilized to create a child-like space for your baby and adds an elegant touch to any nursery.

This crib is not equipped with mattresses. You'll need to buy one separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will adapt to your child's needs as they go from newborn to toddler.

No dangling or chewable components.

The safest cribs do not have chewable or hanging components. Babies love to grasp things, and if something is hanging over or above their crib it could pull off the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they must ensure that the items are securely fastened and are out of Baby Cot's reach.

We also consider how easy it is to put together our top infant cribs. The ideal crib will be simple enough that you can do it yourself, and doesn't require any special tools or extensive assembly time. Most parents report that it takes less than an hour to assemble an modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.

It is crucial to choose a crib that lasts for many years. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib into an infant's bed, and later a full-size mattress.

Our top pick for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib which can be used as a bassinet for those early months, then convert to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size bed. It's made for long-term use and comes in a variety of colors which makes it easy to match your nursery's theme.

Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a low profile which makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and soothe their child. It is well-known for its quality, and is available in white, cherry and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also far exceeds safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing missing is a toddler rail which you can buy separately. This is a great choice for those seeking a top-quality affordable crib that will last.