How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is among the most essential items for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to select the ideal crib, due to so many styles and safety concerns.

Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a sleek crib that has a variety of mattress sizes and an elegant, modern design.

Safety

Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your child's crib. It is important to avoid putting any items in the crib of your child that could potentially cause injury or harm such as blankets, pillows, sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more information). Also, your baby should 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 swallowed by the mattress.

The best cot newborn cribs for babies are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other toxic chemicals. They also comply with strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure quality and safety. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They're also designed to last and are adaptable, so they can grow with your child.

It is essential to select a crib which meets the current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Used cribs can be weakened in the course of time due to age, humidity and frequent use. This could create serious risks for your baby.

The crib's slats should not be longer than 3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware must be secure. It's also a good idea to inspect the mattress support rims and slats for any loose or broken parts.

It's also wise to stay clear of cribs beds that were used by children or pets, as their security may be at risk. Do not purchase or purchase cribs with drop-side rails. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.

Style

Although all cribs must meet strict safety standards, there are a lot of design differences. Some of the differences are aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others could impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Certain features, such as drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should be avoided, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are desirable for many parents.

One thing to keep in mind is that a crib is meant exclusively for sleeping infants and is not a place to store toys or clothing. You can also put the crib on your registry to receive help from friends and family in the event that you require one.

cribs beds come in all shapes and sizes, but the ones we like best have a mix of style and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks stunning. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we consider essential for any toxic-free baby product and it's able to convert into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).

Some cribs feature an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that is a good fit for large nursery spaces, however it occupies more floor space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Additionally, it has only three mattress height levels which is less than half the competition and isn't as sturdy as our other options.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. The Babyletto Hudson's mesh all-around and hidden hardware improve airflow and Dr. Casares believes that this is a feature that a lot of new parents will consider important. It can be raised higher to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies who are 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary mattress. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than other top picks and requires an additional conversion kit for toddler cot beds for sale.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is crucial 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 protect your baby from heat exhaustion or suffocation.

A quality crib will have slats or railings that are adjustable to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A conversion kit comes in the majority of cribs, so that you can turn it into a daybed or toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. In the end, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third party organization to ensure 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 finishes or chemicals.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the most highly-rated cribs on the market, and it's easy to assemble, with a straightforward design that doesn't include any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than many other models however one tester said that her child slept well in it and was still in good shape when she gave it to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which is a unique oval-shaped design that gives it a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, however it's sturdy and comes with numerous options to make up the cost. It is able to be converted into a toddler bed or bassinet and has wheels that make it easy to move. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a like a womb for your baby. It's also an elegant touch to any nursery.

The crib doesn't come with mattress. You'll need to purchase one separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that will expand with your child from infant to toddler.

There are no dangling or chewable ingredients.

The safest cribs do not have chewable or hanging components. Babies love to grab objects, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them, it could snag on the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they need to ensure that the items are securely fastened and out of baby's reach.

In addition to the safety features of our best infant cribs, we also look at how easy it is to put together. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or a lot of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to put together the modern crib, and the directions are generally easy to follow.

It is essential to select a crib that lasts for many years. For long-lasting use, choose an adjustable crib that will be used from the time of infancy all the way up to an adult bed and then an adult-sized bed.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the early years and later transformed into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a large bed. It's designed to last and is available in a variety of colors, so you can match it to the theme of your nursery's decor.

Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib is low-profile which makes it easier for parents who are small 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 for finish quality and environmental protection, and it's constructed 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 missing is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is an excellent option for those who are looking for a quality, affordable crib that will last for a long time.