Ten Things You've Learned In Kindergarden To Help You Get Started With Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential items for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good one can feel overwhelming particularly with the number of different styles and security concerns.
Choose a crib that meets the highest safety standards and includes no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a crib with a broad selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that complements 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 baby which could cause injury or harm, including pillows, blankets as well as sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items could easily fall into or become stuck between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be swallowed 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 comply with strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). And they are designed to last and are adaptable, so they can grow with your child.
Whether you're buying new or used, it's essential to select a crib that meets today's rigorous safety standards. Secondhand cribs could lose structural integrity over time due to the effects of humidity, age and use. This can cause serious dangers to your baby.
The slats of your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent infants from getting wedged between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secure. It's also a good idea to inspect the mattress support rims and slats for 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 might have been compromised. Don't buy or accept a second-hand crib with an incline side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for reasons of safety.
Style
There are many design differences between cribs, despite the fact that they all have to meet safety standards. Some are just aesthetic, such as whether the slats are of identical in length or are spaced closer apart and others have a significant impact on how easy the crib is to use and maintain. Some features like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are coveted by many parents.
A crib isn't designed to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also include a crib on your registry to get assistance from family and friends in the event you need help.
Cribs are available in many different styles We prefer those that combine design and function. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks stunning. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified which we believe is essential for any toxic-free product. It can be converted into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.
Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a chic option that can fit in large nurseries. However, it takes more space than smaller minimalist options. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels, which is less than half the alternatives, and it's not as sturdy as our other choices.
The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern look. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This makes it suitable for babies aged 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a matching mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top options, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
When your baby is sleeping in their crib, it is important that the mattress is at the right level. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which can be fatal or dangerous. A higher mattress also helps protect your baby from overheating or becoming suffocated.
A good crib will have slats or railings that are adjustable that let you raise or lower the mattress as your infant grows. A conversion kit comes in the majority of cribs, so that you can convert it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. It is an excellent idea for you to choose a crib that has been certified and tested by a third-party organization. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee your baby's crib is free of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs available and it's easy to assemble and has a simple layout that doesn't contain any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than most cribs however, one user said that her child did well sleeping in it and was still in good shape when she gave it to a friend after her second child.
Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a modern look. It's a bit more costly than other cribs, however it's durable and comes with a number of features that make up the cost. It can, for instance, be transformed into a bassinet, or a toddler bed, and it has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It comes with a canopy that can be used to create an environment more like a womb for your baby. This is a chic design to any nursery.
This crib does not come with a mattress. You'll have to buy one separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from newborn to toddler.
No dangling or chewable components.
The safest cribs are those that are free of chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grab things, and if a piece of furniture is hanging over or above their crib it could tug on the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they need to ensure that the items are securely attached and are not within Baby's reach.
In addition to the security features of our best cribs for infants, we also consider how simple it is to set up. The crib should be simple enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a long amount of time. Many parents report that it takes less than an hour to put together a modern crib, and the directions are usually easy to follow.
A crib is an important purchase for many new parents, so it's crucial to find one that will last for many years to come. Choose a crib that can be converted from a crib into an infant's bed, and then a full-size mattress.
Our top choice for a 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can be used as a bassinet for those early months, and then be converted to a toddler bed daybed, and full-size bed. It's designed for the long haul and comes in a variety of colors which makes it easy to match with your nursery's theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a low profile that makes it easier for parents with small hands to reach their child and calm them. It is renowned for quality, and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety, and it's made 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. You can buy it separately. best infant cribs is a good option for those looking for an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last.