How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is among the most essential items for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good one can feel overwhelming, especially with so many different styles and safety concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a chic crib that has a variety of mattress heights and modern, sleek 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 essential to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. These items can easily slide between the crib bars or be stuck in them. They may also be taken up by the mattress.
The best 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 third-party tested to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They're also designed to be tough and convertible, so they can grow along with your child.
If you're buying a new crib or used, it's crucial to choose cribs that meet the current stringent safety standards. Used cribs can become less sturdy over time due to humidity, age and use. This could pose serious risks to your baby.
The slats on your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent babies from getting trapped between them and the hardware on the crib should be secured. It's also a good idea to examine the slats and mattress support rims for broken or loose components.
It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their security may have been compromised. Finally, don't purchase or purchase a second-hand crib with the drop side rail which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 due to security reasons.
Style
While all cribs have to comply with strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some are just aesthetic, such as the slats have the same length, or are spaced closer apart, while others could make it difficult to clean and use the crib. Certain features, such as drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should be avoided and others, like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are popular with parents.
A crib is not meant to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place where babies can sleep. It's also recommended to put the crib on your registry so that your family and friends can pitch in to assist you in getting one when the time comes.
Cribs are available in many different styles We prefer those that combine fashion and functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalistic crib that looks gorgeous. It's also GREENGUARD gold certified and we believe that is essential for any product that is free of toxics. It can be turned to a daybed or toddler by converting it with a separate kit.
Some cribs feature an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a stately choice that fits well into big nursery spaces, but it occupies more floor space than the 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 of the competition, and it's not as durable as our other picks.
Another option with a modern aesthetic is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and allow you to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be raised to a higher level to alleviate reflux and colic and colic, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD-certified and comes with an extra mattress that can be used as a substitute. 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 sleeps in their crib, it's important that the mattress is the right height. This ensures that your child isn't able to climb out, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also safeguard your child from suffocation or overheating.
A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your baby grows. A conversion kit comes with most good cribs to allow you to convert it into a daybed or toddler bed when your child is no longer in the crib. Finally, it's a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and inspected by a third-party organization for safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee that your baby's crib is not contaminated of any chemicals or finishes.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has simple design and doesn't have complicated parts. It is one of the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than other cribs, but one parent tester reported that her baby slept well in it, and was in good condition when she passed it on to a friend after her second child was born.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It has an oval shape which gives it a modern look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs but its quality and features make up for it. For example, it can be transformed into a bassinet or toddler bed and is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It also has a canopy that can be used to create a space more like a womb for your baby. It adds a fashionable touch in any nursery.
The only drawback to this crib is that it doesn't include a mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they grow from infant to toddler.
No Chewable or Dangling Parts
The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hung over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to be pulled or create a strangulation risk. Babies can be very grabbing. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they must be sure that the items are securely fastened and are not within Baby's reach.
We also examine how it is easy to put together our top infant cribs. The crib should be simple enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a large amount of time. Most parents report that it takes less than one hour to assemble a modern crib, and the instructions are generally 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 years to be. Choose a crib that can be converted from a crib to an adult bed, and then to a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet for the beginning, and later converted into an infant bed, a daybed or a large bed. It's designed to last and is available in many colors so you can match it with your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib is low-profile which makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and calm them. It also has a stellar reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors as well as natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety, and it's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins like lead and phthalates (BPA). It also far exceeds safety standards set by the government, such as ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that's missing is a toddler rail which you can buy separately. This is a great option for those who want an affordable, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.