How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is a very crucial piece for your baby's nursery. It isn't easy to pick the right crib, with numerous styles and safety concerns.
Choose a crib that adheres to the highest safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a chic crib that has a variety of mattress heights and an elegant, modern design.
Safety
Follow the safe sleeping guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your crib for your child. It is crucial to avoid putting any items in the crib of your child that could potentially cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows and sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches shouldn't 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 they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made from safe materials that are free of VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal and state regulations for structural safety. Additionally, they're third-party tested for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certificates!). They are also designed to last and convertible, so they'll continue to grow with your child.
It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Secondhand cribs can be damaged in their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and frequent use, posing grave dangers to your child.
The crib's slats should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secure. Check the slats and mattress support rims and hardware for any damaged or loose components.
It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by other children or pets, as their security could be at risk. Don't buy or buy an older crib that has the drop side rail which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for safety reasons.
Style
There are a lot of design differences between cribs, despite the fact that they all must meet safety standards. Some of the differences are cosmetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced further apart, while others can make it difficult to clean and use the crib. Certain features, like finials and drop sides aren't safe and should not be used. Other features, like the adjustable mattress heights and wheels, are desirable by many parents.
One important thing to remember is that the crib should be used only for infant sleep and is not a place to store clothes or toys. You can also put a crib in your registry to receive help from friends and family when you need one.
Cribs come in all shapes and sizes, but the ones we prefer have a mix of style and functionality. For example, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD gold-certified and we believe that is a must for any toxic-free product. It can be turned into a daybed and 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 grand crib that can be incorporated into large nursery spaces, however it takes up more floor space than smaller and minimalist models, and also has exposed hardware that some might find distracting. It has only three levels of mattress, which is half the number of competitors. It's not as durable as our other picks.
Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its hidden hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and allow you to observe baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can be raised to relieve reflux and colic. This is suitable for babies aged 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD GOLD certified and includes a free matching mattress. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than other top choices, and it requires an additional conversion kit to accommodate toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is important that the crib mattress of your baby is the right height. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which could be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher also helps protect your baby from overheating or suffocating.
A quality crib should include adjustable rails or slats that allow you to raise or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit is provided with the majority of cribs so that you can turn it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. In the end, it's recommended to select a crib that has been tested and certified by a third-party organization to ensure safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to ensure that there aren't any chemical or other finishes in the baby's sleeping space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib features an easy design and has no complicated parts. It is among the top cribs. The sides of the crib are smaller than other cribs, but one parent tester stated that her baby was comfortable in it and remained in good condition when she gave it to a friend following the birth of her second child.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern appearance. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs but its durability and features are worth it. For instance, it can be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed. It also 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 that resembles a womb for your baby. It adds a fashionable touch in any nursery.
The only issue with this crib is that it doesn't come with mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that can expand with your child as they grow from infant to toddler.
No Chewable or Dangling Parts
The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. Babies love to grasp things, and if something is hanging from or above their crib it could pull against the rails or create an entanglement hazard. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they must make sure that the items are securely fastened and out of baby's reach.
We also examine how it is easy to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be simple enough to assemble yourself, without the need for special tools or a lot of time. Many parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than a half hour, and the instructions included are usually clear and easy to follow.
It is crucial to choose a crib that will last many years. Choose a crib that can be converted from a crib into a toddler's bed, and later a full-size mattress.
The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the early years and later converted into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It is designed to last and is available in a variety of colors so that you can match it with your nursery's theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another great alternative. This gorgeous, minimalist-style crib is low-profile so that parents with small feet can touch their child to comfort them. It also has a great reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white, espresso, and 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 harmful substances such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also far exceeds government safety standards, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is missing is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a good option for those looking for an inexpensive, high-quality crib that will last for a long time.