17 Reasons Not To Avoid Best Infant Cribs
How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
The crib is an extremely essential piece of furniture for the nursery of your baby. But picking out a good crib can be a daunting task, especially with so many different designs and safety concerns.
Look for a crib that has the most stringent safety standards, including no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a crib that has a broad choice of mattress heights and a sleek design that is in line with your style.
Safety
When assembling and positioning your baby's crib, be sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could cause injury or harm such as blankets, pillows and sheepskins, toys for stuffed animals and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears dolls or stuffed animals larger than 15 inches. These items could easily fall into or get caught between your baby and the crib sets bars or they could be swallowed by the mattress.
The best cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also adhere to strict federal and state standards for structural safety. Furthermore, they're tested by a third-party for quality and safety (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certs!). And they are designed to last and are convertible so they can grow with your child.
It's crucial to choose cribs that meet current safety standards, regardless of whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs can lose structural integrity over time due to the effects of humidity, age and frequent use. This can pose serious risks to your baby.
The slats of your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent children from being wedged between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secure. Examine the slats, mattress support rims and hardware for any broken or loose components.
It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children or pets, as their security may be compromised. Do not purchase or purchase a crib with a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.
Style
Although all cribs must meet strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some are just aesthetic, such as if the slats are identical in length or are spaced closer than others or not, while others have an impact on the ease of the crib to use and maintain. Certain features, like finials and drop sides are not safe and should be avoided. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels, are sought-after by a lot of parents.
One important thing to remember is that the crib should be used solely for sleep for infants and is not an area to store toys or clothes. It's also a good idea to put the crib on your registry so that friends and family can lend a hand to help you get one when the time arrives.
Cribs are available in a variety of different styles We prefer those that combine style with functionality. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks gorgeous. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is an essential feature for any toxic-free Baby beds product and can be converted into a toddler bed or daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Some cribs feature more traditional designs, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that can be incorporated into big nursery spaces, but it takes up more floor space than the smaller and minimalist models, and also has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. It has only three mattress levels which is less than the number offered by competitors. It's also not as sturdy as our other picks.
Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you to see baby which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher height to alleviate reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's important to note that this bed is more expensive than other top picks, and it requires a separate conversion kit for toddler beds.
Adjustable Mattress Height
It is crucial that your baby's crib mattress is of the correct height. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your baby cots online from suffocation or overheating.
A quality crib should have slats or railings that are adjustable that let you raise or lower the mattress as your child grows. Most good cribs will also come with a conversion kit, so you can turn the crib into the toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. Finally, it's a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organisation for safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to make sure there are minimal chemicals or finishes present in the baby's sleeping space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib has an easy design and has no complicated parts. It is among the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are shorter than many other models, but one parent tester said that her child did well sleeping in it and remained in good condition when she gave it to a friend following the birth of her second child was born.
Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern look. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs, but its durability and features make up for it. For instance, it can be transformed 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 an atmosphere more akin to a womb your baby. It adds a fashionable design to any nursery.
The only drawback to this crib is it doesn't have a mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that can grow with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.
No Chewable or Dangling Parts
The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. If something is hung over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to pull or cause strangulation. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they must ensure that the items are securely attached and out of baby's reach.
In addition to the security features of our top cribs for infants, we also consider how simple it is to put together. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without requiring special tools or spending a long amount of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to put together an modern crib, and the directions are generally simple to follow.
It's important that you choose a crib that lasts for many years. Select a crib that is able to be converted from a crib into an adult bed, and then 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 the bassinet in the early months, then convert to a toddler bed, daybed, and full-size cheap cot bed. It is designed to last and is available in a variety of colors so that you can match it with your nursery's design theme.
Stork Craft Equinox is another excellent option. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib has a slim profile that allows parents who are small to reach their child and soothe them. It also has a great reputation for quality and comes in cherry, white and espresso colors as well as natural pine colors.
This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made of sustainable New Zealand pine and is free from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also far exceeds safety standards of the government, including ASTM, CPSC, and JPMA. The only thing that is not included is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great choice for those who are seeking a top-quality affordable cots crib that will last.