How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

The crib is a very crucial piece for your baby cot online's nursery. It isn't easy to select the best crib, given so many styles and safety concerns.

Find a crib that meets 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

When assembling and setting up your baby's crib, make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to stay clear of putting anything in your baby's crib that could potentially cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets as well as sheepskins, stuffed toys 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 larger than 15 inches. They could get caught between the crib bars or become stuck within them. They may also be swallowed by the mattress.

The best rated cribs infant cribs are made from safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also meet strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certs!). They're also designed to be durable and adaptable, so they can expand with your child.

It's important that you choose cribs that meet current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a brand-new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may lose structural integrity over time due to humidity, age and heavy use. This could create serious risks for your baby.

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

It's also recommended cribs to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children or pets, since their safety may be compromised. Don't buy or purchase an older crib that has a drop side rail, which was deemed unsafe by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for security reasons.

Style

While all cribs have to comply with strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some of the differences are cosmetic, such as whether the slats are all the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided and others, like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are highly sought-after by many parents.

A crib is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be a place for babies to sleep. It's also recommended to put the crib on your list to ensure that family and friends can pitch in to assist you in getting one when the time arrives.

Cribs are available in a variety of different styles, but we prefer ones that blend fashion and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimalist and stylish. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified which we believe is a must for any product that is non-toxic. It can be converted into a daybed and toddler by converting it with a separate kit.

Some cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a classy crib that is a good fit for large nursery spaces, however it takes up more floor space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. Moreover, it only has three levels of mattress height, which is less than half the competition and isn't as sturdy as our other picks.

The Babyletto Hudson is another option with a more modern aesthetic. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and make it easier 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 who are 6 months and the birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a matching mattress. It's worth noting, though, that it's more expensive than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is crucial that the mattress on your baby's crib is of the correct height. This will stop your child from escaping the crib, which could be dangerous or fatal. A higher mattress also helps to keep your child safe from overheating or becoming suffocated.

A good crib will have adjustable slats or railings that let you raise or lower the mattress as your baby grows. A conversion kit is included with the majority of cribs so that you can convert it into a daybed or toddler bed once your child outgrows the crib. It is recommended for you to choose the crib that has been certified and tested by a third-party institution. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to ensure there are minimal chemicals or finishes in the crib where your baby sleeps.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the most highly-rated cribs available, and it's simple to put together and features a simple layout that doesn't contain any jarring pieces or parts. The crib's sides are shorter than the other models. However, one test subject said that their child was sleeping well and the crib was still in good shape when she gave it to a relative for her second baby.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another excellent option. It features an oval shape which gives it a modern look. It's a little more expensive than other cribs, however 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 comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more child-like space for your baby. It's also an elegant look to any nursery.

This crib is not equipped with mattress. You'll have to purchase a mattress separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that can adapt to your child's needs as they transition from infant to toddler.

No dangling or chewable components.

The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grasp objects, and if something is hanging from their crib or above them, it could pull off the rails or become a strangulation hazard. If parents decide to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they should be sure that the items are securely secured and out of baby's reach.

We also consider how it is easy to put together our top cribs for infants. The crib should be easy enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or spending a large amount of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than an hour to put together the modern crib, and the directions are generally easy to follow.

A crib will be an important purchase for many new parents, which is why it is essential to choose one that will last for years to be. For longevity, opt for an adjustable crib that will start at the beginning of your child's life all the way cots to tots a toddler bed and finally a full-size bed.

Our favorite 4-in-1 convertible crib is the Ikea Nestig Cloud Crib, which can replace an infant bassinet during the first months, and then be converted to a toddler bed daybed, or a full-size bed. It's made for long-term use and comes in a variety of colors that make it easy to match your nursery design theme.

Another excellent choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for petite parents to reach their child and soothe them. It is well-known for quality, and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified, which means it is made from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free from toxins such as lead and phthalates. It also surpasses all government safety standards, including 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 seeking a top-quality crib that is affordable and built to last for a long time.