How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs
A crib is one of the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. It can be difficult to choose the ideal crib, due to so many designs and safety concerns.
Find a crib that meets the highest safety standards and has no dangling or chewable components. We also suggest a crib that has a broad choice of mattress heights and a modern design that complements your style.
Safety
When assembling and positioning your baby's crib, be sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to avoid putting any items in the crib of your baby that could potentially cause harm or injury such as blankets, pillows, sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleeping for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and stuffed animals bigger than 15 inches shouldn't be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items could easily slide between the crib bars or become stuck within them. They may also get taken in by the mattress.
The best cribs for babies are made of materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also comply with strict federal, state and local requirements for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They are also designed to last and convertible, meaning they can grow along with your child.
It's important that you choose a crib which meets the current safety standards, whether you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs can become less sturdy 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 3/8 inches (6 centimeters), and the hardware must be secured. It's an excellent idea to check the slats and the rims of the mattress support for any broken or loose components.
It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets, since their safety could have been compromised. Finally, don't purchase or buy an older crib that has an incline side rail, which was banned by the U.S. nursery cots in 2012 due to security reasons.
Style
There are a lot of variations in the design of cribs, despite the fact that they all must meet safety standards. Some are simply aesthetic, such as if the slats are of the same length or placed closer apart or not, while others have a real impact on how easy the crib is to use and maintain. Some features, like drop sides and finials, aren't safe and should not be used as well. Other features, such as adjustable mattress heights and wheels/casters are desirable for many parents.
A crib isn't intended to be used as a place for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also put a crib in your registry to receive help from friends and family in the event that you require one.
Cribs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes however, the ones we like best combine style and functionality. For example the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is minimal and looks sharp. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which is a must-have for any toxic-free baby product, and it can convert into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).
Some cribs sport more traditional designs like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that fits well into large nurseries, but it occupies more floor space than the smaller, minimalist alternatives and comes with exposed hardware that some 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 choices.
Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and make it easier to observe baby which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for many new parents. It can also be elevated to a higher height to ease colic and reflux, making it suitable for babies ranging from birth to 6 months. It is also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's worth noting, though it's more costly than our other top choices and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.
Adjustable Mattress Height
If your baby sleeps in their crib, it's important that the mattress is at the right height. This ensures that your child doesn't fall out and fall, which could be dangerous or even fatal. A mattress that is higher will also protect your child from overheating or suffocation.
A quality crib should include slats that can be adjusted or railings that allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your infant grows. A conversion kit is provided with the majority of cribs so that you can turn it into a toddler bed or daybed after your child has outgrown the crib. In the end, it's a good idea to choose a crib that has been tested and approved by a third party organization for safety. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to ensure that there are minimal chemicals or finishes present in your baby's sleep space.
The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the best-rated cribs on the market, and it's easy to put together and features a simple design that doesn't include any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are smaller than many other models however, one user stated that her baby slept well in it and remained in good shape when she gave it to a friend following the birth of her second child was born.
Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a modern look. It's more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it is durable and has a number of features to make up for the cost. It can be easily converted into a toddler bed or bassinet and has wheels to make it simple to move around. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a more womb-like environment for your baby. It's also a stylish touch to any nursery.
This crib does not come with a mattress. You'll need to purchase a mattress separately. But it's a safe and comfortable crib that will grow with your child from infant to toddler.
There are no dangling or chewable ingredients.
The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. If something is hanging above or below their crib, it could cause the rails to pull or cause strangulation. Babies can be very grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they should be sure that the items are securely secured and are not within Baby's reach.
In addition to the safety features of our best cribs for infants, we also look at how easy it is to put together. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or spending a long amount of time. Many parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour, and the included instructions are usually clear and easy to follow.
It is essential to select the right crib that will last for many years. For long-lasting use, choose an adjustable crib that will work from infancy all the way up to 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 a bassinet for those early months, then convert to a toddler bed daybed, and full-size bed. It's designed to last for a long time and is available in a variety of colors which makes it easy to match your nursery design theme.
Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This stunning, minimalist-style crib has a low profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and calm 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 that it is constructed from sustainable New Zealand pine and is free of harmful substances like lead and phthalates. It also surpasses standards set by the government like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that is lacking is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is an excellent option for those who are seeking a top-quality, affordable crib that will last for a long time.