How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is one of the most essential items for your baby's nursery. However, choosing a suitable crib can be overwhelming particularly with the number of various styles and security concerns.

Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, with no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a stylish crib with a range of mattress heights and a sleek, modern design.

Safety

Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your child's crib. It is important to not place any items in the crib of your baby which could cause injury or harm such as blankets, pillows and sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your Baby Cot Bed's crib. They could fall between your baby's crib bars or be stuck in them. They may also be taken up by the mattress.

The most suitable cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also adhere to strict federal laws, state and local requirements for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for safety and quality (think GREENGAURD gold or ASTM, JMPA, or CPSIA certifications!). And they are designed to last and are convertible so they can grow with your child.

If you're buying a new crib sets or used, it's crucial to choose a crib that meets today's strict safety standards. Used cribs may lose their structural integrity due to aging, humidity and frequent use, posing grave dangers to your child.

The slats on your crib should not be longer than 3/8 inch (6 centimeters), and the hardware should be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any damaged or loose components.

It's also recommended to stay clear of cribs that have been used by children or pets, as their safety might be at risk. Also, don't purchase or accept a secondhand crib that has the drop side rail which was banned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2012 for reasons of safety.

Style

There are a variety of different designs of cribs, despite the fact that all must meet safety standards. Some are just aesthetic, such as if the slats are of the same length or spaced closer apart and others have an impact on the ease of the crib to use and maintain. Some features like drop sides and finials aren't safe and should be avoided. Other features, such as adjustable mattress height and wheels, are desirable by a lot of parents.

A crib isn't designed to be used for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place where babies can sleep. You can also include a crib in your registry to seek assistance from family and friends when you need one.

Cribs come in all sizes and shapes However, the ones we love best cots have a mix of style and functionality. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and stylish. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is essential for any baby product that is non-toxic and can be converted into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit available separately).

Some cribs feature an older-style look, such as 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 might find distracting. Moreover, it only has three mattress height levels which is less than half of the alternatives, and it's not as durable as our other options.

Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh improve airflow and allow you 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 alleviate reflux and colic, making it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It's GREENGUARD GOLD certified and comes with an additional mattress. It's worth noting, however, that it's more expensive than our other top selections and requires a toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

If your baby sleeps in their crib, it is important that the mattress is the right height. This will stop your child from climbing out of the crib, which could be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher can protect your child from overheating or suffocation.

A good crib should have adjustable rails or slats that permit you to raise or lower it as your baby grows. Most good cribs will also include a conversion kit that allows you can convert the crib into a toddler bed or daybed after your baby outgrows it. It is an excellent idea for you to choose a crib that is tested and certified by a third-party organization. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications ensure that the crib of your baby is free of chemicals or finishes.

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

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great option. It has an oval shape which gives it a contemporary look. It's more expensive than the majority of cribs, but it's sturdy and comes with numerous features to make up for the cost. It can easily be converted into a toddler bed or bassinet and has wheels to make it easy to move around. It has a canopy which can be used to create a space more akin to a womb your baby. This adds a stylish touch in any nursery.

This crib does not come with mattresses. You'll need to purchase one separately. It's a safe and comfortable crib that will be adapted to your child's needs from a newborn to a toddler.

No dangling or chewable components.

The most secure cribs have no dangling or chewable components. Babies like to grab things, and if something is hanging over or above their crib it could pull off the rails or become an entanglement hazard. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with ornaments or toys, they should ensure that the items are securely attached and are not within Baby's reach.

We also look at how it is easy to build our top cribs for infants. The crib should be easy enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or a lot of time. The majority of parents say it takes less than one hour to put together an modern crib, and the instructions are generally simple to follow.

A crib will be an important purchase for many new parents, which is why it's important to find one that will last for a long time to be. Pick a crib that can be transformed from a crib into an adult bed, and then to a full-size mattress.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top choice for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet for the early years and later transformed into an infant bed, a daybed, or a large bed. It is designed to last and is available in a variety of colors so that you can match it with the theme of your nursery's decor.

Stork Craft Equinox is another fantastic option. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib has a slim profile which makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and calm them. It also has a good reputation for quality and comes in white, cherry, espresso, and 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 exceeds the standards of government agencies like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing not included is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is a great option for those who are looking for a quality affordable crib that will last.