The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Best Infant Cribs

How to Choose the best infant cribs (information from Maanation)

The crib is an extremely essential piece of furniture for the nursery of your baby. However, picking a suitable crib can be a daunting task, especially with so many different styles and safety concerns.

Search for a crib with the most stringent safety standards, including no chewable or dangling components. We also recommend a sleek crib that has a variety of mattress sizes and an elegant, modern design.

Safety

When assembling and arranging your baby's crib make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is crucial to not place any items in the crib of your baby that could cause injury or harm including blankets, pillows, sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Teddy bears, dolls, and stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches are not allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items can easily fall into or be caught between your baby and the crib bars, or they could be engulfed by the mattress.

The best cribs for infants are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also comply with strict federal laws, state and local standards for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certifications!) They're also designed to be tough and convertible, meaning they can grow along with your child.

It is essential to select a crib that meets current safety standards, regardless of whether you're buying a brand new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may have their structural integrity weakened due to humidity, age and frequent use, posing grave dangers to your child.

The slats of your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inch (6 centimeters) and the hardware should be secured. It's also a good idea to inspect the slats and the rims of the mattress support for broken or loose components.

It is also advisable to avoid using cribs that have been used by other children and/or pets, since their safety might be compromised. Don't buy or accept a crib with a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.

Style

Although all cribs must comply with strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some are purely aesthetic, like whether the slats are the same length or spaced closer together and others have an impact on how easy the crib is to operate 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 height and casters/wheels--are highly sought-after by many parents.

A crib isn't designed to be used for toys or clothes. It's intended to be an area where babies can sleep. It's also an excellent idea to include a crib on your registry so that friends and family can lend a hand to help you get one when the time comes.

Cribs come in all sizes and shapes, but the ones we prefer combine style and functionality. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It is also GREENGUARD gold-certified and we believe that is a must for any product that is non-toxic. It can be converted into a toddler and daybed with a separate conversion kit.

Other cribs are more traditional, like the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a stately choice that fits well into large nursery spaces, however it occupies more floor space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some find distracting. It has only three levels of mattress which is a fraction of 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 enhance airflow and allow you to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important aspect for new parents. It can be raised to ease colic and reflux. This is suitable for babies between 6 months and birth. It's also GREENGUARD certified GOLD and comes with a complimentary matching mattress. It's worth noting, though it's more costly than our other top picks and requires a separate toddler bed conversion kit.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is crucial that the mattress on your baby's crib is at the correct height. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A higher mattress can also protect your child from overheating or suffocation.

A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise or lower it as your Baby beds grows. A conversion kit is provided with most good cribs so that you can convert it into an adult daybed or a toddler bed when your child is no longer in the crib. Finally, it's best to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third party organisation to ensure safety. The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seal and GREENGUARD Gold Certification are two examples. These certifications guarantee the crib of your baby is free of any chemicals or finishes.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the most highly-rated cribs available 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 shorter than other models. However, one test subject said that their child was sleeping well and the crib was still in good condition when she gave it to a relative for her second child.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which features a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary appearance. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its durability and features are worth it. It can be easily transformed into an infant bed or a bassinet and comes with wheels that make it easy to move around. It comes with a canopy that can be used to create an environment more akin to a womb your baby. This adds a stylish design to any nursery.

This crib does not come with mattresses. You'll have to purchase one separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they go from newborn to toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Components

The most secure cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hung over or below the crib, it could cause the rails to be pulled or cause strangulation. Babies are extremely grabbing. If a parent decorates their crib with toys or decorative items, they must ensure that the items are secured tightly and aren't in the reach of Baby.

In addition to the security features of our top rated cots cribs for babies, we look at how easy it is to put together. The crib should be easy enough to assemble yourself, without requiring special tools or a long amount of time. Many parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together an modern crib, and the directions are usually easy 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 to a toddler's bed, and later a full-size mattress.

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

Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to reach their child and soothe them. It is renowned for quality and comes in white, cherry and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety. It's made from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds the standards of government agencies such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing missing is the toddler rail. You can buy it separately. This is an excellent option for those looking for a quality crib that is affordable and built to last for a long time.