How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is one of the most important pieces for your baby's nursery. But picking out a good crib can be overwhelming, especially with so many different styles and security concerns.

Search for a crib with the highest safety standards, and no chewable or dangling components. We also suggest a crib with a broad selection of mattress heights and a modern design that matches your style.

Safety

Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when placing and assembling your baby's crib. It is important to not place any items in the crib of your child that could potentially cause harm or injury, including pillows, blankets and sheepskins, stuffed toys, and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more information). Your baby should also not sleep with any teddy bears, dolls, or stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches. These items could easily get caught between the crib bars or be trapped in them. They may also get taken up by the mattress.

The best cribs for infants are made of materials that are free of VOCs, toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. They also adhere to strict federal laws, local and state regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by a third party for quality and safety (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.

Whether you're buying new or used, it's crucial to select cribs that meet the current stringent safety standards. Used cribs can become less sturdy over time due to age, humidity and frequent use. This could pose serious risks to your baby.

The slats of your crib should be spaced no more than 3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep children from being wedged between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secured. Check the slats and mattress support rims and the hardware for any damaged or loose components.

It is also advisable to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets, as their safety might be at risk. Don't buy or accept cribs with a drop-side rail. This feature was banned in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for safety reasons.

Style

While all cribs must adhere to strict safety standards, there are numerous design variations. Some of the differences are aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others could impact the ease to clean and use the crib. Some features, like finials and drop sides, aren't safe and should be avoided, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are popular with parents.

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

Cribs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the ones we prefer are those that combine style and function. For exahild grows. The majority of cribs include a conversion kit so you can convert the crib into the toddler bed or daybed once your little one outgrows it. It is recommended to select a crib that is tested and certified by a third-party organisation. 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 finishes or chemicals.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep crib is one of the top-rated cribs available and it's easy to assemble and has a simple design that doesn't have any jarring pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than those of other cribs. However, one parent tester reported that her child slept well and the crib was in good condition when she gave it to a friend as her second baby.

Another great option is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a modern appearance. It's more expensive than other cribs, however it's durable and comes with a number of features that make up the cost. It can, for instance, be converted into a bassinet or toddler bed and is able to be moved on wheels, making it easy to move from room to room. It comes with a canopy that can be used to create an atmosphere that resembles a womb for your baby. This adds a stylish touch in any nursery.

The only drawback to this crib is that it doesn't include a mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. However, it's a secure and comfortable crib that can be adapted to your child's needs from a newborn to a toddler.

No Dangling or Chewable Components

The safest cribs do not have chewable or dangling components. If something is hung above or below their crib, this could cause the rails to pull or pose a strangulation risk. Babies are extremely grabbing. If parents decide to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they should be sure that the items are securely secured and out of baby's reach.

In addition to the security features of our top infant cribs, we also take into consideration how easy it is to set up. The crib should be easy enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or spending a large amount of time. Many parents report that the process of assembling a modern crib can take less than an hour and the included instructions are usually clear and easy to follow.

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

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

Stork Craft Equinox is another great alternative. This beautiful, minimal-style crib is low-profile, so parents with small cot beds feet can reach their child and calm them. It also has a good reputation for quality and is available in white, cherry and espresso colors as well as natural pine colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental protection, and it's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins like lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing not included is the toddler rail. It is available separately. This is a great option for those looking for a high-quality crib that is affordable and built to last.