How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is one of the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. But picking out a good crib can be overwhelming particularly with the number of different designs and security concerns.

Search for a crib with the most stringent safety standards, including no dangling or chewable parts. We also suggest a crib with a broad selection of mattress heights and a stylish design that complements your style.

Safety

Follow the safe sleep guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics when assembling and positioning your baby's crib. It is crucial to avoid putting any items in the crib of your baby 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). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals that are larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to be placed in the crib of your baby. They could easily fall into or be stuck between your baby and the crib bars or they could be engulfed by the mattress.

The best cribs for infants are made from materials that are free of VOCs, harmful chemicals, and other substances. They also comply with strict federal and state regulations regarding structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They're designed to be durable and flexible, allowing them to grow with your child.

It's important that you choose a crib which meets the current safety standards, no matter if you're purchasing a new or used crib. Used cribs may be damaged in their structural integrity due to humidity, age and frequent use, posing grave dangers to your child.

The slats on your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to keep babies from getting trapped between them, and the hardware on the crib should be secured. Check the slats cots and tots mattress support rims and the hardware for any broken or loose components.

It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, since their safety may have been compromised. Don't purchase or buy the crib that has a drop-side rail. This feature was removed in 2012 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.

Style

While all cribs have to adhere to strict safety standards, you'll find numerous design variations. Some are just cosmetic, like the slats have the same length or are spaced further apart, while others could affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Some features, like finials and drop sides 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 is not meant to be used for toys or clothes. It's only intended to be a place for babies to sleep. You can also include a crib on your registry to get help from friends and family when you need one.

Cribs come in all shapes and sizes, but the ones we love best are those that combine style and function. The Storkcraft Equinox is a minimalist crib that looks stunning. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is a must-have for any baby product that is non-toxic and it's able to convert into a toddler bed as well as a daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).

Some cribs are more traditional, such as the DaVinci Jayden 4 in 1. It's a classy crib that can be incorporated into large nurseries, but it occupies more floor space than the smaller and minimalist models, and also has exposed hardware that some may find distracting. It has only three levels of mattress which is a fraction of the competition's number. It's not as sturdy as our other choices.

Another option that has modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. The Babyletto Hudson's all-round mesh and hidden hardware improve airflow and Dr. Casares believes that this is a feature that a lot of new parents will find important. It can also be elevated to a higher height to help reduce colic and reflux, making it suitable for babies aged from birth to 6 months. It's also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary mattress that is also a match. It's important to know that this bed is more expensive than the other top options and requires a separate conversion kit for toddler cot beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

If your baby is sleeping in their crib, it is important that the mattress is at the right level. This will prevent your child from escaping the crib, which could be fatal or dangerous. A mattress that is higher can protect your baby from overheating or suffocation.

A quality crib should have slats or railings that are adjustable to allow you to raise or lower the mattress as your infant grows. A majority of cribs include a conversion kit that allows you can turn the crib into an adult daybed or a toddler bed once your little one outgrows it. It's an excellent idea for you to choose a crib that has been tested and certified by a third-party organization. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification which means that it has been tested to ensure there are minimal chemicals or finishes present in the baby's sleeping space.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib one of the top-rated cribs on the market, and it's easy to put together and features a simple design that doesn't include any complicated pieces or parts. The sides of the crib are shorter than most cribs however one tester reported that her baby slept well in it and remained in good shape when she passed it on to a friend after her second child was born.

Another option that is worth considering is the Stokke Sleepi Crib, which has a unique oval shape that gives it a contemporary style. It's a bit more expensive than most cribs, but it's sturdy and comes with numerous features to make up for the cost. It can, for instance, be transformed into a bassinet, or a toddler bed, and it has wheels so it's easy to move from room to room. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a womb-like environment for your baby and adds an elegant look to any nursery.

The only downside to this crib is that it doesn't come with a mattress, which you'll have to purchase separately. It's a secure, comfortable crib that will grow with your child as they transition from infant to toddler.

No Chewable or Dangling Parts

The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling parts. If something is hung over or below the crib, this could cause the rails to be pulled or create a strangulation risk. Babies are extremely grabbing. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they need to ensure that the items are securely secured and out of baby's reach.

In addition to the safety features of our best infant cribs, we also take into consideration how easy it is to assemble. The crib should be simple enough to put together yourself without the need for special tools or spending a lot of time. Most parents report that assembling a modern crib takes less than an hour, and the included instructions are usually simple and easy to follow.

It is essential to select a crib that lasts for many years. Pick a crib that can be converted from a crib to an infant's bed, and then to a full-size mattress.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for a convertible crib that can be used as a bassinet for the early months and then converted into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It is designed to last and comes in many colors so you can match it with your nursery's design theme.

Another great option is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful, minimalist-style crib is low-profile that allows parents who are small cot beds to reach their child and soothe them. It is renowned for quality and comes in cherry, white and espresso 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 government standards such as ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing missing is the toddler rail. You can purchase it separately. This is a great choice for those who are seeking a top-quality affordable crib that will last.