Choosing the Best Crib Newborn
The Westport Cot Bed is a minimalist crib that can look gorgeous in a Scandi-style nursery. It also comes with a variety of versatility, with three different mattress support heights and the capability to convert into a toddler bed.
Bassinets are the best option for those with a small house. Cribs can take up a lot more space. However, many parents choose a crib for security reasons.
Safety
Selecting the best crib for your newborn is crucial to your baby's health and wellbeing. You want to make sure that it meets current safety standards, and is free of dangers that could harm your child during sleep. It should be strong and well-constructed, without loose parts that might catch on clothing or pose a choking hazard. It is crucial to follow the directions of the manufacturer to set up and use the crib and to regularly inspect the crib.
Check the distance between the slats. It shouldn't be more than 2 and 3/4 inches to prevent your baby from getting their head or limbs caught between them. You should also be able to easily reach and observe your baby's crib. If you aren't, the slats are too close together and need to be a bit larger.
Another aspect of the crib to consider is the mattress support system. website should be adjustable to different levels so that you can lower the mattress as your child grows. This will reduce the risk of your baby getting out of the crib which is a frequent occurrence as they learn to crawl.
Other safety features to consider include the fitted sheet that is able to fit the mattress in a secure way and an enduring and solid construction. Pick a crib with fixed sides instead of one with drop sides. Drop sides can be hazardous for your child. You should also sleep in the same bedroom as your baby until they are old enough for them to sleep alone.
Last but not least, ensure that the crib is removed from windows and radiators, and that dangling items like curtains or blind cords are not in reach. It is also recommended to remove any items that could be a choking hazard like blankets or pillows. Be cautious when buying used cribs as they may not be in compliance with current safety standards, or have been recalled.
Design
It is important to keep in mind that cribs may look the same but must still comply with strict safety standards. For this reason, most cribs we examined have a similar design to ensure uniformity of structural solidity. For instance, many have circular bars that don't have any gaps or rough areas that could trap or pinch babies. We also tested and rated each crib on how easy it was to use and assemble. More parts can lead to more confusion, so we suggest choosing a crib that comes with clear instructions that are easy to follow to minimize frustration.
The Evolur Sprout crib is among our top picks. It features a chic, contemporary design and comes in a range of colors, including two-toned options. It also has an all-purpose mattress fitting and is Greenguard Gold Certified for having low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Stork Craft Equinox 3 in 1 is another alternative. This crib is sleek and modern, with minimal features that make it perfect for modern nursery. The crib is available in various colors and has four different mattress heights, so your baby can use it from birth to toddler. The crib was sturdy and stable. It did not flex or creak when a heavy child climbed in.
If you're thinking of having more children, you may be interested in a convertible crib. These options can be transformed into a toddler's bed and then into a larger mattress, providing the best value for money. Our test parents gave the Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib high marks as an example of a convertible bed. Several of them commented that the drop-down side rail made nighttime feedings easier and safer, and that the crib was big enough for the baby to feel comfortable while mom and dad were asleep.
If you prefer a traditional style, the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 is a great option. It is less expensive than the Stork Craft and has a timeless design that will fit in with most nursery decors. It has three different heights for the mattress, but certain parents and toddlers may find it a bit shallow.
Mattress
Newborns can be messy, and a washable crib mattress is a must. Baby spills and other accidents can leave mattresses damp and dirty that can cause mildew and other bacteria that can be harmful to infants. Look for a product that can be washed with a cloth or scrubbed with mild cleaner. You should also pick a mattress cover with a waterproof material to prevent fluids from seeping into the mattress and causing health problems.
Look for a mattress that is rated up to 10 years so that it is suitable for toddlers. Many of the mattresses featured in this review are reversible and have toddler and infant sides that allows you to use them right from birth until your child is ready for an adult-sized bed.
A firm mattress for the crib is best, as it will support their spines while they are developing. A super-firm sleep surface also reduces the risk of SIDS which is more likely to occur when an infant's head sinks into a mattress that is soft.
Examine the label of the mattress to confirm that it meets Consumer Product Safety Commission standards. The CPSC requires that mattresses be tested for flammability, waterproofing lead, as well as other chemicals that might pose risk to infants. You'll also find certifications such as Greenguard, GOTS and CertiPUR-US which are a good indicator that the mattress has been examined for the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can harm infants' respiratory and nervous systems.
The weight of the mattress is another factor to consider. Sheet changes at night require that you lift and move the mattress. If you have difficulty lifting heavy objects or don't want carry a heavy item then consider getting a crib mattress that is lighter. Newton Wovenaire, for example weighs only 8 pounds while Naturepedic Organic Crib Mattress - Dual Firmness weighs 20 lbs. This makes it one of the heavier mattresses featured in this review. It is also made of foam, not inners with woven-core that makes it more maneuverable when compared to the heavier coil mattress.
Assembly
New parents will appreciate a crib that's easy to assemble. Choose a crib with hardware that is securely secured with without sharp edges or rough spots that could rub your baby's skin. Also, avoid any cribs with drop-sides, or headboard/footboard cutouts -- these features aren't compatible with the current safety standards.
If you decide to buy a convertible crib, you will have to purchase an additional kit to convert it into an adult bed. These kits are offered separately by the majority of manufacturers. They're often inexpensive, and they'll assist your child in transitioning to a bigger bed more seamlessly.
Convertible cribs can be a great investment for families with several children. These cribs are designed to last, and are typically able to be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed.
The DaVinci Jaden 4-in-1 crib is a solid-wood crib that is GREENGUARD Gold certified and has four mattress heights. It has a traditional style and is available in slate or white grey to fit with almost every nursery decor. The crib is easily moved around and comes with locking wheels. It is suitable for the majority of twin mattresses. The crib took our test subjects just 23 minutes to assemble.
The Sprout Crib, another top-rated crib is made from sustainably harvested Baltic birch. It is in compliance with all U.S. safety standards, in addition to those of Australia, Canada and Europe. It also has a stylish minimalist design that doesn't be a problem with any bedroom decor. The Sprout is among the most lightweight cribs we've tested, weighing just 6kg, making it easy to move around and has an ideal travel bag.
The Oeuf Modern Crib, which was runner-up in our tests, is made from sustainable New Zealand pine. It has won numerous prizes from parenting magazines like BabyCenter and Babble. It has a medium height profile and can be transformed from an infant crib into a toddler bed with or without a rail. It is easy to assemble and has a lot of aesthetic appeal. However the slick finish could be scratched in normal use.