by Stephanie Lopes
Do you have a baby on the way? Purchasing the right crib can play a big role in comfortably welcoming baby into the world. Newborns sleep for up to 17 hours per day, so a crib is a heavily used item in those first few months – and even first years, depending on the type of crib purchased.
With so many options available, which crib will be best for baby? Considering safety as well as lifestyle items can assist in narrowing the search – with the best crib ultimately depending on the family’s needs and desires as well as the baby’s uniqueness.
New cribs bought in the U.S. must meet certain standards, and other seals and certifications can indicate even higher quality.
In the U.S., all cribs sold must pass stringent safety regulations set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Check cpsc.gov/SafeSleep for the latest recalls on cribs and crib accessories.
Two common certifications indicate that the crib meets even higher standards: the Juvenile Products Manufactures Association (JPMA) seal (exceeds federal and state laws) and the Greenguard Gold certification (product doesn’t have certain chemicals).
Lower mattress heights can help hinder falling.
After a few months, some babies pull themselves up on the side of the crib, and some can even hoist themselves up to climb over the side. An adjustable mattress height setting allows caregivers to move the mattress up and down based on a baby’s developmental stage.
Keiki can get appendages stuck in crib slats.
How wide apart are the crib slats? Does the crib have mesh sides? Slats that are too wide apart can present a danger to babies and toddlers, as their arms or legs can get stuck in the gaps.
Set up the crib with safety in mind.
Crib mattress should fit snuggly in the crib, and it is recommended to pair the crib with its recommended mattress to ensure safety. Soft, tightly fitted sheets can cover the mattress, but the CPSC no longer recommends crib bumpers due to suffocation risks.
The American Academy of Pediatrics also says to leave loose blankets, pillows, stuffed toys and other items out of the sleep space. Keeping cribs away from windows and with adequate ventilation are two other recommendations to keep baby sleeping soundly and safely.
After ensuring safety, aspects like aesthetics, convertibility, size and value can be considered.
Many cribs options are available. The type of crib chosen often depends on the family’s needs, budget, space available and other lifestyle considerations.
Bassinets, cradles and bedside sleepers work well for the first few months of baby’s life.
These smaller crib options are great for newborns, but baby will typically outgrow these once they can push up and roll over. Usually bassinets, cradles and bedside sleepers are portable, affordable and great for keeping baby nearby during the early months, but realize they are a short-term sleeping solution.
“Smart” bassinets are becoming a popular, rather expensive, newborn sleeping option, but research varies on their long-term effectiveness – especially in regard to white noise machines.
Many modern “smart” bassinets will rock back and forth, play white noise and be attached to an app – and these can be priced at well over $1,000.
A June 2024 Consumer Reports story states, “…if you’re considering splurging on a Snoo, you should know that experts have raised concerns that the constant white noise may damage hearing, the swaddle may inhibit movement and development, and some babies may have trouble transitioning to a regular (non-rocking) bassinet or crib. The bottom line is that, especially given the popularity and potential benefits of the Snoo, much more research is needed on its efficacy and safety so that parents can make more informed decisions about whether it’s the right choice for them.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also released a report in 2023 guiding caregivers to keep sound machines at a low volume, further away from the infant and played for a shorter period of time. “Research shows that some infant sleep machines produce very loud sounds. Many exceed sound levels recommended for hospital nurseries,” says Sophie Balk, MD, lead writer on the AAP report.
According to the AAP, “extended periods” of noise over 70 decibels can damage hearing.
Standard size cribs offer multiple mattress heights and room for baby to grow.
The tried-and-true, standard size crib often takes up more space in a bedroom or nursery, but it can usually be used until a baby is ready to transition to a toddler bed.
Convertible cribs can be used for many years and can transform from crib to toddler bed to full-size beds and more, depending on the bed bought.
Convertible cribs often are standard-size cribs that offer more options, like 3-in-1 or even 7-in-1 convertibility. These are usually pricier than a standard crib but have become popular choices for a baby’s nursery.
Some convertible cribs are also multi-functional cribs. These cribs attach the diaper changing area along with storage space, but it’s important to check the dimensions as they often require a larger footprint.
Play yards and portable/folding cribs come in a variety of sizes and can be used for travel.
If your family needs flexibility in a crib – like for traveling or moving the crib from room-to-room – a play crib or portable/folding crib might be the best option. (For full transparency, both my babies have used the Lotus Travel Crib by Guava, and it has worked well for us.)
Note that the locking mechanisms for portable cribs (especially those with wheels) should be carefully examined for safety, and only highly trusted cribs should be considered. Also, the sizes of portable cribs vary, so considering space availability and how long your family wants to use that particular crib can narrow your search.
Round cribs offer an old-school, dreamy aesthetic.
Round cribs are often similar in size and design compared to a standard size crib, but their special circular style offers appeal to those who desire something special for the baby’s sleeping space.
Whichever crib you choose, considering safety and personal lifestyle checklist items can assist in selecting the right crib – one where baby can sleep safely and soundly.
