Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major fixture in your nursery for many years, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy admiring. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides, as your child could fall in. Instead, pick an option that can easily be transformed into a daybed or toddler.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This starts with a crib that is safe. Baby Crib shouldn't use a crib that has a lot loose or missing pieces or is one that doesn't meet current safety standards. When buying a crib, make sure it has the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of a crib should be spaced evenly so that children cannot catch their heads or fingers within them. They should not include any decorative cutouts or other embellishments which could cause injuries. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the safety of your crib, should be adjustable to different levels so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.
Avoid hanging objects such as blind strings or curtains, as they can strangle your baby. Check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if needed.
Some cribs come with the option of a side panel that could be removed, but it won't stay down for very long. These are ideal for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but make certain that you're in a space away from radiators and windows and that your baby isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.
If you're looking for a crib that is environmentally friendly, consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. You should also consider one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go even further, look for a crib made of sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
If you're looking to create an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib will be a great option. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek and is a great option for spaces that are tight. It is also GREENGUARD Certified and comes with a lower height mattress setting. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the most beautiful cribs we've seen, even in a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back crib is crafted from solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors that will match any style. It's heavier than other cribs we've examined, but it's strong enough to last through toddler-graduation and beyond. Its longer sides make it less aesthetically-pleasing than some other cribs, and you won't have a view of your little one from all four sides. It also takes more space in the nursery when compared to some of our other top choices.
It's a great option for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also a bit bulkier than our other picks, and it will likely need to be disassembled to fit through standard doors when you move from room to space.
Standard cribs are usually constructed from wood, such as oak or maple. They can also be made from mahogany, birch or cherry. They are generally more durable than other materials and resist nicks and dings better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that some manufacturers use pine instead of more durable hardwoods since it's less expensive. This can make a crib susceptible to scratches and dents, which may require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling or climbing. Remember, however, that many cribs designed for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are a lot of aspects to take into consideration when selecting the right crib. Consider the size, style, slats and whether it's convertible. It's crucial to choose the crib you love since it will be used by your baby for a long time. You should also choose a crib to fit in with the style of your home, whether it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib is a great choice because it will grow with your child to a toddler bed, and later to a larger bed. This will save you money over the long term because you won't have to buy a separate mattress for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs available However, some stand out better than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it is in compliance with or exceeds the government safety standards for construction and finishing. It also has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and an extremely low profile, making it easy to move your baby out and in of the crib. It is easy to assemble this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
Another option is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. Baby Cot is GREENGUARD certified Gold and a great buy. It has a classic design and can be made into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed by the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is also easy to put together and has a low profile that allows it to be easily reached to and out of for smaller parents.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery design simple and clean. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be outfitted as an adult bed or a full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was built in Italy using eco-friendly production methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and is specifically designed to work alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy construction and easy assembly instructions. This makes the assembly easy. A stylish design that is compatible with your nursery decor is also important. Cribs are available in terms of cost however there are some models that are suitable for every budget.
For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most adaptable options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or toddler bed. It can also rock and roll to gently rock your baby to sleep or create a gentle incline for reflux babies. The added canopy and drape rod will encase your baby in a cozy like a womb. It can also be used as a portable play space that provides your child with a secure and comfortable spot to sleep while on the move.
Another option that doesn't skimp on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with sustainable materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, which include no drop-sides or decorative cutouts that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and does not have sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to match their modern or contemporary home. Others may prefer a more elegant style that complements the décor of the room. If you're in the latter group of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This elegant model converts from a bassinet to the size of a mini-crib, and then into a full-size crib, without the need for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent who isn't a fan of the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is less cluttered and more clean looking. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the pieces you'll need to allow your baby to develop into a toddler, however they have more of a traditional look than some other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.