Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major feature in your nursery for years, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy looking at. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your baby might get into, and choose one that can be easily converted to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
As parents as parents, we want to provide our children the best start in life, and that begins with a safe crib. You don't want an old crib that may contain a lot of broken or missing parts, and you don't want one that isn't conforming to the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of a crib should be spaced evenly so that children do not get their heads or fingers within them. They shouldn't include any decorative cutouts or other embellishments which could result in injuries. The mattress support system, which is essential to the security of your crib, should be able to be adjusted to various heights so that it can expand with your child.
You'll also want to avoid hanging objects like blind strings or curtains, because they pose the risk of strangulation to your baby. Check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be removed. However it won't stay down for long. These are useful for parents who wish to co-sleep, but without the dangers of bed-sharing, but make certain that you're in a space that is away from windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.
If you are seeking an eco-friendly crib, select one constructed from sustainable forests. It's also a good idea to select a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed a test for low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go a step more, consider a crib that is made from sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
No matter if you want to design an elegant or classic nursery, a chic crib will be a great option. The SnuzPod4 is a great choice for small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. 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 made with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors that will match any style. It's a bit heavier than the 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 compared to our other top choices.
While it's a great option for smaller spaces, its unique design can be difficult to find bedding and sheets for. It's also a bit heavier than some of our other options and will probably require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard when you move from room to the next.
Standard cribs are typically constructed of wood, like maple oak, ash mahogany, cherry or birch. They tend to be longer-lasting than other materials, and are resistant to nicks and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over hardwoods that are more durable to save money. This can make a crib susceptible to damage and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of the standard crib is that it usually includes a toddler rail, which will help keep your child safe from falling off and climbing. But keep in mind that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail for added security.
Convertibility
There are numerous things to consider when choosing a crib. You must consider the size, style, and slat style and if it's convertible or not. It is essential to pick a crib that you like since it will be there for your baby for many years. You should also select a crib that will fit into your home's decor whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib is an excellent option since it grows with your child until it becomes a toddler bed, and later to a larger bed. This will save money in the long run because you don't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs stand out more than other. One of them is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it is in compliance with or exceeds the government safety standards for construction and finish. It also has three adjustable mattress settings and a low profile that makes it easier to get your child in and out of it. It's easy to put together this crib and takes less than 15 minutes using a cordless driver/drill.
Another option is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold certified. It is a classic crib that can be transformed into an infant bed or a daybed. This crib is easy to put together and its low profile makes it easy for parents to get in and out.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists looking to keep their nursery decor simple and tidy. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be made to become a toddler bed or full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly manufacturing techniques. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used alongside the brand's mattresses that are free of toxic substances.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality should have sturdy construction and straightforward assembly instructions that allow for an easy and painless installation. And a design that is compatible with the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are many different cribs available to be bought at various prices.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, is one of the most versatile options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet or crib or as a toddler bed. It can also gently soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle slope for babies who are reflux. The canopy and drape rods envelop the baby in the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can also double as a play yard that can be carried around, giving your child the security and comfort to nap on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice style. It combines a modern style with sustainable materials. The solid wood and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is produced sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could catch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib that matches their contemporary or modern home. Others may prefer a more refined design that is in keeping with the décor of the room. If you fall into 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 stylish model can be converted from a bassinet to a mini-crib and then a full-size crib, without the requirement for mattresses or bars.
If infant cot bed 're a parent who isn't in the mood for fussiness, choose the simpler and cleaner-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to aid your baby's development into an adult. However, they have more of a traditional style compared to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.