Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you like. It will be part of your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs with cutouts and drop-sides as your child might fall in. Instead, pick a design which is easily converted to 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. You don't want to use an old crib that might have a lot of loose or missing parts, and you certainly shouldn't buy one that's not up to current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, be sure to look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it meets the most important safety requirements.
The slats that comprise the crib must be spaced to prevent children from falling or catching their heads in them, and they shouldn't have any decorative cut outs or other embellishments that could pose an injury risk. A mattress support system is vital to the crib's safety and must be capable of adjusting to various heights to accommodate your baby as they grow.
Avoid dangling items such as blind strings or curtains, because they could strangle your baby. It's a good idea to examine your crib frequently for loose or missing items, and replace any that are loosened in the course of time.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be lowered however it won't stay down for very long. These are great for parents who don't want to share the bed. Be sure to place your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're looking for a crib which is environmentally friendly, consider one made from wood from sustainable forests. You should also choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed the tests to ensure that there are no emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to buy something more durable, consider a crib that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA chemical compounds, BPA-based chemicals phthalates and other chemicals.
Style
No matter if you want to design a classic or minimalist nursery, a chic crib will be a great addition. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek which makes it a perfect fit for tight spaces. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our test participants, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most attractive cribs we've seen, even in a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of contemporary colors that can be matched to any style. It's heavier than other cribs we've test, but it's durable enough to last until toddlerhood 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 other top picks.
It's a great choice for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. tots and cots 's also a bit heavier than some of our other choices and will probably require dismantling in order to fit through standard doors when moving from room to space.
Standard cribs are made of wood such as oak or maple. They can also be made from cherry, mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and can withstand scratches and dings better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that certain manufacturers use pine instead of more durable hardwoods because it's cheaper. This can make a crib susceptible to scratches and dents and could require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of a standard crib is that it often comes with a toddler rail which will help to keep your child safe from falling off and climbing. But keep in mind that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail to ensure safety.
Convertibility
When you are deciding on a crib, there are many things to consider. Consider the size, style, slats, and if it is convertible. It's crucial to choose a crib that you like since it will be there for your baby for a long time. You also want to choose a crib that is a good fit in with the decor of your home, whether that be traditional or modern.
A convertible crib is a fantastic option since it grows with your child to a toddler bed, and later a full-size bed. This can save you money over time because you won't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs on the market however, some stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finish. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings and a low-profile that allows you to easily get your child in and out of it. It is also easy to build, taking less than 15 minutes using a cordless drill/driver.
Another good option is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and a great buy. It is a classic crib that can be converted into the toddler bed or daybed. The crib is simple to assemble, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to move into and out.
The last crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent alternative for minimalists who wish to keep their nursery design simple and clean. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be transformed to become a full-size toddler bed or bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and made to be used in conjunction alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality is one that has a solid construction and simple assembly instructions. This makes the assembly painless. A chic design that complements the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are many different crib models that can be purchased at different prices.
cots offers , for instance, is among the most flexible options available that are available. It can be used as a bassinet, 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 added canopy and drape rod will encase your child in a warm baby-like womb. It can also double as a portable play area providing your child with an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to rest on the go.
Another option that doesn't skimp on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with environmentally friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe and can be passed on to siblings. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could catch clothing. It has no rough or sharp edges, and is easily dressed by a sheet.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Others might prefer a more refined design that complements the decor 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-looking model converts from bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full crib all without mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you are a parent who isn't a fan of fussiness, choose a crib that is simpler and cleaner looking. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the parts you need to allow your baby to grow into a toddler, however they're more of a traditional style than other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.