Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you love. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your baby could fall into, and choose an option that can be easily converted into a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best start in life. This starts with a crib that's safe. You shouldn't use an infant crib with many missing or loose pieces and you shouldn't choose one that doesn't meet the current safety standards. If you're buying a new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it is in compliance with the most stringent safety standards.
The crib's slats should be positioned so that children do not get their heads or fingers in the slats. They shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could cause injuries. The mattress support system, which is vital to the security of your crib, should be able to be adjusted to various heights to allow it to grow with your child.
You'll also want to avoid hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains, as these present the risk of strangulation to your baby. Be sure to check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if necessary.
Some cribs come with a side panel which can be removed. However, it will not stay down for long. They are ideal for parents who do not want to share a bed. Just make sure you put your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you're looking for a crib that is green, you should consider one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. It's recommended to pick a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go a step further, you should look for 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
Whether you're working with a classic or minimalist design, an elegant crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is a great choice for smaller spaces due to its slim and sleek. It also has 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 the most attractive cribs we've seen even in the midst of grey!"
This classic high-back crib has been constructed 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 occupies more space in the nursery than 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 heavier than our other choices and may require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard when you move from room to space.
Standard cribs are constructed of wood, including maple, oak, ash, mahogany, cherry or birch. They are typically more durable than other materials and can withstand scratches and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers choose pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib susceptible to damage and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.
nursery cots to the standard crib is that it usually includes a toddler rail, which can help keep your child safe from climbing and falling out. Keep in mind that some cribs for toddlers will require you to purchase an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are many factors to consider. You have to consider the size, style and slat type, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It is crucial to choose a crib that you love, as it will be used by your child for a long time. It is also important to choose the crib that will go with the decor of your home, regardless of whether it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib will grow with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, then a full size bed. nursery cots will save you money in the long run because you won't have to buy a separate mattress for your child.
There are numerous convertible cribs on the market however, certain models stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It is GREENGUARD gold certified that means it meets or exceeds government safety standards in the construction and finish. It also has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and an extremely low profile, making it easy to get your baby in and out of the crib. It is simple to put together this crib in less than 15 minutes using a cordless driver/drill.
Another option is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great deal. It's a classic style and can be made into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is easy to put together and its low profile makes it easy for parents to get into and out.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their room simple and clean. This stylish crib can be transformed into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy using eco-friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxic substances.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy construction, and simple assembly instructions. This will make the installation relatively painless. A stylish design that is compatible with the decor of your nursery is essential. There are numerous crib models that can be bought at various prices.
For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet crib or as a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle slope for reflux babies. The add-on drape rod and canopy envelop your child in a warm baby-like womb. It could also serve as a portable play yard providing your child with an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to rest on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another alternative that doesn't sacrifice style. It combines a modern style with sustainable materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe and can be passed on to siblings. It meets all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could scratch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents might want a minimalist crib to match their modern or contemporary home, whereas others may prefer a more formal design that suits the room's decor. If you fall into the latter category look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant-looking model converts from bassinet to a mini crib and then to a full crib all without adding bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who's not in the mood for fussiness, choose the more simple and clean-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to assist your baby to grow 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.