Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major fixture in your nursery for a long time so it's crucial to pick a crib that you love seeing. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides as your child may fall into. Instead, opt for one that can easily be transformed into a toddler or daybed.
Safety
As parents, we want to give our children the best start in life, and that begins with a safe crib. It's not necessary to have cribs that have lots of missing or loose pieces and you shouldn't choose one that isn't up to the current safety standards. If you're buying a new crib, look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is up to the highest safety standards.
The slats in the crib should be spaced to prevent children from catching their fingers or head in them and also they shouldn't contain any cut-outs for decorative purposes or other ornaments that could pose an injury risk. A mattress support system is vital to the crib's safety and should be able to adjust to different sizes to accommodate your child as they grow.
It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects like blind strings or curtains, because they pose an opportunity for strangulation for your baby. Examine your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be lowered, but it won't stay in place for long. These are great for parents who do not want to share a bed. Be sure to keep your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you are seeking a green crib, choose one made of wood from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed tests to ensure that there are no emissions of chemicals. If you're looking for something even superior, select a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA chemical compounds, BPA-based chemicals phthalates and other chemical compounds.
Style
If you're looking to design an elegant or classic nursery, a chic crib will be a great option. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim which makes it a perfect option for spaces that are tight. 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 a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back crib is made with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors to fit any style. It's heavier than other cribs that we've tried, but it's sturdy enough to get through 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 up more space in the nursery compared to other top picks.
While a good option for smaller spaces, its unique design may be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also more bulkier than our other picks and will have to be dismantled to fit through doorways that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, such as oak or maple. Cot Bed are also made of mahogany, birch or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and they resist nicks and dings much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib more susceptible to scratches and dents, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of a standard crib is that it often includes a toddler rail, which can help keep your child safe from climbing and falling out. Be aware that some cribs designed for toddlers will require the purchase of an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are numerous aspects to take into consideration. It is important to think about the size, style and slat type, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It is crucial to choose a crib that you like since it will be used by your baby for a long time. You should also select the crib that fits into your home's decor regardless of whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib is an excellent choice because it will grow with your child until it becomes an infant bed, and eventually a full-size bed. This will save you money in the end because you won't need to buy a separate mattress 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 great 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 take your child into and out of it. It is easy to assemble this crib and takes less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a good alternative. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic design and can be made into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. This 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 a great alternative for minimalists who wish to keep their nursery decor simple and clean. This stylish crib can be converted into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. This crib was built in Italy with environmentally-friendly manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy structure and simple assembly instructions that result in relatively frustration-free installation. A stylish design that is compatible with the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs can run the gamut in terms of cost however, there are models that suit every budget.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options that are available. It can be used as a bassinet crib, or as a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for reflux babies. The added canopy and drape rod encase your child in a warm like a womb. It can also double as a portable play yard providing your child with an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to nap on the go.
Another option that doesn't sacrifice on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines sustainable materials. The solid wood and Baltic birch plywood crib is sustainably made in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, including no drop-sides or decorative cutouts that could snag clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges, and can easily be dressed by a sheet.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more elegant style that complements the decor of the room. If your preference falls into the latter look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. The elegantly designed model can be converted from a bassinet into a mini crib and then to a full-sized crib, all without the need for bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who isn't interested in fussiness, go for the less cluttered and more elegant 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 a more traditional look as compared to other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.