Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key element in your nursery for a long time, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy looking at. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your child could fall into, and select an option that can be easily converted to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
As parents as parents, we want to provide our babies the best start in life, and that starts with a safe crib. It's not necessary to have an infant crib with many missing or loose pieces or is one that doesn't meet current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is in compliance with the most stringent safety requirements.
The slats on a crib must be closely spaced so that children cannot catch their heads or fingers in them. They shouldn't include any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could cause injury. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the safety of your crib, must be adjustable to various heights so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.
It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects, such as curtains or blind strings, because they pose an opportunity for strangulation for your infant. It's a good idea to examine your crib frequently for missing or loose items, and replace any that have gotten lost over time.
Some cribs come with the option of a side panel that could be lifted but it won't be down for very long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share the bed. Just make sure you put your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're seeking a crib that is eco-friendly, think about one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's also a good idea to pick a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to buy something better, choose a crib that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemicals.
Style
If you're planning to work with an elegant or minimalist design, an elegant crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 can be used in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It also has a lower mattress setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib was "up there with the most attractive cribs we've seen, even in a sea grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is made from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a range of modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs we tested, but durable enough to last until the toddler years 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 square footage in the nursery than our other top cribs.
It's a great choice for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also a bit heavier than some of our other options and may require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard when moving from room to room.
Standard cribs are usually 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 resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. But be aware that some manufacturers use pine instead of more durable hardwoods because it's less expensive. This can make a crib more susceptible to damage and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of the standard crib is that it typically comes with a toddler rail which will help to keep your child safe from falling down and climbing. But keep in mind that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail to ensure safety.
Convertibility
There are many aspects to take into consideration when selecting the right crib. It is important to think about the size, style, and slat style, 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 select a crib that is a good fit to the decor of your home, whether that be traditional or contemporary.
A convertible crib will grow with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, and then an adult size bed. This 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, but certain models stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It is GREENGUARD gold certified which means it is in compliance with or exceeds government safety standards in 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 easy to assemble this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a great option. This crib is a great value and is GREENGUARD Gold certified. It is an old-fashioned crib that can be transformed into the toddler bed or daybed. mini cot beds is easy to put together, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to move into and out.
The last crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for minimalists who want to keep their bedroom simple and clean. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be transformed to become an adult bed or a full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy with environmentally-friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A quality crib will have a sturdy structure and simple assembly instructions that lead to relatively frustration-free installation. And a design that fits with the decor of your nursery is essential. There are a variety of models of cribs that can be purchased at different costs.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet or crib or a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy slope for babies who are reflux. The canopy and drape rod add-ons will encase your baby in an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can also double as a portable play area providing your child with a comfortable and secure place to nap on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice design. It combines a modern design with sustainable materials. The solid birch and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is made sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could catch clothing. It is easy to dress using a sheet and has no sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to match their contemporary or modern home. Some prefer a more elegant design that complements the decor of the room. If you fall in the latter category you should consider 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 bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who isn't into fussiness, opt for the simpler and cleaner-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to aid your baby's development into an adult. They do however have a more traditional look as compared to other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.