Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key element in your nursery for years, so it's important to pick a crib that you love admiring. Avoid cribs with cutouts and drop-sides, since your child may fall into. Instead, choose an option that can easily be converted into a daybed or toddler.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This begins with a crib that's safe. You shouldn't use an old crib that might contain a number of loose or damaged parts, and you shouldn't buy one that's not up to current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats in a crib should be tightly spaced so that children aren't falling or catching their heads in the slats, and they shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could create a risk. The mattress support system, which is vital to the safety of your crib should be able to be adjusted to various heights so that it can grow with your child.
It is also recommended to avoid hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains because they pose a strangulation risk for your baby. It's a good idea inspect your crib on a regular basis for missing or loose objects, and replace any that are loosened in the course of time.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be removed. However, it will not stay down for very long. They are great for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but make certain that you're in an area away from radiators and windows and that your baby isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.
If you are seeking an eco-friendly crib, choose one made of wood from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that has been Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you want to go even more, consider a crib that is made from sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
No matter if you want to create a classic or minimalist nursery, a stylish crib is a fantastic option. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim which makes it a perfect choice for small spaces. cots and tots and has an adjustable lower height mattress. One of our test participants, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most beautiful cribs we've seen even in a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is made from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety contemporary colors that can be matched to any aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs we've tested, but it's durable enough to get 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 up more space in the nursery than some of our other top picks.
It's a good choice for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also heavier than the other options and will require to be disassembled to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are usually constructed of wood, such as maple oak, ash mahogany, cherry, or birch. They are generally longer-lasting than other materials, and are resistant to damage better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This could make the crib more prone to dent and scratches, which could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to keep your child from falling out or climbing. Remember that some cribs for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are numerous things to consider. You have to consider the size, style and slat type and whether it's convertible or not. It's crucial to choose the crib you love since it will be there for your baby for many years. It is also important to select a crib that is a good fit in with the decor of your home regardless of whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib is a fantastic option because it can grow with your child into a toddler bed and then a full-size bed. This will save money in the long run since you don't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finish. It also has three mattress settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it easier to take your child into and out of it. This crib is also relatively easy to build in less than 15 minutes using an electric drill or driver.
Another good option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great buy. It is an old-fashioned crib that can be converted into an infant bed or a daybed. It is also easy to put together and has a low profile that allows it to be easily reached to and out for small parents.
The last crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for minimalists looking to keep their room simple and clean. This chic crib can be transformed into a full-size or toddler bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly manufacturing methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and designed to be used alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality should have sturdy construction and simple assembly instructions that allow for relatively frustration-free installation. A stylish design that fits with your nursery decor is also essential. Cribs are available in terms of cost however there are some models that are suitable for every budget.
For instance, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most adaptable options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or toddler bed. It can also rock and roll to gently help your baby sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies who have reflux. The canopy and drape rods provide the baby with a cozy, womb-like atmosphere. It can also be used as a portable play space, providing your child with a secure and comfortable place to nap when they are moving around.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another alternative that doesn't sacrifice design. It blends a modern design with eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is sustainably made in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, including no drop-sides or decorative cutouts which could catch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and does not have sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Others may prefer a more elegant style that matches the interior decor of the room. If you fall into the latter category of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. The elegantly designed model can be converted from bassinet to an infant crib, and then to a full-sized crib, all without mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who isn't a fan of excessive fussiness, consider a crib that is less cluttered and more clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to help your baby grow into a toddler. They do however have more of a traditional style compared to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.