Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major element in your nursery for years and it's essential to choose a crib you enjoy seeing. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your child could fall into, and choose one that is able to be converted to a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
As parents, we want to give our children the best possible start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You shouldn't use an old crib that may contain a number of loose or damaged parts, and you shouldn't buy one that's not in compliance with current safety standards. When buying a crib, make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The crib's slats should be spaced evenly so that children do not get their heads or fingers in them. They should also not have any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could result in injury. A mattress support system is crucial to the safety of the crib and should be capable of adjusting to various heights to accommodate your baby as they develop.
You'll also want to avoid dangling objects such as blind strings or curtains as these present a strangulation risk for your child. Be sure to check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs come with a side panel which can be lowered. However it won't stay down for long. These are useful for parents who want to co-sleep, but without the dangers of bed-sharing, but make certain that you're in a space that is away from windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're looking for a crib which is green, you should consider one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. You should also choose one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed the tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you're looking for something even better, choose a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemicals.
Style
If you're looking to design a classic or minimalist nursery, a chic crib can be a wonderful option. The SnuzPod4 fits well in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It is also GREENGUARD Certified and has a lower height mattress setting. One of our test participants, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the most beautiful cribs we've seen even in the midst of grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is made from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of modern colors that will match any style. It's heavier than other cribs we've test, but it's 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 takes more space in the nursery compared to some of our other top picks.
While it's a great choice for small spaces, its distinctive design can be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also more bulkier than the other options and will need to be dismantled 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 more durable than other materials, and they resist damage and nicks much better than soft pine. However, be aware that some manufacturers use pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable because it's less expensive. This can make the crib more susceptible to scratches and dent, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to the standard crib is that it usually includes a toddler rail, which can help keep your child safe from falling off and climbing. Be aware that some cribs designed for toddlers will require you to buy an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are many aspects to take into consideration when selecting the right crib. You must consider the size, style and slat style and whether it's convertible or not. It is crucial to choose a crib that you like since it will be with your baby for many years. It is also important to select a crib that will fit into your home's decor whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib is a fantastic choice because it will grow with your child until it becomes a toddler bed and then a full-size bed. This will save money over time because you won't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
Certain convertible cribs stand out more than other. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It is GREENGUARD gold certified, which means it meets or surpasses government safety standards in design and construction. In addition, it has three adjustable mattress height settings and a low profile that makes it easy to get your baby in and out of the crib. It's easy to put together this crib in less than 15 minutes to assemble using the use of a cordless drill/driver.
Another option that is worth considering is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is an excellent value and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It has a classic design and can be transformed into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. It is also easy to assemble and has a low-profile that allows it to be easily reached to and out for small parents.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great alternative for minimalists who wish to keep their nursery designs simple and clean. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be outfitted to become an adult bed or a full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy using eco-friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy construction and simple assembly instructions. This makes the assembly easy. A chic design that is in line with your nursery decor is important. Cribs are available in terms of cost however there are some models that are suitable for every budget.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently help your baby sleep or create an easy slope for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a comfortable womb-like environment. It can also serve as a portable play area, providing your child with a secure and comfortable space to rest when they are traveling.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that doesn't sacrifice design. It combines a modern style with sustainable materials. The solid wood and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is sustainably made in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Others might prefer a more refined design that matches the décor of the room. If you fall into the latter category of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This stylish model can be converted from a bassinet to an infant crib and then a full-size crib with no need for bars or mattresses.
If you're a parent who isn't a fan of excessive fussiness, consider a crib that is more simple and clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to assist your baby to grow into an adult. However, they have an older-style look when as compared to other models, such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.