Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key fixture in your nursery for years and it's essential to pick one you love looking at. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your baby could fall into, and opt for a design 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 that starts with a safe crib. You shouldn't use an old crib that might have a lot of loose or missing parts, and you shouldn't buy one that's not conforming to the current safety standards. If you're buying a new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it meets the most important safety standards.
The slats that comprise the crib must be spaced so that children aren't falling or catching their heads in them, and they shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other ornaments which could cause injury risk. The mattress support system, which is essential to the safety of your crib should be able to be adjusted to various heights to allow it to adapt to the needs of your child.
Avoid hanging items like blind strings or curtains, because they could strangle your baby. It's a good idea to inspect your crib on a regular basis for any missing or loose items, and replace any that have become dislodged in the course of time.
Some cribs come with the option of a side panel that could be lowered, but it won't stay down for long. They are ideal for parents who do not want to share a bed. Just make sure you keep your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're seeking an eco-friendly crib, select one made of sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that has been Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you want to go further, you should look for a crib that's made from sustainable sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
Whether you're working with a classic or minimalist nursery aesthetic, choosing an attractive crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek, making it a good choice for small spaces. It's GREENGUARD Certified and comes with a lower height mattress setting. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the best-looking ones 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 match any aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs that we've tested, but it's durable 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 square footage in the nursery than our other top cribs.
It's a good choice for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also heavier than our other choices 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 of wood, including 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. But be aware that certain manufacturers use pine instead of more durable hardwoods since it's less expensive. This can make the crib more vulnerable to scratches and dent, which may require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to keep your child from falling or climbing. Keep in mind, however, that many cribs for toddlers require you to buy an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are many aspects to take into consideration when selecting a crib. You must consider the size, style and slat style and if 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. cheap cots should also select the crib that fits into your home's decor regardless of whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib is a fantastic choice because it will grow with your child into a toddler bed and then to a larger bed. This can save you money in the long run since you don't need to purchase an additional bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finish. It also has three height settings that can be adjusted and an extremely low profile, making it easy to get your baby out of the crib. It is simple to put together this crib in less than 15 minutes using an electric drill or driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another great option. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and is a great purchase. It is an old-fashioned crib that can be converted into a toddler bed or daybed. The crib is also easy to assemble and has a low profile that makes it easy to reach into and out of for smaller parents.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery designs simple and simple. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be transformed as a full-size toddler bed or bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and employs eco-friendly manufacturing techniques. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used alongside the brand's mattresses that are free of toxic substances.
Budget
A quality crib will have a sturdy structure and straightforward assembly instructions that allow for an easy and painless installation. And a design that is compatible with your nursery decor is also important. Cribs are available in terms of price however, there are 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, a crib or toddler bed. It also has the ability to rock and roll to gently help your baby sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rods will encase your baby in the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can also serve as a portable play area and provides your child with a safe and comfortable spot to sleep when they are traveling.
Another option that doesn't compromise on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with eco-friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down through siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, including no drop-sides or decorative cutouts that could catch clothing. It is free of sharp or rough edges and is easily dressed with sheets.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more elegant design that is in keeping with the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter category of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This elegant model converts from a bassinet to an infant crib and then a full-size crib without the need for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent that isn't into fussiness, opt for the simpler and cleaner-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the pieces you'll need for your baby to develop into a toddler, however they have a more traditional style than other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.