Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you like. It will be part of your nursery for many years. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your little one could get into, and select a design that is able to be converted to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This starts with a crib that's safe. It's not necessary to have cribs that have a lot loose or missing pieces, nor do you want one that doesn't meet the current safety standards. When buying a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats that comprise the crib should be spaced to stop children from falling or catching their heads in the slats and also they shouldn't contain any cut-outs for decorative purposes or other embellishments which could cause injury risk. The mattress support system, which is vital to the safety of your crib should be adjustable to different levels so that it can grow with your child.
It is also recommended to avoid hanging objects like blind strings or curtains, because they pose a strangulation risk for your child. It is a good idea to check your crib regularly for loose or missing items, and replace them if they are missing or that are loosened over time.
Some cribs have a side panel which can be removed. However, it will not stay down for very long. These are great for parents who don't want to share with their children. Just make sure you put your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you're looking for a crib that is green, you should consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. You should also choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. recommended cribs means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go more, consider a crib that's made from sustainable sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
If you're looking to create an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib is a fantastic addition. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek, making it a good fit for tight spaces. It's GREENGUARD Certified and has the option of a lower-height mattress. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, claimed that the crib was "up among the most beautiful cribs we've ever seen, even among a sea grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety modern colors that match any style. It's heavier than the other cribs that we test, but it's durable enough to last through the age of toddler 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 when compared to our other top picks.
While a good option for small spaces, its unique design can be challenging to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also a bit heavier than some of our other picks, and it will likely need to be disassembled to fit through standard doors in order to move from room room.
Standard cribs are typically constructed of wood like oak or maple. They can also be made from mahogany, birch or cherry. They are typically more long-lasting than other materials and can withstand damage better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over hardwoods that are more durable to save money. This could make a crib more vulnerable to dents and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling or climbing. However, be aware that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for added security.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are a lot of things to consider. It is important to think about the size, style and slat style, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It's crucial to choose the crib you love since it will be there for your baby for a long time. You also want to choose the crib that fits in with the decor of your home regardless of whether it's traditional or contemporary.
A convertible crib is a fantastic choice because it will grow with your child until it becomes a toddler bed, and later to a larger bed. This will save you money in the long run because you don't have to buy an additional bed for your child.
There are many different convertible cribs on the market however, some stand out better than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finishing. It also has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and a low profile that makes it easy to move your baby in and out of the crib. It is simple to put together this crib in less than 15 minutes with a cordless driver/drill.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is also a good alternative. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and is a great purchase. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into a toddler bed or daybed. This crib is easy to put together and its low profile makes it easy for parents to move into and out.
The final crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for minimalists looking to keep their bedroom simple and clean. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be made into an adult bed or a full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and employs eco-friendly manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and 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 result in the installation process being relatively easy. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is essential. 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 versatile options that are available. It can be used as a bassinet crib, or a toddler bed. It can also rock and roll to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy incline for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rods provide the baby with an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can also serve as a portable play space and provides your child with a secure and comfortable spot to sleep when on the move.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another alternative that doesn't sacrifice style. It blends a modern design with sustainable materials. The solid wood crib of birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe and can be passed down to siblings. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and doesn't have drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could catch clothing. It has no rough or sharp edges, and is easily dressed by sheets.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Others may prefer a more refined design that is in keeping with the decor of the room. If you fall in the latter category look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This stylish model can be converted from a bassinet to a mini-crib and then a full-size crib, without the need for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent who's not interested in fussiness, go 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. However, they have more of a traditional style compared to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.