Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you like. It will be in your nursery for many years. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your baby might get into, and choose an option that can be easily converted into a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This begins with a crib that's safe. You don't want to use an old crib that might contain a number of loose or broken parts, and you certainly do not want one that isn't up to current safety standards. If you're buying a brand new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it meets the most important safety standards.
The slats on a crib must be closely spaced to ensure that children don't get their heads or fingers within them. They shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could result in injuries. A mattress support system is also essential to ensure the safety of your crib and should be adjustable to different sizes to accommodate your child as they develop.
You'll also want to avoid hanging objects like blind strings or curtains because they pose a strangulation risk for your child. Check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if necessary.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be moved down. However, it will not stay down for 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 child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you are seeking an eco-friendly crib, select one made of sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure that there are no emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to buy something superior, select a crib made of sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemicals.
Style
Whether you're working with an elegant or minimalist design, an elegant crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek which makes it a perfect choice for small spaces. It also has a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, claimed that the crib was "up among the most beautiful cribs we've ever seen, even in a sea 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 aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs that we've tested, but it's durable enough to make it 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 more space in the nursery when compared to some of our other top choices.
While it's a great option for smaller spaces, its unique design can be challenging to find bedding and sheets for. It's also a bit bulkier than our other choices and will probably need to be disassembled to fit through standard doors when you move from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, such as oak or maple. They can also be made of cherry, mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are typically more durable than other materials and resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. However, be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of the more durable hardwoods because it's less expensive. This can make a crib susceptible to damage and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of a standard crib is that it usually includes a toddler rail, which can ensure your child's safety from falling off and climbing. However, be aware that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for added security.
Convertibility
There are a lot of aspects to take into consideration when selecting a crib. You must consider the size, style and slat style and whether it's convertible or not. It is crucial to choose the crib you love since it will be used by your baby for a long time. You should also choose the crib that is compatible with the style of your home, regardless of whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib will grow with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, and eventually to a full-size bed. This can save you money over time because you won't have to buy an additional bed for your child.
There are numerous convertible cribs on the market However, certain models stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It is GREENGUARD gold certified which means it meets or surpasses the safety standards of the government in terms of design and construction. In addition, it has three adjustable mattress height settings and a low profile that makes it simple to get your baby in and out of the crib. It is simple to put together this crib and takes less than 15 minutes to assemble using a cordless driver/drill.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a good alternative. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and is a great purchase. crib sets is an old-fashioned crib that can be transformed into a toddler bed or daybed. The crib 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 final 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 to become a full-size toddler bed or bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly manufacturing methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and is made to be used in conjunction alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A quality crib will have a sturdy structure and straightforward assembly instructions that result in relatively frustration-free installation. And a design that matches your nursery decor is also essential. Cribs are available in terms of price, but there are models that are suitable for every budget.
For instance, the highly rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be set up as a bassinet crib or toddler bed. It can also roll and rock to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle incline for babies who have reflux. The canopy and drape rods provide the baby with a cozy, womb-like atmosphere. It can even double as a portable play area providing your child with an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to sleep on the move.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice style. It combines a modern design with sustainable materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is sustainably made in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, which include no drop-sides or decorative cutouts that could snag clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges and is easily dressed by sheets.
Some parents might want a minimalist crib to match their modern or contemporary home, while others may prefer a more formal style that complements the decor of the room. If your preference falls in the latter category you should consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This stylish model can be converted from a bassinet to an infant crib and then a full-size crib with no requirement for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent who isn't in the mood for fussiness, choose the more simple and clean-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the components you require to assist your baby to grow into an adult. However, they sport a more traditional look compared to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.