Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you like. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your baby might get into, and select a design that can be easily 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 a crib that has a lot loose or missing pieces or is one that isn't up to the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of the crib should be spaced to stop children from getting their hands or heads in them and also they shouldn't contain any decorative cut outs or other embellishments which could cause injury risk. A mattress support system is vital to the crib's safety and must be capable of adjusting to various heights to accommodate your child as they grow.
Avoid hanging objects such as curtains or blinds since they could strangle your baby. It's a good idea examine your crib frequently for any missing or loose items, and replace any that are loosened over time.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be moved down. However it won't stay down for very long. These are ideal for parents who wish to co-sleep, but without the dangers of bed-sharing, but make certain that you're in an area free of windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're looking for a crib that is environmentally friendly, consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. You should also consider one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking for something even superior, select a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemical compounds.
Style
If you're going for a classic or minimalist nursery aesthetic, choosing an elegant crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim which makes it a perfect fit for tight spaces. try this comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our test participants, 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 crib is crafted from solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors to match any aesthetic. It's heavier than the other cribs we tested, but durable enough to last into 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 occupies more square footage in the nursery than some of our other top choices.
While a good option for small spaces, its distinctive design can be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also bulkier than our other picks and will have to be dismantled to fit through doorways that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are made of wood such as maple or oak. They can also be made of cherry, mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and can withstand scratches and dings better than soft pine. However, be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable since it's less expensive. This could make the crib more vulnerable to scratches and dent, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to a standard crib is that it often comes with a toddler rail which will help to keep your child safe from climbing and falling out. But keep in mind that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for extra security.
Convertibility
There are numerous things to consider when choosing a crib. You have to consider size, style and slat type and if it's convertible or not. It is crucial to choose a crib you like because it will be used by your baby for a long period of time. You should also select a crib that will fit to the decor of your home regardless of whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib is a fantastic option since it grows with your child until it becomes a toddler bed and then to a larger bed. This will save you money in the long run because you won't need to buy a mattress for your child.
There are numerous convertible cribs available However, some stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finishing. It also has three height settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it simple to get your baby in and out of the crib. The crib is also simple to assemble, taking less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another great alternative. This crib is a good value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into the toddler bed or daybed. It is also easy to assemble and has a low-profile that makes it easy to reach in 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 decor simple and tidy. This stylish crib can be transformed into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was built in Italy using eco-friendly production methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and made to be used in conjunction alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality must be built with strength and simple assembly instructions that allow for relatively frustration-free installation. A chic design that complements the decor of your nursery is essential. There are a variety of crib models that can be bought at various prices.
For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to rock your baby to slumber or create an easy slope for reflux babies. The added canopy and drape rod will encase your baby in a comfortable baby-like womb. It could also serve as a portable play yard, giving your child a comfortable and secure place to nap on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that doesn't sacrifice design. It combines a contemporary aesthetic with eco-friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is manufactured sustainably in Europe and can be passed down to children. It meets all CPSC standards and doesn't have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could snag clothing. It is free of rough or sharp edges, and can easily be dressed by sheets.
Some parents may want a minimal crib to complement their modern or contemporary home, while others might prefer a more formal style that complements the decor of the room. If your preference falls into the latter category you should consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant model converts from a bassinet into an infant crib and then a full-size crib without the need for bars or mattresses.
If you're a parent who doesn't like excessive fussiness, consider a crib that is less cluttered and more clean looking. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require for your baby to grow into an adult, but they have more of a traditional design than some models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.