Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major feature in your nursery for many years and it's essential to pick a crib that you love looking at. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides, as your child might fall in. Instead, choose an option that is easily converted into a toddler or daybed.
Safety
As parents, we want to give our children the best start in life, and that starts with a safe crib. You shouldn't use a crib that has lots of missing or loose pieces and you shouldn't choose one that isn't in line with current safety standards. When buying a crib, make sure it has the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats in the crib must be spaced so that children aren't catching their fingers or head in the slats and should not have any decorative cut outs or other embellishments that could create a risk. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the safety of your crib must be adjustable to various levels so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.
Avoid hanging items like curtains or blinds as they can strangle your child. It is a good idea to inspect your crib on a regular basis for any missing or loose objects, and replace any that are loosened over time.
Some cribs have a side panel that can be removed. However, it will not stay down for very long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share the bed. Be sure to put your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're looking for a crib which is environmentally friendly, consider one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed the tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you want to go even further, you should look for a crib that is made from sustainably sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
If you're looking to design a classic or minimalist nursery, a chic crib is a fantastic addition. The SnuzPod4 can be used in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It is also 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 a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs that we've tested, but it's durable enough to get 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 space in the nursery than our other top picks.
cot bed sales 's a great option for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also heavier than our other options and will probably require dismantling in order to fit through standard doors in order to move from room the next.
Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, such as maple or oak. They can also be made from mahogany, birch or cherry. They are generally longer-lasting than other materials, and are resistant to damage 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 a crib more susceptible to scratches and dents and could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling or climbing. Keep in mind, however, that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are many factors to consider. Consider the size, style, slats and whether it's convertible. It is essential to pick a crib that you like since it will be with your baby for a long time. It is also important to choose the crib that will go with the decor of your home, no matter if it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib will expand with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, and then an adult size bed. This will save you money over time because you won't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
Certain convertible cribs stand out more than other. One of them is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold certified that means it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for design and construction. In addition, it has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and a low profile that makes it simple to get your baby out and in of the crib. It is simple to put together this crib and takes less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a good option. This crib is a great value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is an old-fashioned crib that can be transformed into an infant bed or a daybed. The crib is simple to assemble, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to get into and out.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists looking to keep their nursery decor simple and clean. It's a stylish, affordable crib that can be transformed to become a full-size toddler bed or bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. This crib was built 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 good crib will have a sturdy structure and easy assembly instructions that allow for an easy and painless installation. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are numerous cribs available to be purchased at different costs.
For instance, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most adaptable options on the market. It can be set up as a bassinet, a crib or a toddler bed and can also rock and roll to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle incline for reflux babies. The added canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a comfortable baby-like womb. It can also serve as a portable play space and provides your child with a secure and comfortable place to nap when traveling.
Another option that doesn't skimp on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, which include no drop-sides or decorative cutouts that could catch clothing. It is easy to dress using sheets and does not have sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to match their contemporary or modern home. Others might prefer a more refined design that is in keeping with the décor of the room. If your preference falls into the latter category, consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful model transforms 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 the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is more simple and clean looking. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to help your baby grow into a toddler. They do however have an older-style look when as compared to other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.