Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key fixture in your nursery for a long time and it's essential to choose a crib you enjoy admiring. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your child could get into, and select one that is easily convertible to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This begins with a crib that is safe. It's not necessary to have an infant crib with lots of missing or loose pieces or is one that isn't up to the current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it is in compliance with the most stringent safety standards.
The slats in the crib should be spaced so that children aren't catching their fingers or head in the slats and also they shouldn't contain any decorative cut outs or other embellishments which could cause injury risk. A mattress support system is crucial to the safety of the crib and should be capable of adjusting to various sizes to accommodate your child as they develop.
Avoid dangling items such as curtains or blinds, since they could strangle your child. It's a good idea check your crib regularly for any missing or loose objects, 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. They are great for parents who wish to sleep with their children without the dangers of bed-sharing, but be sure that you're positioned in a room away from radiators and windows and that your baby isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.
If you are looking for an environmentally friendly crib, choose one made of sustainable forests. It's recommended to select a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low emissions of chemicals. If cot sets looking for something even more durable, consider a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA chemical compounds, BPA-based chemicals phthalates, and other chemicals.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to design a classic or minimalist nursery, a chic crib will be a great addition. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim, making it a good option for spaces that are tight. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our test subjects, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the best-looking ones we've seen, even in the midst of grey!"
This classic high-back crib is crafted with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a range of contemporary colors to match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs that we evaluated, but is sturdy enough to last until 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 our other top choices.
It's a great option for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also bulkier than the other options and will have to be dismantled to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, including maple or oak, ash, mahogany, cherry, or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and they resist damage and nicks much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers choose pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This could make a crib more susceptible to scratches and dents and could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling out or climbing. Be aware that a lot of cribs for toddlers require the purchase of an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are a lot of things to think about when choosing the right crib. Consider the size, style, slats, and if it's convertible. It is essential to choose a crib that you love, as it will be used by your baby for a long time. It is also important to choose the crib that is compatible with the decor of your home, whether it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib is a fantastic option since it grows with your child until it becomes an infant bed, and eventually 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.
Certain convertible cribs stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finishing. It also has three adjustable mattress settings as well as a low profile that allows you to easily take your child into and out of it. It is simple to put together this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes with an electric drill or driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another good option. This crib is a great value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic crib that could be converted into a toddler bed or daybed. The crib is simple to put together and its low profile makes it easier for parents to get in and out.
The final crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery designs simple and tidy. This stylish crib can be transformed into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy using eco-friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used alongside the brand's toxic free mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy structure and simple assembly instructions. This will make the process effortless. A stylish design that fits with the decor of your nursery is important. There are numerous crib models that can be bought at various prices.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options that are available. It can be used as a bassinet crib, or a toddler bed and can also rock and roll to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy incline for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rods provide the baby with the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can also double as a play yard that can be carried around, giving your child a comfortable and secure place to nap on the go.
Another option that doesn't compromise on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe and can be passed on to siblings. It meets all CPSC standards and doesn't have drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could scratch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and does not have sharp edges.
Some parents might want an uncluttered crib that complements their contemporary or modern home, whereas others may prefer a more formal style that complements the decor of the room. If you're in the latter category of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a fantastic choice. This elegant model converts from a bassinet to a mini-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 simpler and cleaner in appearance. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require to help your baby grow into a toddler, however they have a more traditional look than some other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.