Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you like. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your child could get into, and select an option that is able to be converted into a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
As parents are, we'd like to give our children the best possible start in life, and that begins with a safe crib. You don't need to use cribs that have lots of missing or loose pieces or is one that doesn't meet the current safety standards. If you're buying a new crib, be sure to look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is in compliance with the most stringent safety standards.
The slats in the crib must be spaced to prevent children from falling or catching their heads in them, and they shouldn't have any cut-outs for decorative purposes or other embellishments which could cause injury risk. The mattress support system, which is essential to the security of your crib, should be able to be adjusted to various levels so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.
It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains, since they pose a strangulation risk for your child. It is a good idea to inspect your crib on a regular basis for missing or loose objects, and replace any that have become dislodged over time.
Some cribs come with a side panel which can be removed. However it won't stay down for very long. These are useful for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but be certain that you're in an area free of windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.
If you are seeking an eco-friendly crib, select one constructed from sustainable forests. It's recommended to pick a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low chemical emissions. If you're looking to buy something superior, select a crib that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA, BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemicals.
Style
Whether you're working with a minimal or classic design, an elegant crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is a great choice for small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It is also GREENGUARD Certified and has the option of a lower-height mattress. One of our test participants, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the most beautiful cribs we've seen even in a sea of grey!"
The classic high-back crib for babies is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of contemporary colors that can be matched to any aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs that we've tried, but it's sturdy enough to make it through toddlerhood 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 may be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also a bit bulkier than our other choices and will probably require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard in order to move from room room.
Standard cribs are typically made of wood such as maple or oak. They are also made of cherry, mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and can withstand damage and nicks much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers choose pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib susceptible to damage and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to the standard crib is that it often comes with a toddler rail which will help to keep your child safe from falling off and climbing. But keep in mind that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail for added safety.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are many factors to consider. Take into consideration the size, style, slats and whether it's convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib that you like since it will be there for your baby for a long time. It is also important to choose a crib to fit in with the style of your home, regardless of whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib will expand with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, and then an adult size bed. This can 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. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it is in compliance with or exceeds the government safety standards for construction and finish. Additionally, it comes with three height settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it easy to get your baby out of the crib. It is also easy to build, taking less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a excellent option. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and is a great purchase. It has a classic design and can be converted to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. top ranked cribs is easy to assemble, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to get into and out.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for minimalists looking to keep their nursery simple and tidy. This stylish crib can be transformed into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was built in Italy with environmentally-friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxic substances.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality should have sturdy construction and straightforward assembly instructions that result in the installation process being relatively easy. And a design that fits with the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs vary in terms of cost, but there are models that will fit into any budget.
For instance, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be set up as a bassinet crib or a toddler bed. It also has the ability to rock and roll to gently rock your baby to sleep or create an easy incline for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rods envelop the baby in an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can also serve as a portable play area and provides your child with a safe and comfortable place to nap while on the move.
Another option that doesn't compromise on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines environmentally friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe and can be passed down to children. It meets all CPSC standards and has no drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could snag clothing. It has no rough or sharp edges and is easily dressed by sheets.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more elegant design that matches the interior decor of the room. If you fall into the latter group of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This beautiful model transforms from a bassinet into the size of a mini-crib, and then into a full-size crib, without the need for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent who isn't into fussiness, opt for the simpler and cleaner-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to assist your baby to grow 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.