Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you love. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts and drop-sides, as your child may fall into. Instead, choose an option that can easily be converted to a daybed or toddler.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This begins with a crib that's safe. You shouldn't use an old crib that might contain a number of loose or missing parts, and you definitely do not want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The crib's slats should be positioned so that children cannot catch their fingers or heads in the slats. They should not contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other decorations that could cause injury. A mattress support system is also essential to ensure the safety of your crib and must be capable of adjusting to various heights to accommodate your baby as they develop.
It is also recommended to avoid dangling objects such as blind strings or curtains since they pose an opportunity for strangulation for your baby. Examine your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be removed. However, it will not stay down for very long. These are great for parents who don't want to share the bed. Be sure to place your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you're looking for a crib which is green, you should consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's recommended to select a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to go a step further, you should look for a crib that is made from sustainable sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
If you're planning to work with a minimal or classic design, a stylish crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is a great choice for smaller spaces due to its slim and sleek. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, claimed that the crib was "up there with the best-looking cribs we've seen, even among sea grey!"
This classic high-back crib is made using solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors to fit any style. It's heavier than other cribs 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 square footage in the nursery than some of our other top choices.
While it's a great option for smaller spaces, its unique design may be difficult to find bedding and sheets for. It's also a bit heavier than our other options and may need to be disassembled to fit through standard doors when you move from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, including maple or oak, ash, mahogany, cherry or birch. They tend to be longer-lasting than other materials and can withstand scratches and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers select pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This could make the crib more prone to scratches and dent, which could require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of the standard crib is that it typically includes a toddler rail, which will help to keep your child safe from climbing and falling out. Remember that a lot of cribs for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to selecting a crib, there are numerous factors to consider. Consider the size, style, slats and whether it's convertible. It is essential to choose the crib you love, as it will be a part of your baby for a long period of time. You should also select a crib that is a good fit in with the decor of your home regardless of whether it's traditional or contemporary.
A convertible crib will grow with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, and eventually to a full-size bed. This will save you money in the long run because you won't have to purchase a mattress for your child.
Some convertible cribs stand out more than others. One of them is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it is in compliance with or exceeds the government safety standards for construction and finishing. In addition, it has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and a low profile that makes it simple to get your baby out of the crib. It is easy to assemble this crib and takes less than 15 minutes using a cordless driver/drill.
Another option is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great buy. It is a classic crib that can be transformed into the toddler bed or daybed. The crib is simple to put together, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to move in and out.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their room simple and clean. This stylish crib can be transformed into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's toxic free mattresses.
Budget
A good crib will have a sturdy structure and simple assembly instructions that lead to the installation process being relatively easy. A stylish design that matches your nursery decor is important. Cribs can run the gamut in terms of cost however there are some models that suit every 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 can also roll and rock to gently help your baby sleep or create a gentle incline for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rods envelop the baby in a cozy, womb-like atmosphere. It can also be used as a portable play space and provides your child with a safe and comfortable space to rest while on the move.
Another option that doesn't sacrifice on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design 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 is compliant with all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could scratch clothing. It is easy to dress using sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to match their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more elegant design that matches the decor of the room. If you fall in the latter category look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful model transforms from a bassinet into the size of a mini-crib, and then into a full-size crib without the requirement for mattresses or bars.
If you are an adult who doesn't enjoy the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is more simple and clean in appearance. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to aid your baby's development into a toddler. However, infant cot bed Cots 4 Tots have more of a traditional style compared to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.