Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you like. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your child might get into, and choose one that is able to be converted into 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. You shouldn't use an old crib that might contain a number of loose or broken parts, and you certainly do not want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of a crib should be spaced evenly so that children cannot catch their fingers or heads in them. They shouldn't contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other decorations that could cause injury. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the security of your crib, should be adjustable to different levels so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.
Avoid dangling items such as blind strings or curtains, since they could strangle your baby. Check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if necessary.
Some cribs have a side panel that can be removed. However it won't stay down for very long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share the bed. Make sure to put your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you are seeking an eco-friendly crib, choose one made of wood from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking for something even superior, select a crib made of sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA, BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemicals.
Style
If you're looking to design an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib can be a wonderful addition. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim and is a great choice for small spaces. It also has 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 some of the most beautiful cribs we've seen, even in the midst of grey!"
This classic high-back crib is made from solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a range of contemporary colors that will match any style. It's heavier than the other cribs we've examined, but it's strong enough to make it 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 takes up more space in the nursery than some of our other top cribs.
It's a good choice for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also a bit heavier than some of our other picks, and it will likely require dismantling to fit through standard doors in order to move from room the next.
Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, such as maple, oak, ash, mahogany, cherry, or birch. They tend to be more long-lasting than other materials and resist damage better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that some manufacturers use pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable since it's less expensive. This could make a crib more susceptible to damage and scratches, which may require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to keep your child from falling or climbing. Be aware that a lot of cribs specifically designed for toddlers require you to purchase 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 whether it's convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib that you love, as it will be used by your baby for a long period of time. You should also pick a crib to fit in with the style of your home, regardless of whether it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib is a fantastic choice because it will grow with your child into an infant bed, and eventually into a full-size bed. This can save you money in the long run because you don't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified which means it meets or surpasses federal safety standards for construction and finish. In addition, it has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and an extremely low profile, making it easy to get your baby out and in of the crib. It is also easy to put together and can be assembled in less than 15 minutes with an electric drill or driver.
Another good option is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great deal. It is a classic crib that could be converted into an infant bed or a daybed. The crib is also easy to put together and has a low profile that allows it to be easily reached into and out of for smaller parents.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists looking to keep their nursery designs simple and tidy. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be transformed as a toddler bed or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy with 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 allow for the installation process being relatively easy. A stylish design that matches your nursery decor is important. There are many different models of cribs that can be purchased at different costs.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most versatile options on the market. It can be set up as a bassinet, crib or a toddler bed. her comment is here has the ability to roll and rock to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rods provide the baby with the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can even double as a play yard that can be carried around, giving your child a comfortable and secure place to rest on the go.
Another option that doesn't sacrifice on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with sustainable materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down through siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts that could snag clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges and can easily be dressed with sheets.
Some parents might prefer a minimalist crib to match their modern or contemporary home, while others may prefer a more stately design that complements the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. The elegantly designed model can be converted from a bassinet to an infant crib, and then to a full-sized crib, all without bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you are a parent who doesn't like fussiness, choose a crib that is less cluttered and more clean in appearance. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the parts you need to allow your baby to develop into a toddler, but they have a more traditional style than other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.