Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you love. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts and drop-sides as your child might fall in. Instead, pick a design which is easily converted into a toddler 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 shouldn't use an infant crib with a lot loose or missing pieces and you shouldn't choose one that isn't up to current safety standards. If you're buying a brand new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it meets the most important safety requirements.
The slats on a crib should be positioned so that children cannot catch their fingers or heads in the slats. They shouldn't contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other ornaments that could result in injury. A mattress support system is also crucial to the safety of the crib and should be able to adjust to different heights to accommodate your baby as they grow.
It is also recommended to avoid hanging objects like blind strings or curtains, as these present an opportunity for strangulation for your child. Be sure to check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs come with the option of a side panel that could be lifted 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 sure you're in an area free of windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're seeking a crib that is green, you should consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure that there are no emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to buy something better, choose a crib made of sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates, and other chemicals.
Style
Whether you're working with an elegant or minimalist nursery aesthetic, choosing an attractive crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 can be used in smaller spaces due to its slim and sleek. great crib 's also GREENGUARD Certified and comes with a lower height mattress setting. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib was "up among the most beautiful cribs we've ever seen, even among a sea grey!"
The classic high-back crib for babies is made from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a range of modern colors that will match any style. It's a bit heavier than the 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 takes up more space in the nursery compared to our other top choices.
It's a good choice for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also heavier than our other picks and will need to be dismantled to pass through doors that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically constructed of wood like maple or oak. They can also be made of mahogany, cherry, birch or cherry. They are generally longer-lasting than other materials, and are resistant to nicks and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib more susceptible to scratches and dents and could require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of a standard crib is that it typically comes with a toddler rail which will help to keep your child safe from falling down and climbing. However, be aware that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for added security.
Convertibility
There are many aspects to take into consideration when selecting the right crib. You have to consider the size, style and slat type and if it's convertible or not. It's important to find a crib you like, as it will be a part of your baby for a long period of time. It is also important to choose a crib to fit in with the style of your home, whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib is an excellent option since it grows with your child to a toddler bed, and later into a full-size bed. This can save you money in the long run since you don't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs on the market however, some stand out better than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified that means it meets or exceeds government safety standards in the construction and finish. It also has three height settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it simple to get your baby out of the crib. It is also easy to build, taking less than 15 minutes using a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a excellent alternative. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and a great deal. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into a toddler bed or daybed. The crib is also easy to assemble and has a low-profile that allows it to be easily reached to and out of for smaller parents.
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 tidy. This stylish crib can be made into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing techniques. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and is made to be used in conjunction alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A quality crib is one that has a solid construction and simple assembly instructions. This will make the installation relatively effortless. A chic design that complements the decor of your nursery is essential. Cribs can run the gamut in terms of cost however there are some models that suit every budget.
For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet crib, or a toddler bed. It can also roll and rock to gently help your baby sleep or create an easy incline for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rod add-ons will encase your baby in a cozy, womb-like atmosphere. It can even double as a portable play area and provide your child with a comfortable and secure place to rest on the go.
Another option that doesn't sacrifice on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines environmentally friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is made sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and does not have sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib that matches their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more refined design that matches the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter group of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a fantastic choice. The elegantly designed model can be converted from a bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full-sized crib, all without adding mattresses or bars, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you are a parent who doesn't like the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is more simple and clean visually. 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. They do however have an older-style look when in comparison to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.