Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you love. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides, as your child may fall into. Instead, opt for an option that is easily converted into a daybed or toddler.
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 a crib that has many missing or loose pieces and you shouldn't choose one that isn't in line with current safety standards. When buying a crib, make sure it has the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats that comprise the crib must be spaced so that children aren't getting their hands or heads in them, and they shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could create a risk. A mattress support system is also vital to the crib's safety and should be capable of adjusting to various heights to accommodate your child as they develop.
It is also important to stay clear of dangling objects such as blind strings or curtains, since they pose an opportunity for strangulation for your baby. It's a good idea to check your crib regularly for any missing or loose objects, and replace any that are loosened over time.
Some cribs have a side panel that can be lifted but it won't be in place for long. They are ideal for parents who do not want to share the bed. Make sure to put your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're looking for a crib that is eco-friendly, think about one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. It's also a good idea to select a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed a test for low emissions of chemicals. If you want to go further, look for a crib made of 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 classic or minimalist design, an elegant crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim which makes it a perfect choice for small spaces. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. best cot newborn of our test subjects, 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 has been constructed from solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a range of contemporary colors to fit any style. It's heavier than other cribs that we've tested, but it's durable enough to last 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.
It's a great option for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also bulkier than the other options and will require to be dismantled to fit through doorways that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, such as maple, oak, ash, mahogany, cherry or birch. They are more durable 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 can make a crib more susceptible to damage and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling out or climbing. Keep in mind that some cribs specifically designed for toddlers require you to buy an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When you are deciding on a crib, there are a lot of things to consider. You must consider the size, style and slat type, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It is essential to pick the crib you love since it will be used by your baby for many years. You should also pick the crib that is compatible with the decor of your home, regardless of whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib can grow with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, and eventually 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.
There are many different convertible cribs available however, some stand out more than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold certified which means it is in compliance with or exceeds government safety standards in design and construction. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings and a low-profile design that makes it easier to take your child into and out of it. It's easy to put together this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes using an electric drill or driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another good option. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic design and can be made into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed by the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is simple to assemble, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to move in and out.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for those who want to keep their bedroom simple and clean. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be outfitted to become a full-size toddler bed or bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was made 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 must be built with strength and straightforward assembly instructions that result in the installation process being relatively easy. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are numerous cribs available to be purchased at different costs.
For instance, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most adaptable options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet crib or a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rods envelop the baby in the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can even double as a portable play area providing 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 combines a modern aesthetic with environmentally friendly materials. The solid wood and Baltic birch plywood crib is sustainably made in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down through siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, which include no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides which could catch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents may want an uncluttered crib that complements their contemporary or modern home, while others may prefer a more formal style that is suited to the room's decor. If you're in the latter group of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a fantastic choice. This elegant model converts from a bassinet into the size of a mini-crib, and then into a full-size crib, without the need for bars or mattresses.
If you're a parent that isn't into fussiness, opt for the less cluttered and more elegant cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require to allow your baby to grow into an adult, but they have a more traditional look than some other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.