Choosing the Best Crib
A crib is a crucial element in your nursery for many years and it's essential to pick one you love admiring. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your little one might get into, and choose an option that is able to be converted into a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best start in life. This begins with a crib that's safe. You shouldn't use cribs that have many missing or loose pieces or is one that isn't up to current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats that comprise the crib should be spaced to prevent children from getting their hands or heads in them, and they shouldn't have any cut-outs for decorative purposes or other decorations that could pose an injury risk. A mattress support system is crucial to the safety of the crib and should be able to adjust to different sizes to accommodate your child as they grow.
Avoid hanging objects such as curtains or blinds, because they could strangle your baby. Be sure to check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if necessary.
Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be lowered. However, it will not stay down for long. These are useful for parents who want to co-sleep, but without the dangers of bed-sharing, but be sure that you're positioned in an area that is away from windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you are seeking a green crib, select one made of wood from sustainable forests. cot sets should also choose one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you're looking for something superior, select a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates, and other chemicals.
Style
No matter if you want to design a classic or minimalist nursery, a chic crib is a fantastic option. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek, making it a good option for spaces that are tight. It's also GREENGUARD Certified and has a lower height mattress setting. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most attractive cribs we've seen even in the midst of grey!"
The classic high-back crib for babies is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs that we tested, but durable enough to last into the age of toddler 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 as compared to our other top picks.
It's a great choice for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also a bit bulkier than some of our other choices and will probably require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard when moving from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, like maple or oak, ash, mahogany, cherry or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and they resist damage and nicks much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This could make a crib more vulnerable to dents and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling out or climbing. Keep in mind, however, that many cribs designed for toddlers require the purchase of an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to selecting a crib, there are numerous aspects to take into consideration. You have to consider the size, style, and slat type and if it's convertible or not. It is crucial to choose a crib that you love, as it will be a part of your baby for a long period of time. It is also important to select a crib that will fit in with the decor of your home, whether that be modern or traditional.
A convertible crib will grow with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, then an adult size bed. This will save money over time because you won't have to buy an additional bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finish. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings and a low profile that allows you to easily get your child in and out of it. It's easy to put together this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes to assemble using the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another excellent alternative. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is an old-fashioned crib that can be converted into an infant bed or a daybed. This crib is easy to assemble, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to move in and out.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their nursery simple and tidy. This stylish crib can be converted into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing 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 construction, and simple assembly instructions. This will make the process effortless. And a design that fits with the decor of your nursery is important. There are a variety of crib models that can be bought at various prices.
For instance, the highly rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet or crib or a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently rock your baby to slumber or create a gentle slope for babies who are reflux. The add-on canopy and drape rod will encase your child in a warm baby-like womb. great crib can even double as a play yard that can be carried around, giving your child a comfortable and secure place to nap on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that doesn't sacrifice style. It combines a contemporary style with eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts which could catch clothing. It is easy to dress using sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to complement their contemporary or modern home. Others might prefer a more elegant design that is in keeping with the interior decor of the room. If you're in the latter category of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. This stylish model can be converted from a bassinet to a mini-crib and then a full-size crib with no need for bars or mattresses.
If you're a parent who isn't in the mood for fussiness, choose the less cluttered and more elegant cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to help your baby grow into an adult. They do however have more of a traditional style in comparison to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.