Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major feature in your nursery for a long time so it's crucial to pick one you love looking at. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your little one could get into, and choose a design that is able to be converted into a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
As parents, we want to give our babies the best start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You shouldn't use cribs that have a lot loose or missing pieces, nor do you want one that isn't in line with 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 standards.
The slats of a crib should be tightly spaced so that children aren't catching their fingers or head in the slats, and they shouldn't have any cut-outs for decorative purposes or other embellishments which could cause injury risk. A mattress support system is crucial to the safety of the crib and must be adjustable to different heights to accommodate your child as they develop.
Avoid hanging items like curtains or blinds because they could strangle your child. Examine your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if needed.
Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be lowered. However it won't stay down for long. These are useful for parents who want to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but make certain that you're in a room that is away from windows and radiators and that your baby isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you are looking for an environmentally friendly crib, pick one that is constructed from sustainable forests. It's important to pick a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go a step further, look for a crib that's made from sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to design an elegant or classic nursery, a chic crib is a fantastic option. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek and is a great option for spaces that are tight. 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 most attractive cribs we've seen, even in a sea grey!"
The classic high-back crib for babies is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of modern colors that match any style. It's a bit heavier than other cribs that we've examined, but it's strong enough to make it through toddlerhood 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 other top choices.
It's a good choice for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also bulkier than our other choices and will need to be disassembled in order to pass through doors that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed of wood, such as maple or oak, ash, mahogany, cherry or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and resist nicks and dings much 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 could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling out or climbing. Remember that a lot of cribs for toddlers require you to buy an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are numerous factors to consider. It is important to think about the size, style, and slat type and if it's convertible or not. It is crucial to choose the crib you love because it will be with your child for a long period of time. You should also choose the crib that is compatible with the style of your home, regardless of whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib is a great option since it grows with your child to a toddler bed, and later into a full-size bed. This will save you money in the end because you won't have to purchase a mattress for your child.
There are numerous convertible cribs available however, some stand out more than others. One of them is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finishing. It also comes with three mattress settings that can be adjusted and a low-profile that allows you to easily get your child in and out of it. This crib is also relatively simple to assemble and can be assembled in less than 15 minutes using the use of a cordless drill/driver.
Another option that is worth considering is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and a great deal. It's a classic style and can be transformed into a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. This crib is also simple to put together and has a low profile that makes it easy to reach to and out of for short parents.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their bedroom simple and clean. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be transformed to become a full-size toddler bed or bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy with environmentally-friendly production methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and is specifically designed to work together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.
Budget
A quality crib will have a sturdy structure and easy assembly instructions that result in relatively frustration-free installation. A chic design that is in line with your nursery decor is important. There are a variety of crib models that can be purchased at different prices.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, is one of the most versatile options that are available. It can be used as a bassinet or crib or as a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for reflux babies. The drape rod and canopy envelop your baby in a cozy like a womb. Best cot for newborn can also serve as a portable play space that provides your child with a secure and comfortable space to rest when they are on the move.
Another option that doesn't compromise on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with eco-friendly materials. The solid wood and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down through siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, which include no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts that could catch clothing. It is easy to dress using sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib that matches their contemporary or modern home. Others may prefer a more elegant style that is in keeping with the interior decor of the room. If you're in the latter group of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This stylish model can be converted from a bassinet to the size of a mini-crib, and then into a full-size crib with no need for bars or mattresses.
If you're a parent who's not 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 components you require to help your baby grow into a toddler. They do however have a more traditional look compared to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.