Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you love. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs that have cutouts and drop-sides as your child might fall in. Instead, pick an option that can easily be converted into a daybed or toddler.
Safety
We want to give our children the best start in life. This begins with a crib that's safe. You don't want to use an old crib that may contain a number of loose or damaged parts, and you shouldn't buy one that's not up to current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, be sure to look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is up to the highest safety standards.
The slats that comprise the crib should be spaced to prevent children from getting their hands or heads in the slats and should not have any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could pose an injury risk. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the safety of your crib must be adjustable to various heights so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.
Avoid hanging objects such as curtains or blinds as they can strangle your baby. It is a good idea to check your crib regularly for missing or loose objects, and replace any that have become dislodged in the course of time.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be lifted, but it won't stay in place for long. These are great for parents who do not want to share with their children. Just make sure you keep your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're looking for a crib which is environmentally friendly, consider one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. It's important to select a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to go further, look for a crib made of sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
If you're going for an elegant or minimalist style for your nursery, choosing an attractive crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 fits well in tiny spaces since it's slim and sleek. It is also GREENGUARD Certified and has a lower height mattress setting. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib was "up there with the most attractive cribs we've ever seen, even in a sea grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of modern colors that will match any style. It's heavier than other cribs that we tested, but durable enough to last until 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 more space in the nursery as compared to our other top picks.
While a good option for small spaces, its unique design can be difficult to find bedding and sheets for. It's also more bulkier than our other picks and will require to be dismantled to fit through doorways 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 from mahogany, birch or cherry. They are typically more long-lasting than other materials, and are resistant to damage better than soft pine. However, be aware that some manufacturers use pine instead of the more durable hardwoods since it's less expensive. This could make a crib more vulnerable to dents 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. Remember that a lot of cribs for toddlers will require you to purchase an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are numerous aspects to take into consideration. You have to consider size, style and slat style, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It is essential to choose a crib that you love, as it will be with your baby for a long period of time. You should also select a crib that will fit to the decor of your home, whether that be traditional or contemporary.
A convertible crib is a fantastic choice because it will grow with your child to a toddler bed and then into 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.
Some convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified that means it meets or exceeds government safety standards in the construction and finish. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings as well as 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 with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
Another option is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and a great buy. It is a classic crib that could be converted into the toddler bed or daybed. Mini Cot Bed 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 perfect for minimalists looking to keep their nursery simple and clean. This stylish crib can be transformed into a full-size or toddler 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 in conjunction with the brand's toxic free mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy construction, and simple assembly instructions. This will make the installation relatively easy. And a design that is compatible with the decor of your nursery is important. There are many different models of cribs that can be purchased at different costs.
For example, 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 gently rock your baby to slumber or create a gentle slope for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rod add-ons will encase your baby in a cozy, womb-like atmosphere. It can also serve as a portable play area and provides your child with a secure and comfortable space to rest while moving around.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice design. It combines a contemporary style with eco-friendly materials. The solid wood crib of birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is manufactured sustainably in Europe and is able to be passed on to siblings. It meets all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could scratch clothing. It is easy to dress using sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents may want a minimalist crib to match their modern or contemporary home, while others might prefer a more formal style that suits the room's decor. If you fall into the latter group of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. The elegantly designed model can be converted from bassinet to an infant crib, and then to a full-sized crib, all without 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 simpler and cleaner looking. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the pieces you'll need to allow your baby to grow into a toddler, however they're more of a traditional look than some other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.