Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you like. It will be in your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs that have cutouts and drop-sides, as your child may fall into. Instead, choose an option that can easily be transformed into a daybed or toddler.
Safety
As parents are, we'd like to give our babies the best start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You don't want an old crib that might have a lot of loose or missing parts, and you definitely shouldn't buy one that's not conforming to the current safety standards. If you're buying a new crib, be sure to look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it is in compliance with the most stringent safety requirements.
The slats on a crib must be closely spaced to ensure that children don't get their heads or fingers within the slats. They should also not have any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could cause injuries. The mattress support system, which is vital to the security of your crib, should be adjustable to different levels so that it can grow with your child.
It is also important to stay clear of dangling objects such as curtains or blind strings, since they pose the risk of strangulation to your child. It's a good idea to inspect your crib on a regular basis for missing or loose objects, and replace any that have gotten lost in the course of time.
Some cribs come with an additional side panel that can be lowered, but it won't stay down for very long. These are ideal for parents who want to co-sleep, but without the dangers of bed-sharing, but make sure that you're positioned in an area that is away from windows and radiators and that your baby isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're looking for a crib which is green, you should consider one made from wood from sustainable forests. You should also choose a crib that has been 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 that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA chemical compounds, BPA-based chemicals phthalates, and other chemicals.
Style
If you're looking to design an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib will be a great addition. The SnuzPod4 fits well in smaller spaces due to its slim and sleek. It's 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 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 contemporary colors that can be matched to any aesthetic. It's heavier than the other cribs that we tested, but durable enough to last through 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 when compared to our other top choices.
While a good option for small spaces, its unique design can be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also bulkier than our other picks and will need to be disassembled to fit through doorways that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are usually made from wood, like maple or oak, ash, cherry, mahogany, or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and resist nicks and dings much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers choose pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This can make the crib more susceptible to dent and scratches, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of the standard crib is that it usually comes with a toddler rail which can ensure your child's safety from falling off and climbing. But keep in mind that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail to ensure safety.
Convertibility
There are many things to think about when choosing the right crib. Consider the size, style, slats, and whether it is convertible. It is crucial to choose the crib you love since it will be there for your baby for a long time. You also want to choose a crib that is a good fit into your home's decor whether it's traditional or contemporary.
A convertible crib is a great option since it grows with your child into a toddler bed and then a full-size bed. This will save you money over the long term because you won't need to purchase a mattress for your child.
Certain convertible cribs stand out more than other. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. 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 as well as a low profile that allows you to easily take your child into and out of it. This crib is also relatively simple to assemble in less than 15 minutes using an electric drill or driver.
Another option that is worth considering is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great deal. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into the toddler bed or daybed. This crib is easy to put together, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to move into and out.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their bedroom simple and tidy. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be transformed as a full-size toddler bed or bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy using eco-friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's toxic free mattresses.
Budget
A good crib must be built with strength and simple assembly instructions that allow for an easy and painless installation. And a stylish design that fits with the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs vary in terms of cost however there are some models that are suitable for every budget.
For instance, the highly 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 rock gently to help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for babies with reflux. The added canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a comfortable like a womb. It can also be used as a portable play area and provides your child with a secure and comfortable spot to sleep when traveling.
Best cot for newborn is another option that doesn't sacrifice style. It blends a modern aesthetic with eco-friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is produced sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides which could catch clothing. It is free of rough or sharp edges and is easily dressed by a sheet.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more refined design that complements the décor of the room. If you're in the latter group of parents then 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 without the need for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent who isn't interested in fussiness, go for the more simple and clean-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require for your baby to grow into an adult, but they have a more traditional design than some models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.