Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you like. It will be in your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your child could fall into, and choose one that is able to be converted to a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
As parents, we want to give our children the best start in life, and that starts with a safe crib. You don't want to use an old crib that could contain a number of loose or broken parts, and you certainly shouldn't buy one that's not in compliance with current safety standards. If you're buying a brand new crib, be sure to look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is in compliance with the most stringent safety standards.
The slats of the crib should be spaced to stop children from falling or catching their heads in the slats, 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 it should be adjustable to different heights to accommodate your baby as they grow.
Avoid hanging items like curtains or blinds because they could strangle your child. It is a good idea to examine your crib frequently for any missing or loose objects, and replace any that have gotten lost in the course of time.
Some cribs come with a side panel which can be removed. However, it will not stay down for long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share the bed. Be sure to place 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. You should also consider one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed tests to ensure that there are no emissions of chemicals. If you want to go more, consider a crib made of sustainably sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
Whether you're working with a minimal or classic nursery aesthetic, choosing a stylish crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim and is a great choice for small spaces. It's GREENGUARD Certified and has an adjustable lower height mattress. One of our test subjects, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the best-looking ones we've seen even in the midst of grey!"
This classic high-back crib is crafted from solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors that will match any style. It's heavier than the other cribs we've tried, but it's sturdy enough to get 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 square footage in the nursery than some of our other top cribs.
While a good option for smaller spaces, its unique design can be challenging to find bedding and sheets for. It's also heavier than our other picks and may require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard in order to move from room the next.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, such as maple or oak. They can also be made of cherry, mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are generally longer-lasting than other materials and can withstand damage better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib susceptible to scratches and dents, which may require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will include a toddler rail to keep your child from falling out or climbing. Keep in mind, however, that many cribs designed for toddlers require you to purchase an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are many things to think about when choosing a crib. Take into consideration the size, style, slats, and whether it's convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib that you love because it will be with your child for a long time. It is also important to select a crib that will fit to the decor of your home regardless of whether it's traditional or contemporary.
A convertible crib is an excellent option because it can grow with your child to a toddler bed and then into a full-size bed. This will save you money in the long run since you don't need to purchase an additional bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it is in compliance with or exceeds the government safety standards for construction and finishing. It also comes with three mattress settings that can be adjusted and a low-profile design that makes it easier to take your child into and out of it. It is easy to assemble this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes with a cordless driver/drill.
Another option that is worth considering is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold certified. It is an old-fashioned crib that can be transformed into the toddler bed or daybed. The crib is also easy to assemble and has a low-profile that allows it to be easily reached in and out of for smaller parents.
The final crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for those who want to keep their nursery simple and clean. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be outfitted to become a toddler bed or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly manufacturing techniques. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A good crib will have a sturdy structure and straightforward assembly instructions that lead to an easy and painless installation. A chic design that is in line with your nursery decor is important. Cribs vary in terms of price however there are some models that suit every budget.
For instance, the highly rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options available on the market. cot for sale can be used as a bassinet crib or toddler bed and can also rock and roll to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy incline for babies who have reflux. The add-on drape rod and canopy envelop your child in a warm womb-like environment. It can also serve as a portable play area, providing your child with a safe and comfortable place to nap while traveling.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice style. It combines a modern aesthetic with eco-friendly materials. The solid wood and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is sustainably made in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, which include no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to match their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more elegant style that matches the décor of the room. If you're in the latter group of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This elegant-looking model converts from a bassinet into an infant crib, and then to a full-sized crib, all without bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you are an adult who doesn't enjoy the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is less cluttered and more clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require to help your baby develop into an adult, but they have more of a traditional design than some models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.