Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major fixture in your nursery for a long time and it's essential to pick one you love admiring. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides, since your child may fall into. Instead, choose one that can easily be transformed to a daybed or toddler.
Safety
We want to give our children the best start in life. This starts with a crib that is safe. You don't need to use a crib that has many missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that isn't up to current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, make sure it has the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The crib's slats must be closely spaced so that children cannot catch their heads or fingers within them. They should not contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other embellishments which could cause injury. The mattress support system, which is vital to the security of your crib, must be adjustable to various heights so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.
Avoid hanging items like curtains or blinds, since they could strangle your baby. Check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be removed, but it won't stay down for very long. These are ideal for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks 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 are seeking an eco-friendly crib, pick one that is made of sustainable forests. You should also choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you want to go a step further, look for a crib that is made from sustainably sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, Phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
Whether you're working with a minimal or classic nursery aesthetic, choosing an attractive crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek and is a great choice for small spaces. It also has a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our test participants, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most attractive cribs we've seen, even in a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back crib is made from solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors that will match any style. It's heavier than other cribs we've examined, but it's strong 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 space in the nursery as compared to other top picks.
It's a good choice for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also a bit heavier than some of our other picks and will probably need to be disassembled to fit through standard doors when moving from room to space.
Standard cribs are constructed of wood like oak or maple. They can also be made from mahogany, cherry, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and they resist nicks and dings much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This can make the crib more prone to scratches and dent, which could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling out or climbing. But keep in mind that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for extra security.
Convertibility
There are many things to think about when choosing the right crib. Consider the size, style, slats and whether it's convertible. It's crucial to choose a crib you love as it will be with your baby for many years. It is also important to select a crib that is a good fit in with 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 into a toddler bed and then a full-size bed. This can save you money in the long run because you don't have to buy an additional bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. One of them is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. 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 has three adjustable mattress height settings and an extremely low profile, making it simple to get your baby out and in of the crib. The crib is also easy to build in less than 15 minutes using an electric drill or driver.
cots4tots.co.uk that is worth considering is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and a great deal. It is a classic design and can be transformed into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. This crib is also simple to assemble and has a low profile that allows it to be easily reached in and out of for smaller parents.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great alternative for minimalists who wish to keep their nursery decor simple and clean. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be outfitted as a toddler bed or full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy using environmentally friendly manufacturing methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and is designed to be used together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.
Budget
A good crib will have a sturdy structure and easy assembly instructions that allow for an easy and painless installation. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are numerous crib models that can be bought at various prices.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options that are available. It can be used as a bassinet crib or a toddler bed. It can also gently soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle slope for babies who are reflux. The add-on canopy and drape rod will encase your baby in a comfortable baby-like womb. It can even double as a play yard that can be carried around and provide your child with the security and comfort to nap on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that doesn't sacrifice style. It combines a contemporary design with eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe and is able to be passed on to siblings. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and doesn't have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could catch clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges, and is easily dressed by sheets.
Some parents prefer a simple crib that matches their contemporary or modern home. Some prefer a more elegant design that is in keeping with the interior decor of the room. If your preference falls into the latter category look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This stylish model converts from a bassinet into a mini crib and then to a full crib all without adding mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent that isn't in the mood for fussiness, choose the simpler and cleaner-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to help your baby grow into a toddler. However, they have a more traditional look compared to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.