Choosing the Best Crib

Choose a crib that you like. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs that have cutouts and drop-sides, as your child could fall in. Instead, opt for one that can easily be transformed into a toddler or daybed.

Safety

As parents, we want to give our children the best possible start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You don't want to use an old crib that could contain a lot of broken or broken parts, and you certainly do not want one that isn't conforming to the current safety standards. If you're purchasing 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 crib's slats should be spaced evenly so that children do not get their heads or fingers within the slats. They should also not have any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could result in injuries. A mattress support system is essential to ensure the safety of your crib and should be adjustable to different heights to accommodate your child as they grow.

Avoid hanging objects such as curtains or blinds as they can strangle your baby. It's a good idea to check your crib regularly for loose or missing items, and replace any that have become dislodged over time.

Some cribs have a side panel that can be lowered. However, it will not stay down for very long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share a bed. Make sure to place your crib away from radiators and windows.

If you're seeking a green crib, pick one that is constructed from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that has been Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking for something superior, select a crib made of sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA, BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemical compounds.

Style

If you're planning to work with a minimal or classic style for your nursery, choosing an attractive crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is a great choice for small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It's also GREENGUARD Certified and comes with an adjustable lower height mattress. 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 the midst of grey!"

This classic high-back crib is crafted using solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a range of contemporary colors that will match any style. It's a bit heavier than the other cribs we've examined, but it's strong enough to make it through toddler-graduation 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 our other top choices.

While it's a great choice for smaller spaces, its unique design can be challenging to find bedding and Nursery Cots sheets for. It's also more bulkier than our other choices and will require to be dismantled to fit through doorways that are standard when moving it from room to room.

Standard cribs are constructed of wood, like maple, good cribs oak, ash, cherry, mahogany or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and they resist nicks and dings much better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable because it's less expensive. This could make the crib more vulnerable to dent and scratches, which may require more frequent cleaning.

Another benefit of a standard crib is that it often comes with a toddler rail which will ensure your child's safety from falling off and climbing. However, keep in mind that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for extra safety.

Convertibility

There are a lot of things to think about when choosing a crib. Think about the size, design, slats, and if it is convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib you like, as it will be a part of your child for a long time. You also want to choose the crib that fits to the decor of your home whether it's traditional or contemporary.

A convertible crib is an excellent choice because it will grow with your child to a toddler bed, and later a full-size bed. This can save you money over time because you won't need to purchase an additional bed for your child.

Some convertible cribs stand out more than other. One of them is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold certified that means it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for design and construction. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings as well as a low profile that makes it easier to take your child into and out of it. It is simple to put together this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes to assemble using an electric drill or driver.

Another good option is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into a toddler bed or daybed. The crib is simple to put together, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to move in and out.

The last crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for minimalists looking to keep their room simple and clean. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be made into 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 methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and is made to be used in conjunction with the brand's toxic-free mattresses.

Budget

A crib that is of good quality should have sturdy construction and straightforward assembly instructions that lead to an easy and painless installation. A stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is important. Cribs vary in terms of price, but there are models that suit every budget.

For instance, 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 toddler bed. It can also roll and rock to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy incline for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rod add-ons provide the baby with an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can even double as a play yard that can be carried around, giving your child an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to sleep on the move.

Another option that doesn't sacrifice on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic 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 meets all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could catch clothing. It has no rough or sharp edges and is easily dressed by a sheet.

Some parents prefer a simple crib to match their contemporary or modern home. Others might prefer a more elegant style that is in keeping with the décor of the room. If your preference falls into the latter category look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. The elegantly designed model can be converted from a bassinet to mini cotbed cribs and later to a full-sized crib, all without bars or mattresses, 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 less cluttered and more clean in appearance. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the components you require to help your baby grow into a toddler. However, they sport a more traditional look compared to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.