Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key fixture in your nursery for many years and it's essential to pick one you love admiring. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your little one could get into, and opt for one that is easily convertible to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
As parents as parents, we want to provide our babies the best start in life, and that starts with a safe crib. You shouldn't use an old crib that might contain a lot of broken or damaged parts, and you shouldn't buy one that's not in compliance with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of a crib should be tightly spaced to stop children from getting their hands or heads in the slats and also they shouldn't contain any cut-outs for decorative purposes or other embellishments that could create a risk. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the safety of your crib should be adjustable to different heights so that it can grow with your child.
It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects, such as curtains or blind strings, as these present the risk of strangulation to your baby. It's a good idea examine your crib frequently for any missing or loose items, and replace them if they are missing or that have become dislodged in the course of time.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be removed however it won't stay in place for long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share the bed. Just make sure you place your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're seeking an eco-friendly crib, select one made of wood from sustainable forests. You should also consider a crib that has been Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed the tests to ensure that there are no emissions of chemicals. If you want to go a step further, you should look for a crib that is made from sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
If you're looking to create a minimalist or classic nursery, a stylish crib can be a wonderful addition. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim, making it a good choice for small spaces. It is 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 the most attractive cribs we've seen, even in the midst of grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of modern colors that match any style. It's heavier than the other cribs we've evaluated, but is sturdy enough to last until 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 more space in the nursery when compared to some of our other top choices.
While it's a great option for small spaces, its unique design may be difficult to find bedding and sheets for. It's also more bulkier than the other options and will need to be dismantled to pass through doors that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, such as maple, oak, ash, mahogany, cherry, or birch. They are typically longer-lasting than other materials and resist nicks and dings better than soft pine. However, be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of more durable hardwoods because it's less expensive. This can make a crib vulnerable to dents and scratches, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to a standard crib is that it typically comes with a toddler rail which can ensure your child's safety from climbing and falling out. Keep in mind that a lot of cribs for toddlers will require you to buy a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When you are deciding on a crib, there are numerous aspects to take into consideration. Think about the size, design, slats, and whether it is convertible. It is essential to choose the crib you love, as it will be with your baby for a long time. It is also important to choose the crib that is compatible with the style of your home, regardless of whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib is a fantastic choice because it will grow with your child into a toddler bed, and later to a larger bed. best cot bed can save you money over time because you won't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs stand out more than other. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified that means it is in compliance with or exceeds the safety standards of the government in terms of design and construction. It also has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and a low profile that makes it simple to get your baby out of the crib. This crib is also relatively easy to put together, taking less than 15 minutes using a cordless drill/driver.
Another option that is worth considering is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and is a great purchase. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into the toddler bed or daybed. This crib is also simple to put together and has a low profile that makes it easy to reach in and out of for short parents.
The final crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for minimalists looking to keep their room simple and clean. It's a stylish, affordable crib that can be made into a full-size toddler bed or bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly production methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and is specifically designed to work with the brand's toxic-free mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality should have sturdy construction and easy assembly instructions that allow for an easy and painless installation. A stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are numerous crib models that can be bought at various prices.
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 also has the ability to roll and rock to gently rock your baby to sleep or create a gentle incline for babies who have reflux. The add-on drape rod and canopy envelop your baby in a comfortable baby-like womb. It can also serve as a portable play space that provides your child with a safe and comfortable place to nap while traveling.
Another option that doesn't sacrifice on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines eco-friendly materials. The solid wood crib of birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe and is able to be passed on to children. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could snag clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges, and is easily dressed with sheets.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to match their contemporary or modern home. Some prefer a more elegant style that matches the interior decor of the room. If you fall 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-sized crib, all without adding mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent that isn't interested in fussiness, go for the less cluttered and more elegant cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to aid your baby's development into a toddler. However, they sport a more traditional look in comparison to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.