Choosing the Best Crib
A crib is a crucial feature in your nursery for many years, so it's important to pick a crib that you love admiring. Avoid cribs with 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, we want to give our children the best possible start in life, and that begins with a safe crib. It's not necessary to have cribs that have lots of missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that doesn't meet current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is up to the highest safety standards.
The slats that comprise the crib should be spaced to prevent children from getting their hands or heads in the slats, and they shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other decorations which could cause injury risk. A mattress support system is vital to the crib's safety and must be able to adjust to different sizes to accommodate your child as they develop.
You'll also want to avoid hanging objects, such as curtains or blind strings, as these present the risk of strangulation to your infant. It's a good idea to check your crib regularly for any missing or loose objects, and replace any that have become dislodged over time.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be moved down. However it won't be down for long. These are ideal for parents who want to sleep with their children without the dangers of bed-sharing, but make certain that you're in an area away from radiators and windows and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're seeking an eco-friendly crib, select one constructed from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to buy something superior, select a crib that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA chemical compounds, BPA-based chemicals phthalates and other chemical compounds.
Style
If you're going for a minimal or classic design, an elegant crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 can be used in smaller spaces due to its slim and sleek. It's GREENGUARD Certified and comes with a lower height mattress setting. One of our testers, 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 has been constructed using solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors to fit any style. It's heavier than the other cribs we've tested, but it's durable enough to get 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 compared to other top picks.
While it's a great option for small spaces, its unique design may be difficult to find bedding and sheets for. It's also bulkier than our other picks and will require to be dismantled to fit through doorways that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, such as maple or oak. They are also made of mahogany, cherry, birch or cherry. They tend to be longer-lasting than other materials and can withstand scratches and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over hardwoods that are more durable to save money. This can make a crib more susceptible to scratches and dents and could require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of the standard crib is that it often includes a toddler rail, which can help to keep your child safe from climbing and falling out. But keep in mind that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail for extra safety.
Convertibility
There are numerous things to think about when choosing a crib. Take into consideration the size, style, slats, and if it's convertible. It is essential to pick a crib that you like since it will be used by your baby for many years. You should also pick the crib that is compatible with the style of your home, no matter if it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib will grow with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, and eventually to a full-size bed. This will save you money in the long run because you don't need to purchase a separate 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 is GREENGUARD gold certified that means it meets or exceeds the safety standards of the government in terms of the construction and finish. It also has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and an extremely low profile, making it easy to get your baby out and in of the crib. It is also easy to put together in less than 15 minutes using the use of a cordless drill/driver.
Another option that is worth considering is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and a great deal. It has a classic design and can be converted to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is simple to assemble, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to get into and out.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. reference is ideal for minimalists looking to keep their bedroom simple and tidy. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be made as a full-size toddler bed or bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and uses environmentally conscious 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 is one that has a solid construction and easy assembly instructions. This will make the process painless. And a stylish design that is compatible with your nursery decor is also essential. Cribs vary in terms of cost, but there are models that suit 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 as a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy slope for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rod add-ons envelop the baby in an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can also serve as a portable play space and provides your child with a secure and comfortable place to nap when traveling.
Another option that doesn't skimp on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with eco-friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is produced sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down through siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, which include no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides which could catch clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges and is easily dressed with a sheet.
Some parents prefer a simple crib that matches their modern or contemporary home. Others may prefer a more elegant design that matches the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter category of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. This stylish model converts from a bassinet into an infant crib, and then to a full crib all without adding mattresses or bars, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're an adult who doesn't enjoy the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is more simple and clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the components you require to aid your baby's development into a toddler. However, they sport a more traditional look compared to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.