Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major feature in your nursery for a long time, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy seeing. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your little one might get into, and choose one that is able to be converted into a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
As parents as parents, we want to provide our babies the best start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You shouldn't use cribs that have lots of missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that doesn't meet the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of the crib should be spaced so that children aren't getting their hands or heads in the slats and also they shouldn't contain any decorative cut outs or other embellishments which could cause injury risk. The mattress support system, which is essential to the safety of your crib, must be adjustable to various levels so that it can expand with your child.
It is also recommended to avoid dangling objects such as blind strings or curtains since they pose the risk of strangulation to your infant. Be sure to check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be removed. However, it will not stay down for long. They are great for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks of bed sharing, but make sure you're in a room away from radiators and windows and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're looking for a crib which is environmentally friendly, consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that has been Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you're looking to buy something better, choose a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates, and other chemicals.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to design a minimalist or classic nursery, a stylish crib can be a wonderful addition. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek which makes it a perfect option for spaces that are tight. top ranked cribs comes with 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 beautiful cribs we've seen even in a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back crib has been constructed with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors to match any aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs we've examined, but it's strong enough to last 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 square footage in the nursery than our 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 bulkier than some of our other picks and may require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard when you move from room to space.
most recommended cribs are usually constructed of wood like maple or oak. They can also be made of mahogany, cherry, birch or cherry. They are typically more long-lasting than other materials, and are resistant to 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 more vulnerable to dents and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to the standard crib is that it often includes a toddler rail, which will help keep your child safe from falling off and climbing. However, be aware that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail for added safety.
Convertibility
When you are deciding on a crib, there are numerous things to consider. Consider the size, style, slats and whether it's convertible. It's important to find a crib that you love, as it will be with your child for a long time. You should also pick the crib that is compatible with the decor of your home, whether it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib can grow with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, then an adult size bed. This will save you money in the long run because you won't have to buy a mattress for your child.
There are many different convertible cribs available However, some stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finish. It also has three mattress settings that can be adjusted and 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 a cordless driver/drill.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another great alternative. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great deal. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into the toddler bed or daybed. The crib is easy to assemble, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to move into and out.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their room simple and tidy. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be made as an adult bed or a full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and employs eco-friendly manufacturing methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and made to be used in conjunction together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.
Budget
A quality crib is one that has a solid construction and simple assembly instructions. This will make the installation relatively easy. And a design that fits with your nursery decor is also crucial. Cribs can run the gamut in terms of cost however, there are models that are suitable for every budget.
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 as a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for babies with reflux. The add-on drape rod and canopy envelop your child in a warm womb-like environment. It can also double as a play yard that can be carried around providing your child with the security and comfort to nap on the go.
Another option that doesn't compromise on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines sustainable 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 from siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could catch clothing. It is easy to dress with a sheet and has no sharp edges.
Some parents might want a minimalist crib to match their contemporary or modern home, whereas others may prefer a more formal design that complements the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter category of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a fantastic choice. The elegantly designed model can be converted from bassinet to a mini crib and then to a full crib, all without the need for 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 less cluttered and more elegant cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the parts you need to allow your baby to develop into a toddler, however they have a more traditional design than some models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.