Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you like. best rated cribs will be part of your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides, as your child could fall in. Instead, opt for an option that can easily be converted to a daybed or toddler.
Safety
As parents as parents, we want to provide our children the best start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You don't want an old crib that may have a lot of loose or broken parts, and you definitely don't want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of the crib must be spaced to prevent children from falling or catching their heads in the slats and should not have any decorative cutouts or other ornaments which could cause injury risk. A mattress support system is also vital to the crib's safety and must be capable of adjusting to various heights to accommodate your child as they grow.
It is also recommended to avoid hanging objects like blind strings or curtains because they pose a strangulation risk for your baby. Check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs have a side panel which can be removed. However it won't stay down for very long. They are great for parents who wish to sleep with their children without the dangers of bed-sharing, but be certain that you're in an area away from radiators and windows and that your child isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.
If you're looking for an environmentally friendly crib, select one made of sustainable forests. It's also a good idea to pick a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low emissions of chemicals. If you want to go further, you should look for a crib that is made from sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
Whether you're working with a minimal or classic style for your nursery, choosing a stylish crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek, making it a good option for spaces that are tight. It's also GREENGUARD Certified and comes with an adjustable lower height mattress. One of our test subjects, 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 with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a range of contemporary colors to fit any style. It's heavier than the other cribs that we test, but it's durable enough to last until the age of toddler 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 compared to other top choices.
It's a great choice for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also bulkier than the other options and will need to be dismantled to fit through doorways that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically made from wood, including maple oak, ash mahogany, cherry, or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers select pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib susceptible to damage and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will include a toddler rail to keep your child from falling out or climbing. Remember that some cribs designed for toddlers require the purchase of an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are many things to consider. Think about the size, design, slats, and if it is convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib that you like since it will be there for your baby for many years. It is also important to select a crib that will fit into your home's decor regardless of whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib will expand with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, and then an adult size bed. This will 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. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It is GREENGUARD gold certified that means it meets or surpasses federal safety standards for construction and finish. It also has three mattress settings that can be adjusted and a low-profile design that allows you to easily get your child in and out of it. It's easy to put together this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes using the use of a cordless drill/driver.
Another good option is 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 converted into a toddler bed or daybed. The crib is simple to put together, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to get in and out.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for minimalists who want to keep their bedroom simple and tidy. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be outfitted into a full-size toddler bed or bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy using environmentally friendly production 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 good crib will have a sturdy construction and easy assembly instructions. This will make the process effortless. A stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is essential. There are a variety of cribs available to be purchased at different costs.
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 or crib, or as a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy slope for babies with reflux. The added drape rod and canopy envelop your child in a warm womb-like environment. It can also double as a portable play yard and provide your child with the security and comfort to rest on the go.
Another option that doesn't skimp on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines sustainable 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 siblings. It meets all CPSC standards and has no drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress using a sheet and has no sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Others might prefer a more elegant style that complements the décor of the room. If your preference falls in the latter category, consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant model converts from a bassinet to a mini-crib and then a full-size crib without the need for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent who isn't a fan of the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is more simple and clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the parts you need for your baby to become a toddler, but they have a more traditional style than other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.