Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you love. It will be in your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs that have cutouts and drop-sides, since your child may fall into. Instead, choose an option that can easily be transformed into a toddler or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This begins with a crib that's safe. It's not necessary to have an infant crib with lots of missing or loose pieces or is one that isn't in line with 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 standards.
The slats of a crib must be closely spaced to ensure that children don't get their heads or fingers within them. They shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could cause injury. A mattress support system is essential to ensure the safety of your crib, and it should be adjustable to different sizes to accommodate your child as they develop.
It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains, since they pose the risk of strangulation to your infant. It's a good idea to inspect your crib on a regular basis for loose or missing objects, and replace any that are loosened over time.
Some cribs have a side panel that can be lifted but it won't be in place for long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share with their children. Make sure to place your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're seeking a crib that is eco-friendly, think about one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. You should also choose a crib that has been Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed the tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you're looking for something even superior, select a crib made of sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates, and other chemicals.
Style
If you're planning to work with a classic or minimalist design, an attractive crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 can be used in smaller spaces due to its slim and sleek. It also has a lower mattress setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, stated that the crib was "up among the most beautiful cribs we've ever seen even among sea grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs that we've tested, but it's durable enough to get through 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 up more space in the nursery when compared to some of our other top choices.
It's a great option for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also more bulkier than our other choices and will have to be disassembled to fit through doorways that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, like maple oak, ash cherry, mahogany, or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and they resist nicks and dings much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This can make the crib more prone to dent and scratches which could require more frequent cleaning.
best rated cribs will also include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling or climbing. Keep in mind, however, that many cribs specifically designed for toddlers require you to buy an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a crib. You have to consider size, style and slat type, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It is crucial to choose the crib you love, as it will be used by your baby for a long period of time. It is also important to choose a crib to fit in with the decor of your home, whether it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib will expand with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, and eventually to a full-size bed. This will save you money in the long run because you won't need to buy a mattress for your child.
There are numerous convertible cribs available, but certain models stand out more than others. 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 the construction and finish. It also has three adjustable mattress settings as well as a low profile that allows you to easily take your child into and out of it. This crib is also relatively simple to assemble and can be assembled in less than 15 minutes using an electric drill or driver.
Another option is another 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 design and can be transformed into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed by the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is also easy 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 is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery designs simple and clean. This stylish crib can be converted into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy using environmentally friendly production methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and is made to be used in conjunction together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.
Budget
A good crib is one that has a solid construction, and simple assembly instructions. This makes the assembly easy. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are numerous models of cribs that can be purchased at different costs.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most versatile options that are available. It can be used as a bassinet or crib or a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to rock your baby to slumber or create an easy slope for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rods provide the baby with the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can even double as a portable play area, giving your child the security and comfort to rest on the go.
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 birch plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no drop-sides or decorative cutouts 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 contemporary or modern home. Others may prefer a more refined design that matches the décor of the room. If your preference falls into the latter look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful model transforms from a bassinet into an infant crib and then a full-size crib without the need for bars or mattresses.
If you are an adult who doesn't enjoy excessive fussiness, consider a crib that is more simple and clean looking. 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 look than some other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.