Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you like. It will be part of your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs that have cutouts and drop-sides, since your child may fall into. Instead, pick a design which is easily converted into a daybed or toddler.
Safety
As parents, we want to give our babies the best start in life, and that begins with a safe crib. You shouldn't use a crib that has many missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that isn't up to the current safety standards. When buying a crib, make sure it has the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of a crib must be closely spaced to ensure that children don't get their fingers or heads in the slats. They shouldn't include any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could result in injuries. A mattress support system is also vital to the crib's safety and should be adjustable to different heights to accommodate your baby as they grow.
You'll also want to avoid dangling objects such as curtains or blind strings, as these present an opportunity for strangulation for your baby. Check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if necessary.
Some cribs come with a side panel which can be removed. However, it will not stay down for long. These are ideal for parents who want to co-sleep, but without the dangers of bed-sharing, but be certain that you're in an area away from radiators and windows and that your baby isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're looking for a crib which is eco-friendly, think about one made of wood from sustainable forests. You should also choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you're looking to go further, look for a crib that's made from sustainable sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
If you're going for a minimal or classic style for your nursery, choosing a stylish crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim and is a great choice for small spaces. It is also GREENGUARD Certified and has a lower height mattress setting. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib was "up there with the best-looking cribs we've ever seen, even among sea grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of contemporary colors that can be matched to any style. 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 space in the nursery as compared to some of our other top picks.
While it's a great option for smaller spaces, its unique design may be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also more bulkier than the other options and will require 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 oak or maple. They can also be made of mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and can withstand damage and nicks 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 may require more frequent cleaning.
cot sets to the standard crib is that it typically includes a toddler rail, which can ensure your child's safety from falling down and climbing. But keep in mind that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail to ensure safety.
Convertibility
There are many things to consider when choosing a crib. You have to consider size, style and slat style and if it's convertible or not. It's crucial to choose a crib you love as it will be with your baby for many years. You should also pick the crib that is compatible with the decor of your home, regardless of whether it's contemporary or traditional.
cot sets will grow with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, and eventually to a full-size bed. great crib will save you money in the long run since you don't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
There are numerous convertible cribs available However, certain models stand out more than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finish. It also has three adjustable mattress settings and a low profile that allows you to easily get your child in and out of it. It is easy to assemble this crib and takes less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
Another good option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is a great value and is GREENGUARD Gold certified. It has a classic design and can be transformed into an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. This crib is also simple to put together and has a low profile that makes it easy to reach into and out for small parents.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery design simple and tidy. This chic crib can be converted into a full-size or toddler bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly manufacturing 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 quality crib is one that has a solid construction, and simple assembly instructions. This will make the process effortless. A stylish design that is compatible with your nursery decor is also essential. Cribs vary 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 flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently help your baby sleep or create an easy slope for reflux babies. The added drape rod and canopy envelop your child in a warm baby-like womb. It can also double as a play yard that can be carried around providing your child with a comfortable and secure place to rest on the go.
Another option that doesn't compromise on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with eco-friendly materials. The solid wood and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is made sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts which could catch clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges and is easily dressed by a sheet.
Some parents prefer a simple crib that matches their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more elegant design that matches the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter category of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This elegant model converts from a bassinet to the size of a mini-crib, and then into a full-size crib, without the requirement for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent who isn't in the mood for fussiness, choose the less cluttered and more elegant cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to aid your baby's development into an adult. However, they have an older-style look when in comparison to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.