Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you love. It will be part of your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your little one could fall into, and select one that is easily convertible to a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best start in life. This starts with a crib that's safe. You shouldn't use an old crib that might have a lot of loose or broken parts, and you definitely don't want one that isn't up to current safety standards. If you're buying a brand new crib, look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is in compliance with the most stringent safety standards.
The crib's slats should be positioned to ensure that children don't get their heads or fingers in the slats. They should not include any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could result in injuries. The mattress support system, which is essential to the security of your crib, must be adjustable to various heights to allow it to expand with your child.
It is also important to stay clear of dangling objects such as blind strings or curtains, as these present the risk of strangulation to your infant. It's a good idea examine your crib frequently for loose or missing items, and replace them if they are missing or that are loosened in the course of time.
Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be removed but it won't be down for very long. These are ideal for parents who wish to co-sleep, but without the dangers of bed-sharing, but make sure you're in an area free of windows and radiators and that your baby isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're seeking a crib that is eco-friendly, think about one made from wood from sustainable forests. It's also a good idea to pick a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to go more, consider a crib made of sustainably sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to create a minimalist or classic nursery, a chic crib will be a great addition. The SnuzPod4 fits well in tiny spaces since it's slim and sleek. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most beautiful cribs we've seen, even in the midst of 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 aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs that we've examined, but it's strong 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 more space in the nursery when compared to some of our other top picks.
It's a good choice for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also a bit bulkier than our other options, and it will likely need to be disassembled to fit through doors that are standard when you move from room to the next.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, such as maple or oak. They are also made of cherry, mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are typically more durable than other materials and resist damage better than soft pine. But be aware that certain manufacturers use pine instead of more durable hardwoods since it's less expensive. This could make a crib more susceptible to damage and scratches, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of a standard crib is that it usually comes with a toddler rail which will help to keep your child safe from falling off and climbing. Remember that a lot of cribs specifically designed for toddlers require the purchase of a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are numerous aspects to take into consideration when selecting a crib. Consider the size, style, slats, and if it is convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib that you love because it will be with your child for a long period of time. It is also important to select a crib that is a good fit into your home's decor regardless of whether it's traditional or contemporary.
A convertible crib will grow with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, and eventually to a full-size bed. This can save you money in the long run since you don't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs on the market however, some stand out better than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finish. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings as well as a low-profile design that makes it easier to take your child into and out of it. The crib is also easy to build in less than 15 minutes using a cordless drill/driver.
small cot beds is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. 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. This crib is easy to assemble, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to move into and out.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for those who want to keep their nursery simple and clean. This elegant crib can be made into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy with environmentally-friendly manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used alongside the brand's toxic free mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy structure and easy assembly instructions. This will make the installation relatively painless. And a stylish design that is compatible with the decor of your nursery is important. There are a variety of models of cribs that can be purchased at different prices.
For instance, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet or crib or a toddler bed. It can also gently help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for babies who are reflux. The canopy and drape rods provide the baby with a cozy, womb-like atmosphere. It can also be used as a portable play area that provides your child with a secure and comfortable space to rest while traveling.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice style. It combines a modern style with eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe and is able to be passed on to children. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress using sheets and does not have sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to match their modern or contemporary home. recommended cribs prefer a more elegant style that is in keeping with the décor of the room. If your preference falls in the latter category, consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This stylish model converts from a bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full crib all without the need for bars or mattresses, 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 simpler and cleaner looking. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require to help your baby develop into a toddler, but they have more of a traditional style than other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.