Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you love. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your baby could fall into, and select a design that is able to be converted 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 could contain a number of loose or damaged parts, and you shouldn't buy one that's not conforming to the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats in the crib should be spaced to stop children from falling or catching their heads in the slats and should not have any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could create a risk. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the security of your crib, should be able to be adjusted to various heights so that it can grow with your child.
It is also important to stay clear of dangling objects such as blind strings or curtains, since they pose a strangulation risk for your infant. Check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if necessary.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be moved down. However it won't be down for very long. These are great for parents who don't want to share the bed. Be sure to place your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you are looking for an environmentally friendly crib, pick one that is constructed from sustainable forests. It's recommended to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to buy something better, choose a crib made of sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA chemical compounds, BPA-based chemicals phthalates, and other chemicals.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to design a classic or minimalist nursery, a chic crib can be a wonderful option. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim, making it a good fit for tight spaces. It is also GREENGUARD Certified and has the option of a lower-height mattress. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the most attractive cribs we've seen, even in the midst of grey!"
This classic high-back crib has been constructed using solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors to fit any style. It's heavier than the other cribs we've test, but it's durable enough to last through the toddler years 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 as compared to other top picks.
While it's a great option for smaller spaces, its unique design can be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also bulkier than the other options and will need to be disassembled to pass through doors that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed of wood like maple or oak. They can also be made from mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and can withstand scratches and dings better than soft pine. But be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable since it's less expensive. This can make a crib susceptible to scratches and dents and could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling or climbing. Keep in mind, however, that many cribs specifically designed for toddlers will require the purchase of an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are numerous things to consider. Consider the size, style, slats and whether it's convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib that you like since it will be used by your baby for a long time. You should also choose the crib that is compatible with the style of your home, no matter if it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib is a fantastic option since it grows with your child to a toddler bed and then a full-size bed. This can save you money over time because you won't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs on the market, but certain models stand out more than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. top rated cots is GREENGUARD gold-certified that means it is in compliance with or exceeds government safety standards in the construction and finish. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings as well as a low-profile design that allows you to easily take your child into and out of it. It is also simple to assemble in less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a great alternative. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and is a great purchase. It is a classic crib that can be transformed into an infant bed or a daybed. The crib is also easy to put together and has a low-profile that allows it to be easily reached into and out for small parents.
The final crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery decor simple and tidy. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be transformed to become a toddler bed or full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used alongside the brand's mattresses that are free of toxic substances.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality should have sturdy construction and simple assembly instructions that allow for the installation process being relatively easy. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is essential. Cribs can run the gamut in terms of cost however, there are models that will fit into any budget.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options that are available. It can be used as a bassinet or crib or as a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle slope for babies who are reflux. The added canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a cozy baby-like womb. It could also serve as a play yard that can be carried around and provide your child with the security and comfort to rest on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice style. It combines a modern aesthetic with sustainable materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe and can be passed on to siblings. It meets all CPSC standards and has no drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress with a sheet and has no sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to match their modern or contemporary home. Others may prefer a more elegant style that is in keeping with the décor of the room. If you're in the latter group of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. This elegant model converts from a bassinet into a mini-crib and then a full-size crib with no requirement for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent who doesn't like the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is less cluttered and more clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to help your baby grow into a toddler. However, they have a more traditional look in comparison to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.