Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you like. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your child could get into, and opt for a design that is easily convertible to a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
As parents as parents, we want to provide our children the best possible start in life, and that starts with a safe crib. You don't need to use a crib that has a lot loose or missing pieces and you shouldn't choose one that isn't up to current safety standards. When purchasing a crib make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats that comprise the crib should be spaced to prevent children from falling or catching their heads in the slats and also they shouldn't contain any decorative cut outs or other decorations that could pose an injury risk. A mattress support system is also crucial to the safety of the crib and must be able to adjust to different heights to accommodate your baby as they grow.
You'll also want to avoid dangling objects such as curtains or blind strings, because they pose a strangulation risk for your child. Be sure to check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if needed.
Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be moved down. However it won't be down for long. They are ideal for parents who do not want to share a bed. Just make sure you keep your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you are seeking a green crib, select one made of sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that has been Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed the tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you want to go even further, look for a crib made of sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
If you're planning to work with a classic or minimalist nursery aesthetic, choosing a stylish crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 fits well in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It's also GREENGUARD Certified and comes with a lower height mattress setting. One of our test subjects, 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 style. It's heavier than the other cribs that we tested, but durable enough to last until 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 occupies more space in the nursery than our other top picks.
While a good option for small spaces, its unique design may be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also a bit heavier than our other choices and may require dismantling in order to fit through doors that are standard when moving from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, like maple or oak, ash, cherry, mahogany or birch. They are generally more long-lasting than other materials and resist nicks and dings better than soft pine. But be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of more durable hardwoods since it's less expensive. This could make the crib more vulnerable to dent and scratches which could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling or climbing. However, keep in mind that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for extra security.
Convertibility
When it comes to selecting a crib, there are a lot of things to consider. Take into consideration the size, style, slats, and whether it's convertible. It is essential to choose a crib you like, as it will be a part of your baby for a long time. It is also important to select a crib that will fit in with the decor of your home, whether that be traditional or modern.
A convertible crib can grow with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, then an adult size bed. This will save you money in the long run since you don't have to purchase a mattress for your child.
Some convertible cribs stand out more than others. One of them 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 finishing. Full File comes with three adjustable mattress settings and a low-profile design that allows you to easily take your child into and out of it. This crib is also relatively easy to put together and can be assembled in less than 15 minutes using a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another great option. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It has 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 easy to assemble, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to move in and out.
The last crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery designs simple and simple. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be transformed to become an adult bed or a full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy using environmentally friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's toxic free mattresses.
Budget
A quality crib will have a sturdy structure and straightforward assembly instructions that allow for relatively frustration-free installation. A stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is essential. Cribs are available in terms of cost however, there are models that are suitable for every budget.
For instance, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most adaptable options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet crib, or a toddler bed. It also has the ability to roll and rock to gently help your baby sleep or create a gentle incline for babies who have reflux. The add-on canopy and drape rod encase your child in a warm womb-like environment. It can also double as a play yard that can be carried around and provide your child with a comfortable and secure place to nap on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice style. It combines a modern aesthetic with eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is manufactured 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 scratch clothing. It does not have sharp or rough edges and is easily dressed by sheets.
Some parents might want a minimal crib to complement their contemporary or modern home, while others may prefer a more formal style that suits the room's decor. If your preference falls in the latter category, consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant-looking model converts from bassinet to an infant crib, and then to a full crib all without bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're an adult who doesn't enjoy excessive fussiness, consider a crib that is more simple and clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to aid your baby's development into a toddler. However, they sport a more traditional look as compared to other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.