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 might get into, and choose an option 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 don't need to use cribs that have lots of missing or loose pieces and you shouldn't choose one that doesn't meet current safety standards. When buying a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The crib's slats should be positioned so that children cannot catch their heads or fingers within them. They should not contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other decorations that could cause injuries. A mattress support system is also crucial to the safety of the crib, and it should be able to adjust to different heights to accommodate your baby as they grow.
You'll also want to avoid hanging objects like blind strings or curtains since they pose the risk of strangulation to your infant. Be sure to check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if needed.
Some cribs come with a side panel which can be moved down. However, it will not stay down for 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 seeking a green crib, choose one constructed from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that has been Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed tests to ensure that there are no emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to buy something more durable, consider a crib made from 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 an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib can be a wonderful addition. The SnuzPod4 can be used in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It also has a lower mattress setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our test participants, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the most beautiful cribs we've seen even in a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back crib is crafted with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors that will match any style. It's a bit heavier than other cribs that we've tried, but it's sturdy enough to make it 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 as compared to other top picks.
While it's a great choice for smaller spaces, its unique design can be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also a bit heavier than our other options and may require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard in order to move from room the next.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, including maple oak, ash mahogany, cherry or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and they resist damage and nicks much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers choose pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib susceptible to scratches and dents, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to a standard crib is that it typically comes with a toddler rail which can ensure your child's safety from falling down and climbing. Be aware that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers require you to buy a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to selecting a crib, there are numerous things to consider. Consider the size, style, slats, and if it's convertible. It is essential to pick a crib you love as it will be with your baby for many years. You should also choose the crib that is compatible with the style of your home, regardless of whether it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib is a fantastic choice because it will grow with your child until it becomes a toddler bed and then to a larger bed. This will save money in the long run since you don't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
There are numerous convertible cribs on the market, but certain models stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it is in compliance with or exceeds the government safety standards for construction and finish. It also has three adjustable mattress settings as well as a low profile that makes it easier to get your child in and out of it. It's easy to put together this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes with an electric drill or driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another great alternative. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and a great buy. It has a classic design and can be transformed into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. This crib is also simple to assemble and has a low profile that allows it to be easily reached to and out of for smaller parents.
The last crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery designs simple and tidy. It's a stylish, affordable crib that can be made to become a toddler bed or full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and uses environmentally conscious production methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and designed to be used together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.
Budget
A good crib will have a sturdy structure and simple assembly instructions that lead to relatively frustration-free installation. And a design that matches your nursery decor is also important. There are a variety of cribs available to be purchased at different costs.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or toddler bed and can also roll and rock to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies who have reflux. The canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a cozy baby-like womb. It can also be used as a portable play space, providing your child with a safe and comfortable spot to sleep while moving around.
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 produced sustainably in Europe and can be passed down to siblings. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and has no drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could scratch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents might prefer a minimalist crib to match their modern or contemporary home, whereas others may prefer a more formal style that is suited to the room's decor. If you're in the latter category of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This stylish model converts from bassinet to a mini crib and then to a full crib all without the need for mattresses or bars, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who isn't into fussiness, opt for the less cluttered and more elegant cribs . The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the components you require to assist your baby to grow into an adult. However, they have a more traditional look compared to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.