Pick a crib you love. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your little one might get into, and opt for one that is able to be converted to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
As parents, we want to give our babies the best start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You don't need to use an infant crib with lots of missing or loose pieces and you shouldn't choose one that isn't in line with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats on a crib should be spaced evenly so that children cannot catch their fingers or heads in the slats. They shouldn't include any decorative cutouts or other embellishments which could cause injuries. The mattress support system, which is vital to the security of your crib, must be adjustable to various heights to allow it to expand with your child.
Avoid hanging items like curtains or blinds, as they can strangle your baby. It is a good idea to examine your crib frequently for missing or loose items, and replace them if they are missing or that have gotten lost over time.
Some cribs have the option of a side panel that could be lifted, but it won't stay in place for long. These are great for parents who don't want to share a bed. Make sure to place your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you're looking for an environmentally friendly crib, pick one that is constructed from sustainable forests. It's important to choose a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to go a step further, look for a crib that is made from sustainable 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 an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib will be a great option. The SnuzPod4 can be used in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother Baby's Editor, claimed that the crib was "up there with the most attractive cribs we've seen, even among a sea grey!"This classic high-back crib is made using solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors to match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs we've tried, but it's sturdy 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 than our other top choices.
It's a good choice for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also heavier than our other picks and will need to be disassembled to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed of wood like maple or oak. They can also be made from mahogany, cherry, birch or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This can make the crib more susceptible 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 out or climbing. Be aware that some cribs designed for toddlers require you to buy a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are a lot of aspects to take into consideration when selecting a crib. Think about the size, design, slats and whether it is convertible. It's crucial to choose the crib you love since it will be there for your baby for a long time. It is also important to select a crib that is a good fit to the decor of your home regardless of whether it's traditional or contemporary.
A convertible crib can grow with your baby, turning into a toddler bed, then an adult size bed. This will save money over time because you won't need to purchase an additional bed for your child.
There are many different convertible cribs available However, some stand out better 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. It also has three adjustable mattress settings and a low-profile that makes it easier to take your child into and out of it. This crib is also relatively easy to put together, taking less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another excellent option. This crib is an excellent value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It's a classic style and can be made into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is easy to put together and its low profile makes it easier for parents to move in and out.
The final crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their nursery simple and tidy. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be transformed into an adult bed or a full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. This crib was built in Italy with environmentally-friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxic substances.
BudgetA crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy structure and simple assembly instructions. This will make the process painless. A stylish design that matches your nursery decor is important. Cribs vary in terms of price, but there are models that will fit into any budget.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options available that are available. It can be used as a bassinet, a crib or toddler bed. It also has the ability to roll and rock to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies who have reflux. The add-on canopy and drape rod will encase your baby in a comfortable baby-like womb. It can also serve as a portable play area and provides your child with a safe and comfortable space to rest when they are moving around.
Another option that doesn't skimp on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design 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 meets all CPSC standards and doesn't have drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could catch clothing. It is easy to dress using sheets and does not have sharp edges.
Some parents might want an uncluttered crib that complements their contemporary or modern home, while others might prefer a more formal design that is suited to the room's decor. If you fall in the latter category you should consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant-looking model converts from a bassinet into mini cribs and later to a full-sized crib, all without adding mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who doesn't like fussiness, choose a crib that is more simple and clean in appearance. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require for your baby to grow into an adult, but they have a more traditional design than some models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.
