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Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you like. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your baby could get into, and opt for an option that is able to be converted into a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best baby cots possible start in life. This begins with a crib that is safe. You shouldn't use an old crib that might contain a lot of broken or damaged parts, and you don't want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is in compliance with the most stringent safety standards.
The slats that comprise the crib must be spaced to prevent children from catching their fingers or head in them and should not have any decorative cutouts or other embellishments which could cause injury risk. A mattress support system is vital to the crib's safety and must be adjustable to different heights to accommodate your child as they develop.
You'll also want to avoid dangling objects such as blind strings or curtains, since they pose a strangulation risk for your baby. It's a good idea examine your crib frequently for missing or loose objects, and replace any that have become dislodged over time.
Some cribs have the option of a side panel that could be lowered but it won't be in place for long. These are great for parents who do not want to share a bed. Be sure to keep your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're seeking a crib that is environmentally friendly, consider one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of 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, BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemical compounds.
Style
If you're looking to create a classic or minimalist nursery, a stylish crib is a fantastic addition. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim and is a great option for spaces that are tight. It also has a lower mattress 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 a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back crib is crafted with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors to fit any style. It's a bit heavier than the other cribs we've examined, but it's strong 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 occupies more space in the nursery than some of our other top choices.
It's a great choice for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also heavier than our other options and may need to be disassembled to fit through doors that are standard in order to move from room space.
Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, including maple oak, ash cherry, mahogany, or birch. They are typically more long-lasting than other materials and resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers select pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This could make a crib more vulnerable to dents and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling or climbing. However, be aware that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail to ensure security.
Convertibility
There are numerous things to think about when choosing the right crib. You must consider the size, style and slat style and whether it's convertible or not. It is essential to pick a crib that you like since it will be with your Baby Cot for a long time. You also want to choose the crib that fits to the decor of your home whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib can grow with your baby, turning into a toddler bed, and eventually to a full-size bed. This will save you money in the long run because you don't have to buy an additional bed for your child.
There are numerous convertible cribs available however, certain models stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good cribs example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finishing. It also has three height settings that can be adjusted and an extremely low profile, making it easy to get your baby in and out of the crib. It is also easy to put together, taking less than 15 minutes with a cordless drill/driver.
Another good option is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is a great value and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It's a classic style and can be made into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed by the purchase of separate conversion kits. This crib is also simple to assemble and has a low-profile that makes it easy to reach into and out of for short parents.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for minimalists who want to keep their bedroom simple and clean. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be outfitted into a toddler bed or full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy with environmentally-friendly production methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and specifically designed to work alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy construction, and simple assembly instructions. This will make the process effortless. A stylish design that fits with your nursery decor is also crucial. There are numerous cribs available to be purchased at different costs.
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 crib or as a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy slope for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rod add-ons envelop the baby in an ambiance that is warm cots and tots womb-like. It can also serve as a portable play area and provides your child with a safe and comfortable space to rest when moving around.
Another option that doesn't skimp on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with sustainable materials. The solid Birch and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is made sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down through siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, which include no drop-sides or decorative cutouts which could catch clothing. It is easy to dress with a sheet and has no sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to match their modern or contemporary home. Others may prefer a more elegant style that matches the interior decor of the room. If you're in the latter category of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This stylish model converts from a bassinet into 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 an adult who doesn't enjoy the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is more simple and clean looking. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to help your baby grow into an adult. They do however have an older-style look when as compared to other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.