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Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you like. It will be in your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs with cutouts and drop-sides, as your child might fall in. Instead, choose a design which is easily converted to a daybed or toddler.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This starts with a crib that's 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 conforming to the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, make sure it has the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats that comprise the crib should be spaced so that children aren't getting their hands or heads in them and also they shouldn't contain any cut-outs for decorative purposes or other decorations that could pose an injury risk. The mattress support system, which is vital to the safety of your crib should be able to be adjusted to various heights so that it can expand with your child.
You'll also want to avoid hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains, because they pose an opportunity for strangulation for your baby. It's a good idea to examine your crib frequently for missing or loose items, and replace them if they are missing or that have become dislodged over time.
Some cribs have a side panel that can be lowered. However it won't be down for long. These are great for parents who do not want to share the bed. Make sure to keep your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you are looking for an environmentally friendly crib, choose one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's important to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed a test for low chemical emissions. If you want to go a step further, you should look for a crib that is made from sustainable sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to create a minimalist or classic nursery, a stylish crib is a fantastic option. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim and is a great fit for tight spaces. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our test participants, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most attractive cribs we've seen even in the midst of grey!"
The classic high-back crib for babies is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs we've examined, but it's strong enough to get 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 as compared to our other top choices.
While a good option for smaller spaces, its unique design can be challenging to find bedding and sheets for. It's also a bit heavier than some of our other choices and will probably require dismantling to fit through standard doors in order to move from room space.
Standard cribs are typically made of wood such as maple or oak. They are also made of mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and can withstand damage and nicks much better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of more durable hardwoods since it's less expensive. This could make a crib more susceptible to damage and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to a standard crib is that it usually includes a toddler rail, which can help to keep your child safe from falling down tots and cots climbing. However, be aware that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for added security.
Convertibility
There are many aspects to take into consideration when selecting the right crib. Consider the size, style, slats, and if it's convertible. It's crucial to choose a crib you love as it will be with your baby for many years. You should also select a crib that is a good fit to the decor of your home, whether that be traditional or modern.
A convertible crib can grow with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, then a full size bed. This will save you money in the end because you won't need to purchase a mattress for your child.
Some convertible cribs stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified, which means it is in compliance with or exceeds federal safety standards for Mini cot beds design and construction. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings and a low profile that makes it easier to take your child into and out of it. It is easy to assemble this crib in less than 15 minutes using a cordless driver/drill.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another good option. This crib is a great value and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is 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 makes it easy to reach to and out for small parents.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for those who want to keep their room simple and clean. This chic crib can be converted into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy using eco-friendly manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A good crib will have a sturdy construction, and simple assembly instructions. This makes the assembly effortless. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is essential. There are numerous crib models that can be purchased at different prices.
For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet or crib, or as a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently help your Baby Cot sleep or create a gentle slope for babies who are reflux. The canopy and drape rods envelop the baby in an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can also serve as a portable play space that provides your child with a secure and comfortable space to rest when they are traveling.
Another option that doesn't sacrifice on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines eco-friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no drop-sides or decorative cutouts which could catch clothing. It has no rough or sharp edges, and is easily dressed by a sheet.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more refined design that is in keeping with the interior decor of the room. If you're in the latter category of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. This elegant-looking model converts from a bassinet to an infant crib, and then to a full crib all without mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who's not interested in fussiness, go for the less cluttered and more elegant cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the parts you need to help your baby become a toddler, however they have more of a traditional style than other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.