Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key feature in your nursery for years so it's crucial to pick a crib that you love looking at. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your little one could fall into, and choose one that can be easily converted to a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best start in life. This begins with a crib that is safe. You shouldn't use cribs that have a lot loose or missing pieces, nor do you want one that doesn't meet the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of a crib must be closely spaced so that children do not get their heads or fingers in the slats. They shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could cause injury. A mattress support system is also essential to ensure the safety of your crib and should be adjustable to different sizes to accommodate your child as they grow.
It is also recommended to avoid dangling objects such as blind strings or curtains, because they pose an opportunity for strangulation for your infant. It's a good idea to check your crib regularly for any missing or loose objects, and replace any that have gotten lost over time.
Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be lowered. However, it will not stay down for very long. These are useful for parents who want to co-sleep, but without the dangers of bed-sharing, but make sure you're in an area that is away from windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're seeking a crib that is eco-friendly, think about one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's important to select a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go even further, you should look for a crib that is made from sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to design an elegant or classic nursery, a chic crib can be a wonderful option. The SnuzPod4 fits well in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It's GREENGUARD Certified and comes with the option of a lower-height mattress. One of our test subjects, 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 baby crib is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs that we've examined, but it's strong enough to make it through 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 cribs.
While a good option for small spaces, its distinctive design can be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also a bit heavier than some of our other options and may require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard when you move from room to space.
Standard cribs are usually constructed of wood like oak or maple. They are also made of mahogany, cherry, birch or cherry. They tend to be 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 can make the crib more vulnerable to scratches and dent, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to the standard crib is that it often comes with a toddler rail which can help to keep your child safe from falling off and climbing. Be aware that a lot of cribs specifically designed for toddlers require you to buy an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to selecting a crib, there are many factors to consider. Consider the size, style, slats, and if it is convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib that you like since it will be with your baby for many years. You should also choose the crib that is compatible with the style of your home, whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib is an excellent option because it can grow with your child to an infant bed, and eventually to a larger bed. This will save you money in the long run because you won't have to purchase a mattress for your child.
Some convertible cribs stand out more than other. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified which means it is in compliance with or exceeds federal safety standards for design and construction. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings as well as a low-profile design that makes it easier to get your child in and out of it. It is easy to assemble this crib in less than 15 minutes to assemble using a cordless driver/drill.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another good option. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great deal. It's a classic style and can be converted to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is simple to assemble, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to move into and out.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists looking to keep their nursery designs simple and clean. This chic crib can be made into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing techniques. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and designed to be used with the brand's toxic-free mattresses.
Read Full Report is one that has a solid construction and easy assembly instructions. This will make the installation relatively effortless. And a stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is important. Cribs vary in terms of cost however, there are models that suit every budget.
For example, 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 gently rock your baby to slumber or create a gentle slope for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rods envelop the baby in an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can also double as a portable play yard, giving your child the security and comfort to rest on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice style. It blends a modern design with eco-friendly materials. The solid wood and Baltic birch plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could snag clothing. It is free of sharp or rough edges and is easily dressed by a sheet.
Some parents might prefer a minimalist crib to match their contemporary or modern home, while others may prefer a more formal style that complements the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter group of parents, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. The elegantly designed model can be converted 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 a parent who doesn't like the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is less cluttered and more clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to assist your baby to grow into an adult. However, they sport more of a traditional style in comparison to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.