Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key feature in your nursery for a long time and it's essential to pick a crib that you love admiring. Avoid cribs that have cutouts and drop-sides, as your child might fall in. Instead, opt for one that can easily be transformed to a daybed or toddler.
Safety
We want to give our children the best start in life. This begins with a crib that's safe. It's not necessary to have cribs that have many missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that isn't up to current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats that comprise a crib should be tightly spaced to prevent children from getting their hands or heads in them and also they shouldn't contain any decorative cut outs or other decorations that could pose an injury risk. A mattress support system is also vital to the crib's safety and must be adjustable to different sizes to accommodate your child as they grow.
Avoid hanging objects such as blind strings or curtains, since they could strangle your baby. It's a good idea inspect your crib on a regular basis for loose or missing objects, and replace any that have become dislodged in the course of time.
Some cribs come with a side panel which can be moved down. However it won't be down for long. cots to tots are useful for parents who wish to sleep with their children without the dangers of bed-sharing, but be certain that 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 are seeking an eco-friendly crib, pick one that is made of sustainable forests. You should also consider a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you're looking to buy something superior, select a crib that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA chemical compounds, BPA-based chemicals phthalates and other chemical compounds.
Style
If you're planning to work with a minimal or classic design, an attractive crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek and is a great option for spaces that are tight. It is also GREENGUARD Certified and comes with an adjustable lower height mattress. One of our test participants, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most beautiful cribs we've seen even in the midst of grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety contemporary colors that can be matched to any style. It's a bit heavier than other cribs that we've tried, but it's sturdy enough to last 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 takes up more square footage in the nursery than some of our other top choices.
It's a good choice for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also a bit bulkier than our other picks and may require dismantling in order to fit through standard doors when moving from room to the next.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, such as maple, oak, ash, mahogany, cherry or birch. They are typically more long-lasting than other materials and resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. However, be aware that some manufacturers use pine instead of the more durable hardwoods because it's cheaper. This could make the crib more vulnerable to scratches and dent, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to a standard crib is that it often includes a toddler rail, which will ensure your child's safety from falling off and climbing. But keep in mind that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for extra security.
Convertibility
When you are deciding on a crib, there are many aspects to take into consideration. You have to consider size, style and slat style, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It is essential to pick a crib that you like since it will be used by your baby for a long time. You should also pick the crib that is compatible with the decor of your home, no matter if it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib is a great option since it grows with your child until it becomes a toddler bed, and later a full-size bed. This can save you money in the long run because you don't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs on the market However, some stand out more than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified which means it meets or surpasses the safety standards of the government in terms of design and construction. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings and a low-profile design that allows you to easily take your child into and out of it. The crib is also simple to assemble and can be assembled in less than 15 minutes using an electric drill or driver.
Another option that is worth considering is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and is a great purchase. It has a classic design and can be converted to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is easy to assemble, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to move in and out.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery design simple and clean. This stylish crib can be made into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing techniques. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxic substances.
Budget
A quality crib is one that has a solid construction, and simple assembly instructions. This will make the process easy. A stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is important. Cribs can run the gamut in terms of price however, there are models that will fit into any budget.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, is one of the most flexible options available that are available. It can be set up as a bassinet crib or a toddler bed. It can also roll and rock to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle incline for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rods will encase your baby in the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can even double as a portable play yard providing your child with an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to rest on the go.
Another option that doesn't compromise on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with eco-friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is sustainably made 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 that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress using sheets and does not have sharp edges.
Some parents may want a minimal crib to complement their contemporary or modern home, while others might prefer a more stately design that suits the room's decor. If you fall in the latter category, consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This stylish model converts from a bassinet to an infant crib, and then to a full crib, all without adding mattresses or bars, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent that isn't interested in fussiness, go for the more simple and clean-looking cribs. 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 an older-style look when compared to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.