Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major feature in your nursery for a long time, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy looking at. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides, since your child could 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 begins with a crib that's safe. It's not necessary to have an infant crib with a lot loose or missing 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 of the crib must be spaced to prevent children from catching their fingers or head in them, and they shouldn't have any cut-outs for decorative purposes or other embellishments which could cause injury risk. The mattress support system, which is essential to the security of your crib, should be adjustable to different heights to allow it to grow with your child.
It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains, since they pose the risk of strangulation to your child. Examine your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if necessary.
Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be removed. However it won't stay down for very long. These are great for parents who do not want to share with their children. Be sure to place your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you're looking for a crib which is environmentally friendly, consider one made from wood from sustainable forests. It's also a good idea to select a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed a test for low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go further, you should look for a crib made of sustainable sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, Phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
If you're planning to work with a minimal or classic nursery aesthetic, choosing an attractive crib is a must. Continuing in tiny spaces since it's slim and sleek. It also comes with a lower mattress height 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 baby crib is made from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs that we've examined, but it's strong 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 more space in the nursery when compared to some of our other top choices.
It's a great choice for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also heavier than our other picks and will probably require dismantling to fit through standard doors when moving from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, such as maple oak, ash cherry, mahogany, or birch. They are generally more long-lasting than other materials, and are resistant to nicks and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers select pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This could make the crib more vulnerable to scratches and dent, which may require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to keep your child from falling out or climbing. Keep in mind that some cribs designed for toddlers will require you to buy an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to selecting a crib, there are numerous things to consider. Consider the size, style, slats, and whether it's convertible. It is essential to pick the crib you love since it will be there for your baby for many years. You should also pick the crib that is compatible with the decor of your home, whether it's modern or traditional.
A convertible crib is a fantastic option since it grows with your child until it becomes a toddler bed and then to a larger bed. This will save you money in the long run since you don't have to buy a separate mattress for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs available However, some stand out better than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finish. In addition, it has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and an extremely low profile, making it simple to get your baby out of the crib. The crib is also easy to build and can be assembled in less than 15 minutes with an electric drill or driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a great option. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and is a great purchase. It's a classic style and can be transformed into a daybed, toddler bed, or 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 into 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 decor simple and clean. This elegant crib can be made into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and is specifically designed to work alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A good crib must be built with strength and easy assembly instructions that lead to the installation process being relatively easy. A stylish design that is compatible with the decor of your nursery is important. There are numerous models of cribs that can be purchased at different prices.
For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most adaptable options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or as a toddler bed. It can also gently help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for babies with reflux. The add-on canopy and drape rod encase your child in a warm baby-like womb. It can even double as a portable play yard, giving your child an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to sleep on the move.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice style. It blends a modern aesthetic with sustainable materials. The solid wood and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is produced sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no drop-sides or decorative cutouts which could catch clothing. It does not have sharp or rough edges and is easily dressed with sheets.
Some parents might want a minimal crib to complement their modern or contemporary home, whereas others may prefer a more stately design that is suited to the room's decor. If your preference falls in the latter category, consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. The elegantly designed model can be converted from bassinet to 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 a parent that isn't into fussiness, opt for the less cluttered and more elegant cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require to allow your baby to become a toddler, however they have a more traditional style than other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.