Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you love. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your baby might get into, and select one that is easily convertible to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
As parents are, we'd like to give our children the best start in life, and that begins with a safe crib. You don't want to use an old crib that might have a lot of loose or damaged parts, and you definitely shouldn't buy one that's not in compliance with current safety standards. If you're buying 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 on a crib must be closely spaced so that children cannot catch their fingers or heads in them. They shouldn't contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other ornaments that could result in injury. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the security of your crib, must be adjustable to various levels so that it can expand with your child.
Avoid dangling items such as curtains or blinds, because they could strangle your child. It is a good idea to examine your crib frequently for missing or loose items, and replace them if they are missing or that are loosened over time.
Some cribs come with an additional side panel that can be lowered however it won't stay down for very long. These are great for parents who don't want to share with their children. Be sure to keep your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're looking for a crib which is environmentally friendly, consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's recommended to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to buy something more durable, consider a crib that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA chemical compounds, BPA-based chemicals phthalates, and other chemicals.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to design an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib will be a great option. The SnuzPod4 fits well in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It also has a lower mattress setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, stated that the crib was "up among the most beautiful cribs we've seen, even in a sea grey!"
This classic high-back crib is crafted with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a range of contemporary colors that will match any style. It's heavier than other cribs that we test, but it's durable enough to last into the age of toddler 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 when compared to some of our other top choices.
While it's a great option for small spaces, its distinctive design can be difficult to find bedding and sheets for. It's also heavier than our other picks and will require to be disassembled to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically made from wood, like maple oak, ash mahogany, cherry or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and resist damage and nicks much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers select pine over hardwoods that are more durable to save money. This could make a crib more susceptible to damage and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of a standard crib is that it typically includes a toddler rail, which can help to keep your child safe from falling down and climbing. Be aware, however, that many cribs for toddlers will require you to buy a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are numerous things to consider when choosing a crib. Consider the size, style, slats and whether it is convertible. It's crucial to choose the crib you love since it will be there for your baby for many years. It is also important to choose the crib that will go with the decor of your home, regardless of whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib is a fantastic choice because it will grow with your child into an infant bed, and eventually a full-size bed. This will save money in the long run since you don't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs available however, certain models stand out more than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finishing. It also has three mattress settings that can be adjusted and a low-profile that makes it easier to get your child in and out of it. It is simple to put together this crib and takes less than 15 minutes to assemble using an electric drill or driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a great alternative. This crib is a good value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It's a classic style and can be made into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is simple to put together, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to move in and out.
best cot bed on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery decor simple and simple. It's a stylish, affordable crib that can be transformed to become a toddler bed or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy using eco-friendly production methods. 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 will have a sturdy structure and simple assembly instructions that lead to relatively frustration-free installation. A chic design that complements the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs can run the gamut in terms of price however, there are models that are suitable for every budget.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, a crib, or a toddler bed and can also rock and roll to gently rock your baby to sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rods envelop the baby in a cozy, womb-like atmosphere. It can also be used as a portable play area that provides your child with a safe and comfortable spot to sleep when they are on the move.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another alternative that doesn't sacrifice design. It combines a contemporary aesthetic 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 through siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could snag clothing. It has no rough or sharp edges and is easily dressed by sheets.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to complement their contemporary or modern home. Others may prefer a more refined design that is in keeping with the interior decor of the room. If you fall into the latter category of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This stylish model converts from bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full crib all without adding mattresses or bars, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you are a parent who isn't a fan of fussiness, choose a crib that is less cluttered and more clean looking. 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 have a more traditional look compared to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.