Choosing the Best Crib
A crib is a crucial fixture in your nursery for years so it's crucial to pick one you love seeing. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your child might get into, and choose an option that is easily convertible into a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This begins with a crib that's safe. You don't want an old crib that may contain a lot of broken or missing parts, and you certainly don't want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of a crib should be positioned to ensure that children don't get their heads or fingers within the slats. They should also not include any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could result in injury. A mattress support system is also vital to the crib's safety and should be adjustable to different heights to accommodate your child as they develop.
You'll also want to avoid dangling objects such as curtains or blind strings, as these present an opportunity for strangulation for your baby. It's a good idea check your crib regularly for missing or loose items, and replace them if they are missing or that have become dislodged in the course of time.
Some cribs come with a side panel that can be lifted however it won't stay down for long. These are ideal for parents who want to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but make sure that you're positioned in an area that is away from windows and radiators and that your baby isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.
If you're seeking a green crib, choose one constructed from sustainable forests. It's recommended to pick a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to go further, you should look for a crib that's made from sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
Whether you're working with an elegant or minimalist design, a stylish crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek and is a great option for spaces that are tight. It's GREENGUARD Certified and has the option of a lower-height mattress. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib was "up there with the best-looking cribs we've seen, even among a sea grey!"
The classic high-back crib for babies is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a range of contemporary colors that can be matched to any style. It's a bit heavier than the other cribs we've tested, but it's durable enough to get 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 space in the nursery than some of our other top choices.
While it's a great option for smaller spaces, its unique design can be challenging to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also a bit heavier than our other picks and may need to be disassembled to fit through doors that are standard when moving from room to space.
Standard cribs are constructed from wood, including maple or oak, ash, mahogany, cherry or birch. They are generally longer-lasting than other materials and resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers select pine over hardwoods that are more durable to save money. This can make the crib more prone to dent and scratches, which could require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to the standard crib is that it typically comes with a toddler rail which can ensure your child's safety from climbing and falling out. Remember that some cribs specifically designed for toddlers require you to buy an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are a lot of aspects to take into consideration when selecting a crib. It is important to think about the size, style and slat style, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It's important to find a crib that you love because it will be a part of your child for a long period of time. It is also important to choose a crib to fit in with the decor of your home, no matter if it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib will grow with your baby, turning into a toddler bed, and eventually an adult size bed. This will save you money over the long term because you won't have to buy a separate mattress for your child.
Certain convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finish. It also comes with three mattress settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that allows you to easily get your child in and out of it. It is easy to assemble this crib and takes less than 15 minutes to assemble using the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another good alternative. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and is a great purchase. It is an old-fashioned crib that can be converted into the toddler bed or daybed. This crib is easy to put together and its low profile makes it easier for parents to move in and out.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their nursery simple and tidy. This chic crib can be made into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy with environmentally-friendly manufacturing methods. cot bed sales is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy structure and straightforward assembly instructions that result in an easy and painless installation. A stylish design that fits with the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are numerous models of cribs that can be bought at various prices.
For instance, the highly rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, a crib, or a toddler bed. It can also roll and rock to gently rock your baby to sleep or create a gentle incline for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rod add-ons provide the baby with an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can even double as a portable play area providing your child with an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to rest on the go.
Another option that doesn't compromise on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with sustainable materials. The solid Birch and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is sustainably made in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down through siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts that could snag clothing. best crib newborn does not have sharp or rough edges and is easily dressed with sheets.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their contemporary or modern home. Some prefer a more elegant style that is in keeping with the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter you should consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful model transforms from a bassinet into a mini-crib and then a full-size crib without the need for bars or mattresses.
If you're a parent who's not in the mood for fussiness, choose the simpler and cleaner-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to aid your baby's development into an adult. However, they sport a more traditional look in comparison to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.