Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you like. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts and drop-sides, since your child could fall in. Instead, choose a design which can easily be converted into a daybed or toddler.
Safety
We want to give our children the best start in life. This begins with a crib that is safe. You shouldn't use an old crib that might contain a lot of broken or damaged parts, and you definitely do not want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. When buying a crib, make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of a crib should be spaced evenly so that children cannot catch their heads or fingers within the slats. They should not contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other embellishments which could cause injury. The mattress support system, which is essential to the security of your crib, should be able to be adjusted to various heights so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.
It is also recommended to avoid hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains, as these present the risk of strangulation to your child. It is a good idea to examine your crib frequently for missing or loose objects, and replace any that have become dislodged in the course of time.
Some cribs come with the option of a side panel that could be lifted however it won't stay down for long. These are useful for parents who want to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but make sure that you're positioned in a space free of windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If top rated cots are seeking an eco-friendly crib, select one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's important to choose a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low emissions of chemicals. If you want to go even further, look for a crib that is made from sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
If you're planning to work with a minimal or classic design, an attractive crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is a great choice for small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It's also GREENGUARD Certified and has an adjustable lower height mattress. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the best-looking ones we've seen even in a sea of grey!"
The classic high-back crib for babies is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a range of modern colors that match any style. It's heavier than the other cribs we've tried, but it's sturdy 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 more space in the nursery when compared to our other top choices.
It's a great option for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also heavier than the other options and will have to be dismantled to pass through doors that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, such as maple or oak. They can also be made from mahogany, cherry, birch or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and they resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. But be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of the more durable hardwoods because it's less expensive. This can make a crib more vulnerable to dents and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling or climbing. Be aware that a lot of cribs specifically designed for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are a lot of aspects to take into consideration when selecting a crib. You have to consider 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 baby for a long period of time. You also want to choose the crib that fits in with the decor of your home regardless of whether it's traditional or contemporary.
A convertible crib is a great option since it grows with your child into an infant bed, and eventually into a full-size bed. This will save you money over time because you won't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs stand out more 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 finishing. It also has three adjustable mattress height settings and a low profile that makes it simple to get your baby out and in of the crib. It is simple to put together this crib in less than 15 minutes using an electric drill or driver.
Another option that is worth considering is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and is a great purchase. It has a classic design and can be transformed into an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. It is also easy to assemble and has a low profile that allows it to be easily reached into and out of for smaller parents.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent alternative for minimalists who wish to keep their nursery design simple and tidy. This elegant crib can be made into a full-size or toddler 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 is 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 construction and simple assembly instructions. This will make the installation relatively easy. A chic design that complements the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are a variety of cribs available to be bought at various prices.
For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or toddler bed. It also has the ability to roll and rock to gently help your baby sleep or create an easy incline for babies with reflux. The added drape rod and canopy envelop your baby in a cozy like a womb. It can even double as a play yard that can be carried around, giving your child the security and comfort to sleep on the move.
Another option that doesn't sacrifice on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines eco-friendly materials. best crib for newborn and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is manufactured sustainably in Europe and is able to be passed on to children. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and doesn't have drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could snag clothing. It is free of sharp or rough edges and can easily be dressed by sheets.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to match their modern or contemporary home. Others may prefer a more refined design that complements the décor of the room. If you fall into the latter group of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. This beautiful model transforms from a bassinet into an infant crib and then a full-size crib without the need for mattresses or bars.
If you're a parent who isn't in the mood for fussiness, choose the more simple and clean-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the components you require to assist your baby to grow into an adult. However, they sport a more traditional look in comparison to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.