10 Unexpected Best Crib Tips
Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you like. It will be part of your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides, since your child may fall into. Instead, choose an option that is easily converted into a daybed or toddler.
Safety
As parents, we want to give our children the best possible start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. cot sales shouldn't use a crib that has many missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that isn't up to current safety standards. When purchasing a crib ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats on a crib should be positioned so that children cannot catch their heads or fingers within them. They should not contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other embellishments which could result in injuries. The mattress support system, which is vital to the security of your crib, must be adjustable to various levels so that it can grow with your child.
It is also recommended to avoid hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains, as these present an opportunity for strangulation for your child. Examine your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if needed.
Some cribs come with the option of a side panel that could be lifted however it won't stay down for very long. They are great for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but be sure that you're positioned in a room free of windows and radiators and that your baby isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're looking for a crib which is green, you should consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's important to select a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low chemical emissions. If you're looking for something better, choose a crib that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemicals.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to create a classic or minimalist nursery, a chic crib can be a wonderful addition. The SnuzPod4 can be used in tiny spaces since it's slim and sleek. It also has a lower mattress setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib was "up there with the best-looking cribs we've seen, even in a sea grey!"
The classic high-back crib for babies is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a range of modern colors that will match any style. It's heavier than the other cribs we evaluated, but is sturdy enough to last through 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 picks.
It's a great choice for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also more bulkier than our other picks and will have to be disassembled in order to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are usually made of wood such as oak or maple. They can also be made from mahogany, birch or cherry. They are generally more long-lasting than other materials, and are resistant to damage better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that some manufacturers use pine instead of the more durable hardwoods because it's cheaper. This could make the crib more prone to dent and scratches, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to the standard crib is that it usually includes a toddler rail, which will help keep your child safe from falling down and climbing. However, keep in mind that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for added security.
Convertibility
There are a lot of things to think about when choosing the right crib. Consider the size, style, slats, and whether it is convertible. It's important to find a crib you like because it will be with your child for a long time. It is also important to select a crib that will fit in with the decor of your home, whether that be traditional or modern.
A convertible crib will grow with your baby, turning into a toddler bed, and eventually a full size bed. This will save money in the long run because you don't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.
Certain convertible cribs stand out more than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold certified which means it is in compliance with or exceeds government safety standards in design and construction. Additionally, it comes with three height settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it simple to get your baby out and in of the crib. It is also easy to build in less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.
Another option is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great deal. It's a classic style and can be made into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed by the purchase of separate conversion kits. It is also easy to put together and has a low-profile that makes it easy to reach to and out of for smaller parents.
The last crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for those who want to keep their bedroom simple and tidy. This chic crib can be converted into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly manufacturing techniques. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's toxic free mattresses.
Budget
A quality crib is one that has a solid construction and easy assembly instructions. This makes the assembly effortless. A stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are many different cribs available to be bought at various prices.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, is one of the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, a crib or a toddler bed. It can also roll and rock to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies who have reflux. The added canopy and drape rod will encase your child in a warm like a womb. It can even double as a portable play area providing your child with a comfortable and secure place to nap on the go.
Another option that doesn't compromise on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines environmentally friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe to last 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 is easy to dress using a sheet and has no sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a simple crib that matches their modern or contemporary home. Others might prefer a more elegant design that complements the décor of the room. If you're in the latter category of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. This elegant-looking model converts from a bassinet into an infant crib, and then to a full crib all without mattresses or bars, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who doesn't like excessive fussiness, consider a crib that is less cluttered and more clean in appearance. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require to help your baby develop into a toddler, but they're more of a traditional look than some other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.