The Best Best Crib Gurus Are Doing Three Things
Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major fixture in your nursery for many years and it's essential to choose a crib you enjoy looking at. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your child could fall 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 starts with a crib that's safe. You don't want an old crib that may contain a number of loose or missing parts, and you don't want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats that comprise the crib should be spaced to stop children from getting their hands or heads in the slats and should not have any cut-outs for decorative purposes or other ornaments that could create a risk. The mattress support system, which is vital to the security of your crib, must be adjustable to various heights so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.
You'll also want to avoid dangling objects such as blind strings or curtains, because they pose the risk of strangulation to your child. Be sure to check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be lifted but it won't be down for very long. These are ideal for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but be sure you're in a space free of windows and radiators and that your baby isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.
If you're looking for a crib which is environmentally friendly, consider one made from wood from sustainable forests. It's important to pick a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go more, consider a crib that's made from sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
If you're planning to work with a minimal or classic style for your nursery, choosing an elegant crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim and is a great option for spaces that are tight. It also has a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, claimed that the crib was "up there with the most attractive cribs we've seen, even among a sea grey!"
This classic high-back crib is made with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors to fit any style. It's heavier than the other cribs that we test, but it's durable enough to last until 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. Baby Cot Cots 4 Tots takes up more space in the nursery as compared to some of our other top choices.
It's a good choice for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also heavier than some of our other choices, and it will likely need to be disassembled to fit through doors that are standard when moving from room to the next.
Standard cribs are made of wood such as maple or oak. They can also be made of mahogany, birch, or cherry. They tend to be more durable than other materials, and are resistant to nicks and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers select pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib more vulnerable to dents and scratches, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to a standard crib is that it usually comes with a toddler rail which can help keep your child safe from falling down and climbing. However, keep in mind that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail for extra safety.
Convertibility
When it comes to selecting a crib, there are many things to consider. Consider the size, style, slats, and if it is convertible. It is crucial to choose the crib you love since it will be with your baby for many years. You also want to choose a crib that will fit to the decor of your home whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib is a fantastic option because it can grow with your child until it becomes a toddler bed and then to a larger bed. This will save you money in the long run because you won't need to buy a mattress for your child.
Some convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finish. It also has 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, which takes less than 15 minutes using the use of a cordless drill/driver.
Another option that is worth considering is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is a great value and is GREENGUARD Gold certified. It is a classic crib that can be converted into an infant bed or a daybed. The crib is simple 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 perfect for minimalists who want to keep their room simple and tidy. This chic crib can be transformed into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used alongside the brand's toxic free mattresses.
Budget
A quality crib is one that has a solid construction, and simple assembly instructions. This makes the assembly painless. A stylish design that is compatible with the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs are available in terms of price however there are some models that are suitable for every budget.
For instance, the highly rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet or crib, or as a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle slope for reflux babies. The add-on canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a comfortable like a womb. It can even double as a portable play yard and provide your child with the security and comfort to nap on the go.
Another option that doesn't skimp on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with sustainable materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe and can be passed down to siblings. It meets all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could catch clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges, and can easily be dressed by a sheet.
Some parents might prefer an uncluttered crib that complements their modern or contemporary home, while others might prefer a more stately design that is suited to the room's decor. If you're in the latter group of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. The elegantly designed model can be converted from bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full crib all without adding bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who isn't a fan of fussiness, choose a crib that is less cluttered and more clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to help your baby 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.