Choosing good cribs will be a major fixture in your nursery for years, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy looking at. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your child could get into, and select an option that is able to be converted 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 is safe. You don't need to use a crib that has lots of missing or loose pieces or is one that isn't in line with current safety standards. When buying a crib, make sure it has the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats of a crib must be closely spaced to ensure that children don't get their heads or fingers within the slats. They should also not have any decorative cutouts or other embellishments which could cause injuries. A mattress support system is vital to the crib's safety, and it should be able to adjust to different heights to accommodate your baby as they develop.
It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects like curtains or blind strings, because they pose a strangulation risk for your child. Be sure to check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if they are damaged.
Some cribs have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, but it won't stay down for long. These are great for parents who don't want to share a bed. Just make sure you place your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're seeking a crib that is eco-friendly, think about one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. It's important to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go further, look for a crib that is made from sustainably sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
If you're going for a classic or minimalist style for your nursery, choosing a stylish crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek which makes it a perfect choice for small spaces. It's GREENGUARD Certified and has the option of a lower-height mattress. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, claimed that the crib was "up there with the best-looking cribs we've ever seen even among sea grey!"
This classic high-back crib has been constructed from solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors to match any aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs that we've examined, but it's strong enough to last through toddler-graduation 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 as compared to our other top choices.
It's a great choice for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also bulkier than the other options and will require to be disassembled to pass through doors that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are typically made of wood such as maple or oak. They can also be made of mahogany, cherry, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and they resist nicks and dings much 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 can make the crib more susceptible to dent and scratches, which could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to keep your child from falling or climbing. Remember, however, that many cribs for toddlers require you to buy a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are a lot of things to think about when choosing the right crib. You have to consider the size, style and slat style and whether it's convertible or not. It is essential to pick the crib you love since it will be with your baby for many years. You should also choose the crib that will go with the decor of your home, whether it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib will expand with your baby, turning into a toddler bed, then a full size bed. This will save you money in the long run since you don't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
Some convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finishing. In addition, it has three adjustable mattress height settings and an extremely low profile, making it easy to get your baby out and in of the crib. The crib is also simple to assemble in less than 15 minutes using a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a excellent alternative. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and is a great purchase. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into an infant bed or a daybed. cot sets is also easy to assemble and has a low-profile that makes it easy to reach into and out of for short parents.
The last crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great alternative for minimalists who wish to keep their nursery design simple and tidy. It's a stylish, affordable crib that can be made into an adult bed or a full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy with environmentally-friendly manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's toxic free mattresses.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy construction and easy assembly instructions. This makes the assembly painless. A chic design that complements the decor of your nursery is essential. There are numerous models of cribs that can be purchased at different prices.
For instance, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most adaptable options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet crib or a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy slope for babies who are reflux. The canopy and drape rod add-ons will encase your baby in the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can also serve as a portable play space that provides your child with a safe and comfortable place to nap when they are traveling.
Another option that doesn't compromise on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with environmentally friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, which include no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and is free of sharp edges.
Some parents may want a minimal crib to complement their contemporary or modern home, whereas others may prefer a more formal design that complements the decor of the room. If you fall in the latter category, consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. The elegantly designed model can be converted from bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full crib, all without adding mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent that isn't into fussiness, opt for the more simple and clean-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the components you require for your baby to become an adult, but they have more of a traditional look than some other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.