Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key element in your nursery for many years, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy looking at. Avoid cribs that have cutouts and drop-sides as your child may fall into. Instead, opt for a design which can easily be converted to a daybed or toddler.
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 to use an old crib that might have a lot of loose or missing parts, and you don't want one that isn't up to current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The crib's slats should be spaced evenly so that children cannot catch their heads or fingers in the slats. They shouldn't contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other ornaments that could result in injuries. The mattress support system, which is vital to the safety of your crib should be able to be adjusted to various levels so that it can expand with your child.
You'll also want to avoid hanging objects like curtains or blind strings, because they pose a strangulation risk for your baby. Be sure to check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if needed.
Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be lowered. However, it will not stay down for long. These are ideal for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks of bed sharing, but make sure you're in a room away from radiators and windows and that your baby isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're looking for a crib which is environmentally friendly, consider one made from wood from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed the tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you're looking for something more durable, consider 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 is a fantastic option. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim, making it a good fit for tight spaces. It also has a lower mattress setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the most attractive cribs we've seen, even in a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back crib is crafted with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors that will match any style. It's heavier than other cribs we've test, but it's durable enough to last until toddlerhood and beyond. top rated cots 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 square footage in the nursery than some of our other top choices.
It's a great option for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also heavier than our other choices and may require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard in order to move from room space.
Standard cribs are usually made from wood, like maple oak, ash mahogany, cherry, or birch. They are generally longer-lasting than other materials and resist damage better than soft pine. However, be aware that some manufacturers use pine instead of more durable hardwoods since it's less expensive. This could make the crib more prone to dent and scratches which may require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of a standard crib is that it typically comes with a toddler rail which will ensure your child's safety from climbing and falling out. However, be aware that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail for added security.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are numerous things to consider. Take into consideration the size, style, slats and whether it's convertible. It is essential to pick a crib that you like since it will be there for your baby for a long time. You should also select a crib that will fit into your home's decor, whether that be modern or traditional.
A convertible crib can grow with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, and eventually to a full-size bed. This will save you money in the long run since you don't have to buy an additional bed for your child.
Certain convertible cribs stand out more 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 federal safety standards for construction and finishing. Additionally, it comes with three adjustable mattress height settings and an extremely low profile, making it easy to move your baby in and out of the crib. It's easy to put together this crib and takes less than 15 minutes to assemble using an electric drill or driver.
Another good option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and is a great purchase. It's a classic style and can be converted to a toddler 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 for small parents.
The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for minimalists who want to keep their nursery simple and tidy. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be made as a toddler bed or full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing techniques. cot bed sales 's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and specifically designed to work alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A good crib must be built with strength and simple assembly instructions that allow for the installation process being relatively easy. And a design that fits with your nursery decor is also crucial. Cribs vary in terms of price however there are some models that suit every budget.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, 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 rock your baby to slumber or create an easy slope for reflux babies. The added canopy and drape rod will encase your baby in a cozy baby-like womb. It can also double as a portable play area, giving your child an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to rest on the go.
Another option that doesn't skimp on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with eco-friendly materials. The solid wood crib of birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe and can be passed on to children. It meets all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could scratch clothing. It has no sharp or rough edges and can easily be dressed with sheets.
Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their contemporary or modern home. Others might prefer a more elegant design that complements the décor of the room. If you're in the latter category of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a fantastic choice. This stylish model converts from a bassinet to a mini crib and then to a full-sized crib, all without mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you are a parent who isn't a fan of the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is less cluttered and more clean looking. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the pieces you'll need for your baby to develop into an adult, but they're more of a traditional style than other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.