Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery

Cribs provide a dedicated baby's sleeping space to lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It also promotes a consistent sleep routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, like bassinets.

If you decide to go with a modern design or a more traditional design ensure that it's GreenGuard Gold certified to ensure it is in compliance with the highest safety standards and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Consider other options to choose the crib that's right for your family.

1. Safety

As a parent to a child, the safety of your baby is your top concern. You want your baby to sleep peacefully in a secure environment, free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. Choose a crib that meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.

There are many things to look for in a mattress, such as slat spacing which is no wider than 2 3/8 inches to ensure your baby's legs or arms do not get caught. Also you should look for a mattress that has a firm, snug fit and no drop sides sturdy cribs that aren't wobbling and clear instructions for assembly. You should also avoid bells and whistles, such as bumper streams or pads, as they could pose a strangulation risk for your baby.

Find cribs that are painted with low-VOC paint, which is a safer alternative than traditional glues or varnishes which emit harmful chemicals. Find mattresses made of organic foam and cotton.

Finally, pick a crib free of decorative ornaments and cutouts that could be a risk of injury in the event that your child is able to grab them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover is securely attached to the frame of the crib, and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. It is also recommended to avoid placing pillows, quilts, comforters and sheepskins, as well as pillow-like stuffed toys in the crib, because they can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles are also dangerous, as they could fall towards the baby and cause them to collapse. Ideally, you should avoid using a mobile at all costs and opt for a breathable mesh crib mobile instead. This is healthier for the health of your baby and lets you supervise them as they sleep.

2. Convenience

A secure space for your baby's sleep is one of the most essential things you will need. cheap cot beds are a great place for your baby's sleep particularly when you are busy with other household chores.

You'll probably find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These establishments must adhere to strict guidelines laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal place to begin your search for a high-quality crib. If you're planning to purchase a crib for your home, there are a few factors to take into consideration prior to purchasing.


Cribs are a great option for infants, newborns and toddlers, providing an incredibly comfortable bed that lasts well beyond their first few years of existence. Many cribs have convertible features which allow you to transform the crib into the size of a toddler bed or full-sized bed. This can save you money on your purchase and extend the life of your crib.

The compact size of cribs makes them perfect for smaller spaces like lofts or apartments. Some cribs also have a changing station that is a great option when you have a small space in your nursery.

Travel cribs are also light and foldable, making them easy to move. This makes them an ideal option for traveling with your child, or when visiting friends and family because you can easily take the crib down in just a few minutes prior to leaving. The lightweight construction can also make for a less sturdy crib than standard models. This might be a concern to some parents.

3. Style

If you're looking for a crib that can stand out in a room, look for a model with unique styling. You can find a crib with a minimalist, sleek design or constructed from materials like glass or bamboo. It may also have clear sides to allow for easy observation. These are often more expensive than solid wood versions however, they can make an attractive accent to any nursery.

Some cribs feature a more traditional design with elegant curves, moldings and a look that is reminiscent of antique pieces. They can also be quite elaborate and are typically handcrafted with gorgeous details. These are excellent options when you're looking for the perfect crib that will be a family heirloom over time. They can also go well with any design.

A Scandinavian crib is a different popular design. It has smooth, straight lines with an ethereal, bare-wood look. This lets the natural beauty the wood to shine through. These cribs are great for modern or contemporary nursery. You can paint them or leave the wood unfinished to match your decor.

Cribs that have the functionality of a changing table could make it much easier to change your baby, particularly when they're younger and aren't able to sit on their own. These cribs have drawers that can be used to store diapers, wipes and other essentials.

Some cribs have curves or designs that can be used as an umbrella. These can add a touch elegance to any nursery and keep your baby comfortable and cool as they sleep. However, be sure that the fabric you choose to use isn't too long or that it is securely attached to the crib. This will ensure that your child isn't able to reach out and grasp the fabric and pull it back.

4. Convertibility

A crib that can convert into a toddler's bed, a daybed or a full-size bed is a great option for any family. This feature allows you to save money by not having to purchase four separate beds as your child grows, and also frees up space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs also come with conversion kits that store easily, making them simple to set up and use when the time comes.

Another important thing to consider when shopping for a crib is that many cribs come with additional features, such as adjustable mattress heights or drawers. This allows you to customize your crib's look and functionality. It is especially useful if your nursery has limited storage space. Some cribs have wheels that are extremely useful in case you need to move the bed around for cleaning or for any other reason.

Convertible cribs typically are made from sturdy non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the rigorous safety standards established by CPSC and ASTM. Many models have an elegant or contemporary design that can be adapted to the various styles of nursery decor. Some cribs are constructed from wood and others are made from metal or painted steel. Certain brands are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly cribs made from GREENGUARD certified wood. This ensures that harmful chemicals are not absorbed into the environment.

It will take some time and research to choose the most suitable convertible crib for your nursery. However, it is an investment that will last for many years to come. Take your time when evaluating your options and make sure you look at prices, delivery costs, time to set up, among other things to make the best choice for your family.

5. Value

The crib is a huge piece of furniture that can have a significant impact on the design and feel of your baby's nursery. It is essential to choose a crib that fits your style or will go perfectly with your decor. This can make a significant impact on how you feel about your nursery.

As your child ages cribs that are designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds will continue to be useful and provide you with an advantage over time. They are also less costly than a full-size bed and can be given or sold to a relative after your child no longer has need.

Convertible cribs can be easily maintained, as most components can be removed and cleaned, and some come with a conversion set that makes it easy to transform them into the perfect size bed for your child. Wood cribs can withstand a lot of use and are durable. Some even last many children.

Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring alternatives and can be easier to move around when changing sheets or adjusting the mattress height. However, cheap cot beds may be more worn out and require a replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.

Hybrid crib mattresses (also called dual firm) are designed to be used from the beginning to toddlerhood, having the soft side for infants, and a firmer side for toddlers. They are typically safer than foam mattresses, and can be more comfortable to older children who don't like the sagging feel of foam. They're also generally cheaper than innerspring alternatives.