Choosing the Best Crib

Pick a crib you like. It will be part of your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your baby could fall into, and opt for an option that is easily convertible to a toddler bed, or daybed.

Safety

We want to give our children the best start in life. This starts with a crib that's safe. You don't want to use an old crib that might contain a number of loose or missing parts, and you definitely do not want one that isn't up to current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, be sure to look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is in compliance with the most stringent safety standards.

The crib's slats should be spaced evenly so that children cannot catch their heads or fingers in them. They should not contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other decorations that could result in injury. The mattress support system, which is vital to the safety of your crib, should be adjustable to different 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, since they pose the risk of strangulation to your baby. Examine your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if they are damaged.

Some cribs come with a side panel which can be removed. However it won't be down for long. These are ideal for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but make sure that you're positioned in an area free of windows and radiators and that your child 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 sourced from sustainable forests. You should also choose a crib that has been Greenguard Gold Certified. linked site means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking for something more durable, consider a crib made of sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemical compounds.

Style

No matter if you want to create a minimalist or classic nursery, a stylish crib will be a great option. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim, making it a good option for spaces that are tight. It also comes with 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 best-looking cribs we've ever seen, even among sea grey!"

This classic high-back crib is crafted with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors to match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs that we've tested, but it's durable enough to make it through toddlerhood 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 occupies more square footage in the nursery than our other top cribs.

While a good option for small spaces, its distinctive design can be challenging to find bedding and sheets for. It's also a bit bulkier than our other choices and will probably require dismantling to fit through standard doors when you move from room to the next.

Standard cribs are constructed of wood, such as maple oak, ash mahogany, cherry, or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and can withstand nicks and dings much better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that certain manufacturers use pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable because it's cheaper. This can make a crib susceptible to scratches and dents, which may require more frequent cleaning.

A standard crib will include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling out or climbing. Keep in mind that a lot of cribs specifically designed for toddlers require the purchase of a separate toddler bed rail.

Convertibility

There are many things to consider when choosing the right crib. Think about the size, design, slats and whether it's convertible. It is essential to pick a crib that you like since it will be with your baby for a long time. You also want to choose a crib that is a good fit in with the decor of your home, whether that be modern or traditional.

A convertible crib will grow with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, then an adult size bed. This can save you money in the long run since you don't need to purchase a separate 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. It also has three height settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it easy to get your baby out of the crib. It is simple to put together this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes using the use of a cordless drill/driver.

Another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is an excellent value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic crib that can be transformed 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 final crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for minimalists looking to keep their room simple and tidy. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be outfitted as a toddler bed or full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing techniques. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and is made to be used in conjunction with the brand's toxic-free mattresses.

Budget

A quality crib will have a sturdy structure and easy assembly instructions. This will make the process effortless. A chic design that is in line with your nursery decor is important. Cribs vary in terms of price however there are some models that will fit into any budget.


The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most versatile options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet or crib, or as a toddler bed. It can also gently help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rods will encase your baby in the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can also be used as a portable play space, providing your child with a secure and comfortable space to rest while on the move.

Another option that doesn't sacrifice on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines environmentally friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is produced sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down through siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, which include no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts that could catch clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges, and can easily be dressed with a sheet.

Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to match their contemporary or modern home. Some prefer a more elegant style that matches the decor of the room. If your preference falls into the latter, consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant-looking model converts from a bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full-sized crib, all without mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.

If you are an adult who doesn't enjoy the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is less cluttered and more clean looking. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to help your baby grow into a toddler. They do however have an older-style look when compared to other models such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.