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Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key feature in your nursery for years, so it's important to pick one you love seeing. Avoid cribs beds with cutouts or drop-sides that your baby might get into, and select an option that is easily convertible to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
As parents as parents, we want to provide our children the best possible start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You shouldn't use an old crib that could contain a lot of broken or missing parts, and you certainly don't want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. When buying a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats that comprise the crib must be spaced to stop children from getting their hands or heads in the slats and should not have any decorative cutouts or other embellishments which could cause injury risk. A mattress support system is also vital to the crib's safety and should be adjustable to different heights to accommodate your baby as they grow.
Avoid hanging items like curtains or blinds since they could strangle your baby. It's a good idea check your crib regularly for loose or missing objects, and replace any that have become dislodged over time.
Some cribs have a side panel that can be lowered however it won't stay down for long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share with their children. Just make sure you put your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you are seeking an eco-friendly crib, select one made of sustainable forests. It's recommended to select a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low chemical emissions. If you're looking for something even 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
Whether you're working with a minimal or classic style for your nursery, choosing an attractive crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim and is a great fit for tight spaces. It also has a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib sets was "up there with the best cot newborn-looking cribs we've ever seen even among a sea grey!"
This classic high-back crib has been constructed with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors that will match any style. It's heavier than the other cribs that we test, but it's durable enough to last through the toddler years 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 than our other top picks.
While a good option for smaller spaces, its unique design can be challenging to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also bulkier than our other picks and will need to be disassembled in order to pass through doors that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are constructed of wood, like maple or 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 make use of pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable because it's cheaper. This could make the crib more vulnerable to scratches and dent, which could require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to the standard crib is that it usually comes with a toddler rail which will ensure your child's safety from falling off and climbing. However, be aware that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail for extra security.
Convertibility
When it comes to selecting a crib, there are many factors to consider. You have to consider the size, style and slat style, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It is essential to choose a crib you like because it will be a part of your child for a long period of time. 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 will expand 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 a separate mattress for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs available however, certain models stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified, which means it meets or surpasses government safety standards in the construction and finish. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings as well as a low-profile that allows you to easily get your child in and out of it. The crib is also easy to put together, taking 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 a great value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic design and can be converted to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. This crib is also simple to assemble and has a low profile that allows it to be easily reached in and out for small parents.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent alternative for minimalists who wish to keep their nursery designs simple and clean. This elegant crib can be converted into a full-size or toddler bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and uses environmentally conscious production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A quality crib must be built with strength and simple assembly instructions that allow for the installation process being relatively easy. And a stylish design that is compatible with the decor of your nursery is important. There are a variety of crib models that can be purchased at different prices.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, is one of the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet crib or as a toddler bed. It can also be used to gently rock your baby to slumber or create a gentle slope for reflux babies. The add-on canopy and drape rod will encase your baby in a comfortable like a womb. It can also serve as a portable play area that provides your child with a safe and comfortable place to nap when traveling.
Another option that doesn't skimp on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with sustainable materials. The solid wood crib of birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is manufactured sustainably in Europe and is able to be passed on to siblings. It meets all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could catch clothing. It has no sharp or rough edges and can easily be dressed by sheets.
Some parents prefer a minimalist crib that matches their contemporary or modern home. Others might prefer a more refined design that complements the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter category look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant-looking model converts from bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full crib all without the need cot for sale 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 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the parts you need to allow your baby to develop into 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.