Choosing the Best Crib
Choose a crib that you like. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your little one could get into, and opt for a design that is easily convertible to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
As parents are, we'd like to give our children the best possible start in life, and that starts with a safe crib. It's not necessary to have a crib that has many missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that isn't in line with the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib make sure it has the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats on a crib should be positioned so that children cannot catch their fingers or heads in them. They should not include any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could result in injury. A mattress support system is also essential to ensure the safety of your crib, and it should be able to adjust to different heights to accommodate your child as they grow.
Avoid hanging objects such as blind strings or curtains, as they can strangle your baby. It's a good idea examine your crib frequently for any missing or loose items, and replace them if they are missing or that have become dislodged over time.
Some cribs have a side panel which can be moved down. However it won't be down for very long. They are great for parents who wish to co-sleep, but without the dangers of bed-sharing, but be sure that you're positioned in a room free of windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.
If you're seeking a crib that is green, you should consider one made from wood from sustainable forests. You should also consider one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed the tests to ensure that there are no emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to go even further, look for a crib made of sustainably harvested New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.
Style
Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to create a classic or minimalist nursery, a stylish crib will be a great addition. The SnuzPod4 is a great choice for small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It's GREENGUARD Certified and has the option of a lower-height mattress. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, stated that the crib was "up among the most beautiful cribs we've ever seen, even in a sea grey!"
This classic high-back crib is made with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors to match any aesthetic. It's heavier than the other cribs we've tried, but it's sturdy enough to last 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 some of our other top choices.
It's a great option for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also heavier than our other choices and will require to be dismantled to fit through doorways that are standard when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are usually constructed from wood, such as maple or oak. They can also be made of cherry, mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and can withstand scratches and dings better than soft pine. But be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable because it's less expensive. This could make a crib more vulnerable to dents and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling out or climbing. Remember, however, that many cribs designed for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
There are a lot of aspects to take into consideration when selecting a crib. Think about the size, design, slats and whether it is convertible. It is essential to pick the crib you love since it will be with your baby for many years. You should also choose a crib to fit in with the style of your home, whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib is an excellent option because it can grow with your child into an infant bed, and eventually into a full-size bed. This will save you money in the end because you won't need to buy a separate mattress for your child.
There are many different convertible cribs available, but some stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It is GREENGUARD gold certified which means it meets or exceeds the safety standards of the government in terms of the construction and finish. It also comes with three mattress settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it easier to get your child in and out of it. It is also simple to assemble and can be assembled in less than 15 minutes using the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is also a great alternative. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold certified. It has a classic design and can be made into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. It is also easy to put together and has a low profile that allows it to be easily reached into and out for small parents.
cheap cot beds on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their bedroom simple and tidy. It's a stylish and inexpensive crib that can be transformed to become an adult bed or a full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly production methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and is designed to be used together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.
Budget
A quality crib will have a sturdy construction and easy assembly instructions. This will make the process easy. A stylish design that matches your nursery decor 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 versatile options that are available. It can be set up as a bassinet crib or a toddler bed. It can also roll and rock to gently help your baby sleep or create an easy incline for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a cozy baby-like womb. It can also be used as a portable play space and provides your child with a safe and comfortable place to nap when moving around.
Another option that doesn't skimp on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with environmentally friendly materials. The solid wood crib of birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe and is able to be passed on to siblings. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could scratch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and does not have sharp edges.
Some parents prefer a simple crib that matches their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more refined design that matches the interior decor of the room. If you're in the latter category of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This elegant-looking model converts from a bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full crib, all without the need for bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who isn't a fan of fussiness, choose a crib that is more simple and clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the pieces you'll need to allow your baby to grow into a toddler, but they have a more traditional style than other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.