It's The One Best Crib Trick Every Person Should Know
Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you love. It will be in your nursery for many years. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your little one could get into, and select an option that is easily convertible into a toddler bed or daybed.
Safety
We want to give our children the best possible start in life. This begins with a crib that is safe. You shouldn't use an old crib that may have a lot of loose or missing parts, and you don't want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The slats in the crib must be spaced so that children aren't catching their fingers or head in the slats and should not have any decorative cut outs or other decorations that could create a risk. The mattress support system, which is essential to the safety of your crib, should be able to be adjusted to various levels so that it can expand with your child.
Avoid hanging objects such as curtains or blinds, since they could strangle your baby. It's a good idea check your crib regularly for any missing or loose items, and replace any that are loosened over time.
Some cribs have a side panel that can be removed however it won't stay down for very long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share with their children. Be sure to keep your crib away from radiators and windows.
If you're looking for a crib that is green, you should consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's also a good idea to select a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to buy something more durable, consider a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA, BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemical compounds.
Style
If you're looking to create an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib is a fantastic option. The SnuzPod4 is a great choice for smaller spaces due to its slim and sleek. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our test subjects, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most attractive cribs we've seen even in a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back crib has been constructed with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of modern colors that will match any style. 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 takes up more space in the nursery as compared to other top picks.
It's a good choice for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also a bit heavier than some of our other choices and may require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard when moving from room to the next.
Standard cribs are usually constructed of wood, like maple, oak, ash, mahogany, cherry or birch. They tend to be more long-lasting than other materials, and are resistant to nicks and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over more durable hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib more susceptible to damage and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.
Another benefit of a standard crib is that it usually includes a toddler rail, which will help to keep your child safe from falling off and climbing. But keep in mind that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for extra safety.
Convertibility
When you are deciding on a crib, there are a lot of factors to consider. You must consider the size, style and slat style and if it's convertible or not. It is essential to pick a crib you love as it will be with your baby for a long time. You also want to choose a crib that is a good 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 then to a full-size bed. This will save you money over the long term because you won't have to purchase a mattress for your child.
Certain convertible cribs are more distinctive 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 mattress settings that can be adjusted and a low-profile design that allows you to easily take your child into and out of it. It is easy to assemble this crib and takes less than 15 minutes to assemble using the use of a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is also a great option. mini cotbed is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great buy. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into a toddler bed or daybed. This crib is easy to put together and its low profile makes it easier for parents to get in and out.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery decor simple and simple. This elegant crib can be made into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was built in Italy with environmentally-friendly production methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and is specifically designed to work together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.
Budget
A crib that is of good quality must be built with strength and simple assembly instructions that result in the installation process being relatively easy. And a stylish design that is compatible with the decor of your nursery is essential. There are numerous crib models that can be bought at various prices.
The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options that are available. It can be used as a bassinet or crib or a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to help your baby sleep or create an easy slope for reflux babies. The canopy and drape rods envelop the baby in a cozy, womb-like atmosphere. It could also serve as a play yard that can be carried around and provide your child with the security and comfort to nap on the go.
Another option that doesn't compromise on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is sustainably made in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, which include no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts that could catch clothing. It has no rough or sharp edges, and is easily dressed by a sheet.
Some parents may want an uncluttered crib that complements their modern or contemporary home, while others might prefer a more formal design that suits the room's decor. If your preference falls into the latter you should consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant-looking model converts from bassinet to a mini crib and then to a full crib, all without mattresses or bars, so you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you're a parent who isn't a fan of the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is simpler and cleaner in appearance. 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 look than some other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.