Why Best Crib Could Be Your Next Big Obsession
Choosing the Best Crib
Pick a crib you like. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid tots and cots with cutouts, or drop-sides that your baby could get into, and select 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 begins with a crib that's safe. You don't need to use cribs that have lots of missing or loose pieces or is one that isn't in line with the current safety standards. If you're buying a new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it is up to the highest safety standards.
The slats in a crib should be tightly spaced so that children aren't falling or catching their heads in the slats and also they shouldn't contain any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could pose an injury risk. A mattress support system is also essential to ensure the safety of your crib and should be able to adjust to different sizes to accommodate your child as they develop.
Avoid hanging items like curtains or blinds, since they could strangle your baby. It's a good idea to check your crib regularly for missing or loose items, and replace them if they are missing or that have become dislodged over time.
Some cribs come with the option of a side panel that could be removed, but it won't stay in place for long. They are great for parents who want to co-sleep without the risks of bed sharing, but make certain that you're in a space away from radiators and windows 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 of 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 want to go even more, consider a crib that is made from sustainably sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
Whether you're working with a classic or minimalist design, a stylish crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 fits well in tiny spaces since it's slim and sleek. It's GREENGUARD Certified and comes with the option of a lower-height mattress. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib was "up there with the most attractive cribs we've ever seen, even among sea grey!"
The classic high-back crib for babies is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a range of modern colors that will match any style. It's heavier than the other cribs we've evaluated, but is 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 takes more space in the nursery when compared to other top picks.
It's a good choice for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also more bulkier than our other choices and will need 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 mahogany, birch or cherry. They are generally more durable than other materials and can withstand scratches and dings better than soft pine. However, be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of the more durable hardwoods because it's cheaper. This could make the crib more susceptible to scratches and dent, which may require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling or climbing. But keep in mind that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for extra security.
Convertibility
There are many things to consider when choosing a crib. Consider the size, style, slats, and if it's convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib you like because it will be a part of your child for a long time. It is also important to choose the crib that is compatible with the style of your home, regardless of whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib will expand with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, then to a full-size bed. This can save you money in the long run since you don't have to buy an additional bed for your child.
There are many different convertible cribs on the market However, certain models 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 surpasses federal safety standards for design and construction. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings and a low-profile that allows you to easily take your child into and out of it. This crib is also relatively easy to put together in less than 15 minutes with a cordless drill/driver.
The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is a great option. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and a great buy. It has a classic design and can be made into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is simple to assemble, 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 ideal for those who want to keep their bedroom simple and tidy. This chic crib can be converted into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. This crib was built in Italy with environmentally-friendly manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxic substances.
Budget
A good crib will have a sturdy construction and easy assembly instructions. This will make the process effortless. And a stylish design that matches your nursery decor is also important. There are numerous cribs available to be bought at various prices.
For instance, the highly rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib, or a toddler bed. It can also rock and roll to gently help your baby sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies who have reflux. The add-on canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a comfortable womb-like environment. It can also be used as a portable play area that provides your child with a safe and comfortable spot to sleep when on the move.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice style. It blends a modern design with sustainable materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is sustainably made in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down from siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts that could snag clothing. It has no sharp or rough edges and can easily be dressed with sheets.
Some parents might prefer a minimal crib to complement their modern or contemporary home, while others may prefer a more formal style that complements the decor of the room. If you fall into the latter category look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This stylish model can be converted from a bassinet into an infant crib and then a full-size crib with no need for bars or mattresses.
If you're a parent who doesn't like excessive fussiness, consider a crib that is simpler and cleaner visually. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to aid your baby's development into a toddler. They do however have an older-style look when as compared to other models, such as the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.