Choosing the Best Crib

A crib will be a major fixture in your nursery for many years, so it's important to pick one you love seeing. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your child might get into, and opt for an option that is able to be converted into a toddler bed or daybed.

Safety

We want to give our children the best start in life. This begins with a crib that is safe. It's not necessary to have cribs that have many missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that isn't in line with current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, be sure to look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it meets the most important safety requirements.

The crib's slats should be positioned so that children cannot catch their fingers or heads in the slats. They shouldn't contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other decorations that could result in injury. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the safety of your crib must be adjustable to various levels so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.

It is also recommended to avoid hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains since they pose a strangulation risk for your child. Be sure to check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if needed.

Some cribs come with a side panel that can be lifted, but it won't stay down for long. They are ideal for parents who do not want to share with their children. Make sure to keep your crib away from windows and radiators.

If you are looking for an environmentally friendly crib, choose one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's recommended to pick a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking for something even better, choose a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA and BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemicals.

Style

Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to create a minimalist or classic nursery, a stylish crib will be a great option. The SnuzPod4 fits well in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It also has a lower mattress setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our test participants, Mother & Baby Cot Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most beautiful cribs we've seen even in a sea of grey!"

This classic high-back crib is made using solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors to match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs we've tested, but it's durable enough to make it through toddler-graduation 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 some of 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 more bulkier than our other picks and will require to be disassembled in order to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.

Standard cribs are constructed of wood, like maple or oak, ash, cherry, mahogany, or birch. They are typically more durable than other materials and can withstand nicks and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers choose pine over hardwoods that are more durable to save money. 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 cots to tots keep your child from falling out or climbing. However, keep in mind that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for added safety.

Convertibility

There are many aspects to take into consideration when selecting a crib. Consider the size, style, slats and whether it is convertible. It is crucial to choose a crib that you love because it will be with your baby for a long time. It is also important to select a crib that will fit in with the decor of your home regardless of whether it's traditional or contemporary.

A convertible crib is a fantastic option because it can grow with your child until it becomes a toddler bed, and later a full-size bed. This can save you money in the long run because you don't have to buy a separate bed for your child.

There are numerous convertible cribs available however, some stand out more than others. One example is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold certified that means it meets or exceeds the safety standards of the government in terms of the construction and finish. It also has three mattress settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it easier to get your child in and out of it. This crib is also relatively simple to assemble and can be assembled in less than 15 minutes with an electric drill or driver.

Another option is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is a good value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic crib that can be converted into a toddler bed or daybed. This crib is easy to put together, and its low profile makes it easy for parents to get in and out.

The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for minimalists looking to keep their room simple and tidy. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be transformed to become a toddler bed or full-size bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy using eco-friendly production methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's toxic free mattresses.

Budget

A good crib should have sturdy construction and easy assembly instructions that allow for the installation process being relatively easy. A stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs vary in terms of cost however there are some models that are suitable for every budget.

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 gently help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for babies who are reflux. The canopy and drape rods will encase your baby in an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can also be used as a portable play area and provides your child with a safe and comfortable spot to sleep when they are moving around.

Another option that doesn't sacrifice on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with sustainable materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is manufactured sustainably in Europe and can be passed on to children. It meets all CPSC standards and has no drop-sides, decorative cutouts or sharp edges that could scratch clothing. It is easy to dress using a sheet and has no sharp edges.

Some parents might prefer an uncluttered crib that complements their contemporary or modern home, while others may prefer a more stately design that suits the room's decor. If your preference falls into the latter category you should consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant-looking model converts from a bassinet into 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're a parent who's not interested in fussiness, go for the more simple and clean-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the pieces you need to help your baby cots online grow into a toddler. However, they sport a more traditional look as compared to other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.