Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a major element in your nursery for a long time, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy admiring. Avoid cribs with cutouts and drop-sides as your child might fall in. Instead, pick an option that can easily be converted to a daybed or toddler.
Safety
As parents, we want to give our children the best possible start in life, and that begins with a safe crib. You shouldn't use cribs that have lots of missing or loose pieces and you shouldn't choose one that isn't up to the current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, be sure to look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it is in compliance with the most stringent safety requirements.
The slats that comprise the crib must be spaced so that children aren't falling or catching their heads in the slats, and they shouldn't have any decorative cut outs or other decorations that could create a risk. A mattress support system is vital to the crib's safety, and it should be capable of adjusting to various heights to accommodate your baby as they grow.
You'll also want to avoid hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains because they pose a strangulation risk for your infant. Be sure to check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if needed.
Some cribs come with an additional side panel that can be removed. However it won't be down for very 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're seeking a crib that is environmentally friendly, consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's important to choose a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low emissions of chemicals. If you're looking to buy something superior, select a crib that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA, BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemical compounds.
Style
No matter if you want to design a classic or minimalist nursery, a chic crib is a fantastic addition. The SnuzPod4 is a great choice for smaller spaces due to its slim and sleek. It's also GREENGUARD Certified and has a lower height mattress setting. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with some of the most beautiful cribs we've seen even in the midst of grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety modern colors that will match any aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than the other cribs 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 than some of our other top choices.
While it's a great choice for small spaces, its distinctive design may be difficult to find bedding and sheets for. It's also bulkier than the other options and will have to be disassembled in order to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.
Standard cribs are usually constructed of wood, like maple or oak, ash, cherry, mahogany, or birch. They are generally more durable than other materials, and are resistant to scratches and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers choose pine over hardwoods that are more durable to save money. This can make a crib susceptible to scratches and dents and could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling or climbing. However, keep in mind that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail to ensure security.
Convertibility
There are numerous things to consider when choosing a crib. Consider the size, style, slats and whether it's convertible. It is essential to pick a crib you love as it will be there for your baby for a long time. You should also select a crib that is a good fit in with the decor of your home whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib can grow with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, then an adult size bed. This can save you money over time because you won't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.
Certain convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it meets or exceeds government safety standards for construction and finishing. In addition, it has three height settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it easy to move your baby in and out of the crib. It is also easy to build, taking less than 15 minutes using an electric drill or driver.
Another good option is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and a great buy. It's a classic style and can be converted to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. This crib is easy to assemble, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to move in and out.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is an excellent option for minimalists who want to keep their nursery decor simple and tidy. This stylish crib can be transformed into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly production methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and is made to be used in conjunction together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.
Budget
A quality crib will have a sturdy structure and easy assembly instructions that result in relatively frustration-free installation. A stylish design that matches your nursery decor is important. Cribs can run the gamut in terms of price however there are some models that suit every budget.
For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most adaptable options 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 an easy slope for babies who are reflux. The drape rod and canopy envelop your baby in a cozy womb-like environment. It could also serve as a portable play area, giving your child the security and comfort to sleep on the move.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that doesn't sacrifice style. It combines a modern design with eco-friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could snag clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges, and can easily be dressed by sheets.
Some parents prefer a simple crib that matches their modern or contemporary home. Some prefer a more elegant style that matches the décor of the room. If you fall into the latter category look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. best crib for newborn from a bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full-sized crib, all without adding 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 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the pieces you'll need for your baby to grow into an adult, but they're 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.