Choosing the Best Crib

Choose a crib that you love. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your little one might 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 start in life, and that starts with a safe crib. You don't need to use cribs that have a lot loose or missing pieces or is one that isn't up to the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.

The slats of a crib should be positioned to ensure that children don't get their heads or fingers within the slats. They shouldn't include any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could result in injuries. The mattress support system, which is vital to the safety of your crib, must be adjustable to various heights to allow it to expand with your child.

Avoid hanging items like curtains or blinds, because they could strangle your baby cot online. Be sure to check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if they are damaged.

Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be removed but it won't be down for very long. They are ideal for parents who don't want to share the bed. Just make sure you keep your crib away from radiators and windows.

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

Style

If you're looking to design an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib can be a wonderful option. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek and is a great option for spaces that are tight. It also has a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our test subjects, Mother & baby cots online 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!"

The classic high-back crib for babies is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs we've examined, but it's strong enough to last 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 square footage in the nursery than some of our other top cribs.

While it's a great option for small spaces, its unique design can be difficult to find bedding and sheets for. It's also bulkier than the other options and will need to be dismantled to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.

Standard cribs are usually constructed from wood, including maple, oak, ash, cherry, mahogany, or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and resist damage and nicks much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers opt for pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This can make the crib more susceptible to dent and scratches which may require more frequent cleaning.

A standard crib will include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling out or climbing. However, Baby Crib be aware that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail to ensure security.

Convertibility

When it comes to choosing a crib, there are numerous things to consider. It is important to think about the size, style, and slat style and whether it's convertible or not. It's important to find a crib that you love, as it will be with your baby for a long time. You should also choose a crib to fit in with the style of your home, no matter if it's traditional or modern.

A convertible crib will grow with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, then to a full-size bed. This will 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. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It is GREENGUARD gold certified which means it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for the construction and finish. It also has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and a low profile that makes it easy to move your baby out of the crib. The crib is also easy to build, taking less than 15 minutes using a cordless drill/driver.

The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another great alternative. This crib is a great 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 by the purchase of separate conversion kits. It is also easy to assemble and has a low profile that makes it easy to reach into and out of for short parents.

The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for minimalists who want to keep their room simple and tidy. This stylish crib can be transformed into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and uses environmentally conscious production methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and specifically designed to work together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.

Budget

A quality crib will have a sturdy construction, and simple assembly instructions. This will make the process effortless. A stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs can run the gamut in terms of price however there are some models that suit every budget.

The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet or crib, or as a toddler bed. It can also gently help your baby sleep or create an easy slope for reflux babies. The add-on canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a comfortable baby-like womb. It can also be used as a portable play space and provides your child with a secure and comfortable space to rest when they are on the move.

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 produced sustainably in Europe and is able to be passed on to siblings. It meets all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could catch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and is free of sharp edges.

Some parents prefer a minimalist crib to match their modern or contemporary home. Others might prefer a more elegant design that complements the decor of the room. If your preference falls into the latter category look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This stylish model converts from bassinet to mini cribs and later to a full-sized crib, all without the need for bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.

If you're a parent who's not into fussiness, opt for the less cluttered and more elegant cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the components you require to help your baby grow into an adult. They do however have an older-style look when compared to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.