A crib will be a major fixture in your nursery for years, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy admiring. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your little one could fall into, and opt for an option that is easily convertible to 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. It's not necessary to have an infant crib with many missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that doesn't meet the current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it is up to the highest safety requirements.
The slats that comprise the crib must be spaced so that children aren't getting their hands or heads in the slats, and they shouldn't have any decorative cut outs or other embellishments that could pose an injury risk. The mattress support system, which is vital to the security of your crib, should be able to be adjusted to various heights so that it can grow with your child.
It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects like curtains or blind strings, because they pose an opportunity for strangulation for your child. It's a good idea inspect your crib on a regular basis for loose or missing objects, and replace any that have become dislodged in the course of time.
Some cribs have a side panel that can be lowered. However, it will not stay down for long. These are great for parents who don't want to share a bed. Make sure to place your crib away from windows and radiators.
If you're looking for a crib which is environmentally friendly, consider one made from wood from sustainable forests. You should also choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking for something even better, choose a crib that is made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA, BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemicals.
Style
Whether you're working with an elegant or minimalist style for your nursery, choosing an elegant crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim, making it a good option for spaces that are tight. It is also GREENGUARD Certified and comes with a lower height mattress setting. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, claimed that the crib was "up there with the best-looking cribs we've ever seen, even among a sea grey!"
This classic high-back crib is made with solid New Zealand pinewood and comes in a variety of contemporary colors to fit any style. It's a bit heavier than 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 more space in the nursery compared to other top picks.
It's a good choice for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also a bit bulkier than some of our other choices and will probably require dismantling in order to fit through standard doors when moving from room to space.
Standard cribs are constructed of wood, such as maple or oak, ash, cherry, mahogany or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and can withstand damage and nicks much better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers choose pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This could make a crib more vulnerable to dents and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.
Another plus to the standard crib is that it usually includes a toddler rail, which will help to keep your child safe from falling off and climbing. Keep in mind, however, that many cribs for toddlers will require the purchase of an additional toddler bed rail.
Convertibility
When it comes to choosing a crib, there are many things to consider. Think about the size, design, slats, and if it is convertible. It's important to find a crib that you love, Cots4Tots.Co.Uk as it will be with your baby for a long time. It is also important to choose the crib that is compatible with the decor of your home, regardless of whether it's contemporary or traditional.
A convertible crib is a great choice because it will grow with your child until it becomes a toddler bed, and later into a full-size bed. This will save money in the long run since you don't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
Certain convertible cribs stand out more than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It is GREENGUARD gold certified which means it meets or exceeds government safety standards in design and construction. Additionally, it comes with three adjustable mattress height settings and a low profile that makes it easy to move your baby out and in of the crib. It is also easy to put together, taking less than 15 minutes using a cordless drill/driver.
Another good option is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is GREENGUARD Certified Gold and a great buy. It is a classic design and can be transformed into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed by the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is easy to put together, 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 ideal for minimalists who want to keep their bedroom simple and clean. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be outfitted as a full-size toddler bed or bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was made in Italy using environmentally friendly manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's non-toxic mattresses.
Budget
A quality crib should have sturdy construction and simple assembly instructions that lead to relatively frustration-free installation. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is essential. Cribs vary in terms of price, but there are models that suit every budget.
For instance, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet crib or as a toddler bed. It can also gently soothe your baby to sleep or create an easy slope for reflux babies. The add-on canopy and drape rod will encase your baby in a comfortable like a womb. It can even double as a play yard that can be carried around and provide your child with the security and comfort to rest on the go.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that doesn't sacrifice design. It combines a contemporary design with eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is made sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no drop-sides or decorative cutouts that could snag clothing. It has no rough or sharp edges, and can easily be dressed with a sheet.
Some parents may want a minimal crib to complement their modern or contemporary home, while others might prefer a more formal style that is suited to the room's decor. If you're in the latter category of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. This elegant-looking model converts from a bassinet into a mini crib and then to a full-sized crib, all without adding mattresses or bars, meaning you'll have less mess to clean up.
If you are a parent who doesn't like fussiness, choose a crib that is more simple and clean looking. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to aid your baby's development into an adult. However, they have an older-style look when compared to other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.
