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Choosing the Best Crib

Pick a crib you love. It will be part of your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your little one could fall into, and choose one that is able to be converted to a toddler bed, or daybed.

Safety

We want to give our children the best start in life. This starts with a crib that's safe. You don't want to use an old crib that might have a lot of loose or broken parts, and you certainly do not want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. If you're buying a brand new crib, look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure that it meets the most important safety standards.

The slats that comprise the crib must be spaced so that children aren't getting their hands or heads in the slats and should not have any decorative cutouts or other embellishments that could create a risk. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the safety of your crib, should be able to be adjusted to various levels so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.

Avoid hanging objects such as curtains or blinds, because they could strangle your child. It's a good idea to check your crib regularly for loose or missing items, and replace them if they are missing or that have gotten lost in the course of time.

Some cribs have a side panel which can be moved down. However, it will not stay down for very long. These are great for parents who don't want to share with their children. Just make sure you put your crib away from windows and radiators.

If you're looking for a crib which is eco-friendly, think about one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. It's important to choose a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to go a step further, you should look for a crib made of sustainably sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.

Style

Whatever you decide to do, whether you want to create a minimalist or classic nursery, a chic crib can be a wonderful option. The SnuzPod4 fits well in small spaces because it is slim and sleek. It's GREENGUARD Certified and has a lower height mattress setting. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib was "up among the most beautiful cribs we've seen, even in a sea grey!"

This classic high-back baby crib is made from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's heavier than other cribs that we've examined, but it's strong enough to get 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 more space in the nursery when compared to our other top choices.

It's a good choice for small spaces, however its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also a bit heavier than our other choices and will probably require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard in order to move from room the next.

Standard cribs are usually constructed from wood, including maple or oak, ash, cherry, mahogany, or birch. They are generally more long-lasting than other materials and resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. However, be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of more durable hardwoods since it's less expensive. This can make the crib more prone to scratches and dent, which could require more frequent cleaning.

Another benefit of a standard crib is that it typically comes with a toddler rail which will ensure your child's safety from falling down and climbing. However, keep in mind that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail for added safety.

Convertibility

There are many aspects to take into consideration when selecting the right crib. You have to consider the size, style, and slat type and if it's convertible or not. It's important to find the crib you love, as it will be used by your child for a long period of time. You also want to choose the crib that fits to the decor of your home, whether that be traditional or modern.

A convertible crib will grow with your child, eventually becoming a toddler bed, and then to a full-size bed. This will save you money over the long term because you won't need to buy a mattress for your child.

Certain convertible cribs stand out more than other. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a good example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it is in compliance with or exceeds the government safety standards for construction and finish. Additionally, it comes with three height settings that can be adjusted and a low profile that makes it easy to get your baby out of the crib. It is also easy to build, taking less than 15 minutes with an electric drill or driver.

The DaVinci Jayden cots 4 tots-in-1 convertible crib is another good alternative. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic crib that could be converted into a toddler bed or daybed. This 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 perfect for minimalists looking to keep their room simple and clean. It's a stylish, affordable cots crib that can be made to become a full-size toddler bed or bed with the purchase of an optional rail and kit. This crib was built in Italy using eco-friendly manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and is designed to be used alongside the brand's mattresses that are free of toxic substances.

Budget

A crib that is of good quality will have a sturdy structure and straightforward assembly instructions that allow for the installation process being relatively easy. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs are available in terms of cost, but there are models that will fit into any budget.

For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or toddler bed. It can also rock and roll to gently help your Baby beds sleep or create a gentle incline for babies with reflux. The add-on canopy and drape rod encase your child in a warm womb-like environment. It can even double as a play yard that can be carried around, giving your child the security and comfort to rest on the go.

Another option that doesn't sacrifice on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines sustainable materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, which include no drop-sides or decorative cutouts that could snag clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and is free of sharp edges.

Some parents might prefer an uncluttered crib that complements their modern or contemporary home, while others might prefer a more formal design that is suited to the room's decor. If you're in the latter group of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great choice. This elegant-looking model converts from bassinet to a mini crib and then to a full crib, all without adding bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.

If you're a parent who's not in the mood for fussiness, choose the simpler and cleaner-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the pieces you'll need for your baby to grow into a toddler, however they have a more traditional style than other models like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.