Choosing the Best Crib

A crib will be a key element in your nursery for years, so it's important to pick one you love looking at. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your child might get 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 shouldn't use cribs that have a lot loose or missing pieces, nor do you want one that isn't in line with current safety standards. If you're purchasing a new crib, make sure you look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it meets the most important safety requirements.

The slats on a crib should be spaced evenly to ensure that children don't get their heads or fingers in the slats. They shouldn't include any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could result in injury. A mattress support system is also essential to ensure the safety of your crib and should be able to adjust to different heights to accommodate your baby as they develop.

Avoid hanging items like blind strings or curtains, as they can strangle your child. It's a good idea inspect your crib on a regular basis for loose or missing objects, and replace any that are loosened over time.

Some cribs have an additional side panel that can be lowered, but it won't stay down for long. These are great for parents who do not want to share with their children. Just make sure you put your crib away from windows and radiators.

If you're seeking a crib that is environmentally friendly, consider one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. It is also recommended to choose one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means it has passed tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you're looking for something superior, select a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA, BPA-based chemicals, phthalates and other chemicals.

Style

No matter if you want to design a minimalist or classic nursery, a stylish crib can be a wonderful option. The SnuzPod4 is slim and sleek which makes it a perfect fit for tight spaces. It is also GREENGUARD Certified and comes with the option of a lower-height mattress. One of our test subjects, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the best cot bed-looking ones we've seen, even in a sea of grey!"

The classic high-back crib for babies is made from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a range of modern colors that match any aesthetic. It's a bit heavier than other cribs that we've examined, but it's strong 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 when compared to other top picks.

While it's a great option for small spaces, its unique design can be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also heavier than our other picks and will need to be disassembled in order to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.

Standard cribs are typically constructed from wood, such as maple or oak. They can also be made from mahogany, birch or cherry. They are typically more durable than other materials and can withstand damage better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that some manufacturers use pine instead of the more durable hardwoods because it's less expensive. This could make the crib more vulnerable to dent and scratches, which could require more frequent cleaning.

Another benefit of the standard crib is that it usually comes with a toddler rail which will help to keep your child safe from climbing and falling out. Keep in mind, however, that many cribs designed for toddlers will require you to buy an additional toddler bed rail.

Convertibility

There are numerous things to consider when choosing a crib. You must consider the size, style and slat style cots and tots if it's convertible or not. It is essential to choose the crib you love, as it will be a part of your cheap baby cots for a long period of time. You also want to choose a crib that is a good fit into your home's decor whether it's traditional or modern.

A convertible crib will grow with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, then an adult size bed. This will save you money in the end because you won't have to purchase a mattress for your child.

There are a variety of convertible cribs on the market however, certain models 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 surpasses government safety standards in design and construction. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings and a low profile that makes it easier to take your child into and out of it. It is also simple to assemble, taking less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.

Another option that is worth considering is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is a great value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic crib that can be converted into the toddler bed or daybed. The crib is also easy to put together and has a low profile that allows it to be easily reached into and out for small parents.

The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great alternative for minimalists who wish to keep their nursery design simple and clean. It's a stylish and affordable crib that can be outfitted into a full-size toddler bed or bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and uses environmentally conscious manufacturing methods. It is also GREENGUARD gold certified and designed to be used in conjunction with the brand's toxic free mattresses.

Budget

A good crib must be built with strength and straightforward assembly instructions that result in relatively frustration-free installation. And a stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs vary in terms of price however there are some models that suit every budget.

The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for instance, is among the most flexible options available that are available. 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 reflux babies. The canopy and drape rod will encase your baby in a cozy baby-like womb. It can also be used as a portable play area, providing your child with a secure and comfortable place to nap when they are moving around.

The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that does not sacrifice design. It combines a contemporary design with sustainable materials. The solid wood crib of birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe and can be passed on cots to tots children. It meets all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could snag clothing. It has no sharp or rough edges and is easily dressed by a sheet.

Some parents may want an uncluttered crib that complements their modern or contemporary home, while others may prefer a more formal style that is suited to the room's decor. If your preference falls into the latter category, consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This beautiful model transforms from a bassinet into an infant crib and then a full-size crib without the need for mattresses or bars.

If you're a parent who's not in the mood for fussiness, choose the less cluttered and more elegant cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the pieces you'll need to help your baby become an adult, but they have more of a traditional look than some other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.