Choosing the Best Crib

Pick a crib you love. It will be in your nursery for many years. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your little one could fall into, and select one that is able to be converted to a toddler bed, or daybed.

Safety

As parents as parents, we want to provide our children the best baby cots possible start in life, and that starts with a safe crib. You don't want to use an old crib that may have a lot of loose or missing parts, and you definitely don't want one that isn't up to 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 spaced evenly so that children do not get their fingers or heads in them. They should also not contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other decorations that could cause injury. The mattress support system, which is essential to the security of your crib, must be adjustable to various levels so that it can adapt to the needs of your child.

It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects like curtains or blind strings, as these present a strangulation risk for your baby. Be sure to check your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if needed.

Some cribs come with a side panel that can be moved down. However, it will not stay down for very long. These are ideal for parents who want to sleep with their children without the dangers of bed-sharing, but be sure that you're positioned in an area that is away from windows and radiators and that your baby isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.

If you're looking for an environmentally friendly crib, pick one that is constructed from sustainable forests. You should also consider one that is Greenguard Gold Certified. This means that it has passed a series of tests to ensure that it emits no chemical emissions. If you're looking for something even superior, select a crib made from sustainable New Zealand pine that is free of BPA chemical compounds, BPA-based chemicals phthalates and other chemicals.

Style

If you're planning to work with a classic or minimalist design, a stylish crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim which makes it a perfect fit for tight spaces. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the best infant cribs-looking ones we've seen even in the midst of grey!"

The classic high-back crib for babies is made from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety contemporary colors that can be matched to any style. It's a bit heavier than other cribs we've examined, but it's strong enough to get 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 occupies more square footage in the nursery than some of our other top picks.

It's a great choice for small spaces but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also a bit bulkier than our other choices and will probably need to be disassembled to fit through doors that are standard in order to move from room space.

Standard cribs are typically constructed of wood, such as maple or oak, ash, mahogany, cherry, or birch. They tend to be more durable than other materials, and are resistant to nicks 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 more susceptible to damage and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.

A standard crib will include an infant rail to prevent your child from falling out or climbing. Keep in mind that a lot of cribs specifically designed for toddlers require you to purchase an additional toddler bed rail.

Convertibility

When it comes to choosing a crib, there are a lot of things to consider. Think about the size, design, slats, and if it is convertible. It's important to find a crib you like because it will be used by your child for a long time. You should also choose the crib that is compatible with the decor of your home, no matter if it's traditional or modern.

A convertible crib will expand with your baby, turning into a toddler bed, and eventually to a full-size bed. This will save you money in the end since you don't have to buy a mattress for your child.

Some 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 that it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finishing. Additionally, it comes with three adjustable height settings for the mattress and an extremely low profile, making it easy to move your baby out and in of the crib. It is simple to put together this crib and takes less than 15 minutes using a cordless driver/drill.

Another option that is worth considering is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is an excellent value cots and tots is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It has a classic design and can be made into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed with 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 cot beds for sale short parents.

The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is perfect for those who want to keep their bedroom simple and tidy. This elegant crib can be converted into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly manufacturing techniques. 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 quality crib must be built with strength and straightforward assembly instructions that result in an easy and painless installation. A chic design that complements the decor of your nursery is crucial. Cribs vary in terms of cost, but there are models that suit every budget.

For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most flexible options on the market. It can be set up as a bassinet, crib or a toddler bed and can also rock and roll to gently help your baby sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies who have reflux. The canopy and drape rod encase your baby in a comfortable baby-like womb. It can also double as a portable play yard providing your child with a comfortable and secure place to sleep on the move.

The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another option that doesn't sacrifice design. It combines a contemporary design with eco-friendly materials. The solid wood and Baltic birch plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe to last generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is in compliance with all CPSC safety standards, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could catch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and does not have sharp edges.

Some parents prefer a simple crib to complement their contemporary or modern home. Some prefer a more elegant style that complements the interior decor of the room. If you fall into the latter group of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a fantastic choice. The elegantly designed model can be converted from a bassinet into an infant crib, and then to a full crib all without the need for 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 simpler and cleaner visually. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs both have all the elements you need to assist your baby to grow into an adult. However, they sport more of a traditional style as compared to other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.