5 Best Crib Lessons Learned From Professionals
Choosing the Best Crib
A crib will be a key feature in your nursery for a long time, so it's important to choose a crib you enjoy looking at. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your little one could fall into, and select one that can be easily converted to a toddler bed, or daybed.
Safety
As parents as parents, we want to provide our children the best possible start in life, and that starts with a safe crib. You don't need to use an infant crib with a lot loose or missing pieces, nor do you want one that doesn't meet the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.
The crib's slats should be spaced evenly so that children cannot catch their fingers or heads in the slats. They shouldn't contain any cutouts with decorative designs or other ornaments that could cause injury. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the security of your crib, should be able to be adjusted to various heights to allow it to expand with your child.
Avoid hanging objects such as curtains or blinds, since they could strangle your baby. It's a good idea examine your crib frequently for loose or missing objects, and replace any that have gotten lost in the course of time.
Some cribs come with an additional side panel that can be removed. However it won't be down for very long. These are ideal for parents who want to sleep with their children without the dangers of bed-sharing, but make sure that you're positioned in an area away from radiators and windows and that your child isn't too close to the window or curtain sill.
If you're looking for a crib that is green, you should consider one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's recommended to choose a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests for low chemical emissions. If you want to go even further, look for a crib made of sustainable sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other chemicals and VOCs.
Style
No matter if you want to create an elegant or classic nursery, a stylish crib is a fantastic addition. The SnuzPod4 can be used in smaller spaces due to its slim and sleek. It's GREENGUARD Certified and has an adjustable lower height mattress. One of our testers, Mother & Baby Editor Maria Martin, says the crib is "up there with the most beautiful cribs we've seen, even in a sea of grey!"
This classic high-back baby crib is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety contemporary colors that can be matched to any aesthetic. It's heavier than the other cribs we've tested, but it's durable 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 space in the nursery when compared to our other top choices.
While a good option for small spaces, its unique design may be difficult to find bedding and sheets for. It's also a bit bulkier than some of our other options and may require dismantling in order to fit through standard doors in order to move from room room.
Standard cribs are typically constructed of wood like maple or oak. They can also be made of cherry, mahogany, birch, or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, cots and tots resist nicks and dings much better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that some manufacturers use pine instead of more durable hardwoods since it's less expensive. This could make the crib more prone to dent and scratches which could require more frequent cleaning.
A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling or climbing. However, keep in mind that a lot of cribs designed for toddlers will require you to purchase your own separate toddler bed rail for added security.
Convertibility
There are numerous things to think about when choosing the right crib. You have to consider size, style and slat type, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It is essential to pick a crib you love as it will be there for your baby for a long time. You should also choose a crib to fit in with the style of your home, whether it's traditional or modern.
A convertible crib is a great option since it grows with your child into an infant bed, and eventually into a full-size bed. This will save you money over time because you won't have to buy a separate bed for your child.
There are a variety of convertible cribs available However, some stand out better than others. One of them is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified that means it is in compliance with or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finish. In addition, it has three adjustable mattress height settings and a low profile that makes it easy to get your baby in and out of the crib. It is simple to put together this crib in less than 15 minutes to assemble using a cordless driver/drill.
Another good option is an alternative to the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is an excellent value and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into the toddler Cot Bed or daybed. This crib is also simple to put together and has a low-profile that makes it easy to reach in and out of for smaller parents.
The last crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib sets is perfect for minimalists looking to keep their nursery simple and clean. This stylish crib can be transformed into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. The crib was manufactured in Italy using eco-friendly manufacturing methods. It's also GREENGUARD Gold certified and is specifically designed to work together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.
Budget
A good crib will have a sturdy structure and straightforward assembly instructions that lead to relatively frustration-free installation. A stylish design that matches the decor of your nursery is essential. Cribs are available in terms of cost however there are some models that will fit into any budget.
For example, 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 be used to gently soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle slope for babies who are reflux. The canopy and drape rod add-ons provide the baby with an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can also double as a portable play yard providing your child with an incredibly comfortable and secure spot to sleep on the move.
The Oeuf Sparrow crib is another alternative that doesn't sacrifice style. It combines a modern aesthetic with eco-friendly materials. The solid birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe and can be passed down to children. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and does not have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could scratch clothing. It does not have sharp or rough edges and is easily dressed by sheets.
Some parents might want an uncluttered crib that complements their contemporary or modern home, while others might prefer a more stately design that is suited to the room's decor. If you fall into the latter group of parents and want a crib that is more formal, the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This elegant-looking model converts from a bassinet to 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 an adult who doesn't enjoy the fussiness of a crib, pick one that is simpler and cleaner visually. The Union 3-in-1 crib and the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the parts you need to help your baby become an adult, but 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.