10 Ways To Create Your Best Crib Empire Choosing the Best Crib

A crib is a crucial feature in your nursery for many years and it's essential to choose a crib you enjoy seeing. Avoid cribs with cutouts or drop-sides that your little one could fall into, and opt for one that is able to be converted to a toddler bed, or daybed.

Safety

As parents, we want to give our children the best possible start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You don't need to use an infant crib with many missing or loose pieces, nor do you want one that isn't in line with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib make sure it has the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.

The slats of the crib must be spaced to stop children from catching their fingers or head in them, and they shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other embellishments that could create a risk. A mattress support system is also essential to ensure the safety of your crib, and it should be adjustable to different heights to accommodate your baby as they develop.

You'll also want to avoid hanging objects like blind strings or curtains since they pose a strangulation risk for your baby. Be sure to check your crib for missing or loose items and replace them if they are damaged.

Some cribs have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, but it won't stay down for very long. These are useful for parents who wish to co-sleep without the risks of bed-sharing, but be sure you're in a space that is away from windows and radiators and that your child isn't too close to the curtain or window sill.

If you're seeking a crib that is eco-friendly, think about one made from wood from sustainable forests. It's recommended to pick a crib that's Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed a test for low emissions of chemicals. If you want to go more, consider a crib that is made from sustainable sourced New Zealand pine and is free of lead, the phthalates, BPA, and over 360 other VOCs and chemicals.

Style

Whether you're working with an elegant or minimalist nursery aesthetic, choosing an attractive crib is a must. The SnuzPod4 can be used in tiny spaces since it's slim and sleek. It's also GREENGUARD Certified and has an adjustable lower height mattress. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, claimed that the crib was "up there with the most attractive cribs we've ever seen even among a sea grey!"

The classic high-back crib for babies is made from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety of contemporary colors that can be matched to any style. It's a bit heavier than the other cribs we've tried, but it's sturdy enough to make it 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 compared to other top choices.

It's a great choice for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find sheets and bedding. It's also bulkier than our other choices and will need to be dismantled to fit through standard doorways when moving it from room to room.

Standard cribs are typically constructed of wood, like maple or oak, ash, mahogany, cherry or birch. They are more durable than other materials, and resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. However, be aware of the fact that some manufacturers use pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable because it's cheaper. This can make a crib more vulnerable to dents and scratches and may require more frequent cleaning.

A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling out or climbing. However, be aware that many toddler-safe cribs will require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail to ensure safety.

Convertibility

There are many aspects to take into consideration when selecting the right crib. You have to consider size, style and slat style, as well as whether it's convertible or not. It is essential to choose a crib that you love because it will be with your baby for a long time. You should also select a crib that is a good fit to the decor of your home, whether that be modern or traditional.


A convertible crib will expand with your baby, becoming a toddler bed, then a full size bed. This will save you money in the long run because you won't have to buy a mattress for your child.

There are numerous convertible cribs on the market, but certain models stand out more 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 the safety standards of the government in terms of design and construction. It also has three adjustable mattress settings and a low-profile design that allows you to easily get your child in and out of it. The crib is also simple to assemble and can be assembled in less than 15 minutes with the use of a cordless drill/driver.

The DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib is another great option. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and is a great purchase. mini cotbed has a classic design and can be converted to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed with the purchase of separate conversion kits. The crib is simple to put together, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to get into and out.

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

Budget

A good crib will have a sturdy construction and simple assembly instructions. This makes the assembly painless. A stylish design that is compatible with your nursery decor is also important. Cribs are available in terms of price, but there are models that are suitable for every budget.

For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most adaptable options on the market. It can be used as a bassinet crib or a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to help your baby sleep or create a gentle slope for babies who are reflux. The added drape rod and canopy envelop your child in a warm baby-like womb. It can even double as a play yard that can be carried around and provide your child with a comfortable and secure place to sleep on the move.

Another option that doesn't compromise on design is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which combines a modern aesthetic with environmentally friendly 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, including no cutouts with decorative edges or drop-sides that could catch clothing. It has no sharp or rough edges and can easily be dressed with sheets.

Some parents might want a minimalist crib to match their contemporary or modern home, whereas others may prefer a more formal design that is suited to the room's decor. If you're in the latter category of parents then the Babyletto Hudson 3 in 1 crib is a great option. This elegant model converts from a bassinet into an infant crib and then a full-size crib without the requirement for mattresses or bars.

If you are a parent who isn't a fan of excessive fussiness, consider a crib that is less cluttered and more clean looking. 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 a toddler, however they have more of a traditional style than other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.