10 Unexpected Cribs Tips Choosing Cribs For Your Baby's Nursery

A crib provides infants with an exclusive sleeping space to lower the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and encourages a regular sleeping routine. Cribs are also more flexible than other options, such as bassinets.

Whether you go for modern or traditional one, make sure to verify that it's certified by GreenGuard Gold to ensure it satisfies the highest standards of safety and reduces exposure to harmful chemicals. Consider other options to choose the crib that's right for your family.

1. Safety

As a parent, the safety of your child is of paramount importance. You want your child to sleep peacefully in an environment free of hazards like sharp edges or splinters. It is crucial to select a crib that meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) rigorous standards.

There are numerous things to look for, including slat spacing that is not more than 2 3/8 inches to ensure your baby's legs and arms don't get trapped. Also a mattress that is a firm, snug fit; no drop sides; stable cribs without wobbling parts and a clear instruction on assembly. Avoid bells and whistles, for example bumper streams or pads, as they can present a strangulation risk for your baby.

Find small cot beds that has been painted with low-VOC paints, a safer alternative to glues and varnishes which release harmful chemicals into the air. Also, look for a mattress made using non-toxic materials, like organic cotton and foam.

Finally, pick a crib free of ornaments and cutouts that could cause injury in the event that your child grasps them or gets their fingers stuck in them. Check that the mattress cover is securely attached to the crib frame and that there aren't any gaps between the mattress frame and the mattress. Avoid putting blankets, pillows or sheepskins, as well as pillows that resemble stuffed animals in the crib. These can increase the risk of your baby's SIDS. Mobiles can also be a hazard, as they can be pulled down onto the baby and cause suffocation. You should opt for a crib mattress made of mesh that is breathable rather than a mobile. This is more beneficial for your baby's health and let you keep an eye on your child as they sleep.

2. Convenience

A secure place for your baby to sleep is one of the most important things you will need. Cribs offer a comfortable place for your little one to rest, which can be especially useful when you're juggling other household chores or other activities.

You'll likely find cribs at your local nursery or home goods store. These establishments must abide by strict guidelines laid out by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are the ideal place to begin your search for a top-quality crib. If you want to buy a crib for your home, there are many factors to take into consideration before purchasing.

Cribs provide a comfy sleeping area for toddlers, infants and babies that last beyond their first few months of life. A lot of cribs are convertible, allowing you to convert the crib into the size of a toddler bed or full-size bed. This can save you money and prolong its lifespan.

The small size of cribs makes them ideal for small spaces like apartments or lofts. Some cribs come with a changing table, which is useful if your nursery space is limited in space.

Travel cribs offer the same degree of convenience, since they're designed to be lightweight and foldable for easy transport. They're an excellent choice for taking your baby on a trip or visiting family and friends since they can be easily packed up before you leave. However, the lightweight design of travel cribs can also cause less durable construction than standard models and could pose a concern for some parents.

3. Style

Choose a crib with distinctive design if want it to stand out. There are cribs with a minimalist, sleek style or made of materials like glass or bamboo. It could also have transparent sides for easy observation. These are often more expensive than their solid wood counterparts however they can be an attractive accent to any nursery.

Other cribs have an older style with graceful curves and moldings. They also have a look that is reminiscent of heirloom pieces. They can be extremely extravagant, and are generally made by hand with exquisite details. These are great options when you are looking for a crib that will become an integral piece of family furniture over time and can be paired with any style.

Another popular style is a Scandinavian crib with straight lines that are smooth and a light, bare wood finish that allows its natural beauty to shine through. They're a good fit for any modern or contemporary nursery, and you can easily paint them or leave them as is to match your decor.

These cribs can also be used as a changing table, making it easier to change your baby. This is particularly true for babies who are still young and may have trouble sitting up. These types of cribs typically have drawers beneath to store wipes, diapers and other necessities.

Some cribs are bent or have designs on the sides which can be used to create an illusion of a canopy. They can bring a touch of class to any nursery and are a great way to keep your baby cool and comfortable as they sleep. Make sure you use a fabrics that are not too long and that is tightly anchored to your crib. This will stop your child from reaching out to grab the fabric, or pulling it down.

4. Convertibility

A crib that converts into a toddler's bed a daybed or a full-size bed is a great option for any family. This feature will save you money from purchasing four separate beds over your child's growth as well as save space in the nursery. Many convertible cribs come with easy-to-store conversion kits, making it easy to utilize them as needed.

When looking for a brand crib that you want to buy, keep in mind that most cribs come with additional features such as adjustable heights for the mattress or drawers. This lets you alter the look and functionality of your crib. It can be particularly beneficial in the case of a small or limited storage space in your nursery. Some cribs have wheels, which can be extremely helpful in case you need to move the bed around for cleaning or for any other reason.

Convertible cribs typically are constructed from durable, non-toxic material that is safe for your baby. They also meet the strict safety standards set by CPSC and ASTM. Many models also have an elegant or contemporary design that can be adapted to a wide variety of nursery decor. Some cribs are crafted from wood and others are made from metal or painted steel. Certain brands are also committed to sustainability and provide eco-friendly cribs utilizing GREENGUARD GOLD-certified wood, which guarantees that no harmful toxins leak into the environment.

The best convertible crib for your child requires some time and thought however, it's an important choice that could last for a long time. Consider your options and compare prices and delivery times as well as other factors before settling on a choice.

5. Value


The crib is the biggest piece of furniture in your baby's nursery and has a big impact on the overall design and feel of the space. This is why choosing one that matches your preference in style or that will work well with the rest of your room decor can make a huge difference in how you feel about the nursery when you spend time there.

As your child grows older, cribs designed to convert into toddler beds or daybeds can be used for a long time, giving you a long-term benefit. They are also less expensive than a full-size bed and can be lent or sold to a relative once your child no longer has need of.

most recommended cribs can be easily maintained, as most parts can be removed, cleaned, and many have a conversion kit which makes it simple to convert them into the right size bed for your child. Wood cribs are incredibly durable and can withstand the stress of regular use, with some last through multiple children.

Foam crib mattresses are lighter than innerspring options and are easier to maneuver when changing sheets or altering the mattress's height. However, they can be more worn out and require replacement sooner than innerspring mattresses.

Hybrid crib mattresses, also referred to as dual firm or two-stage mattresses, are designed to be used for babies and toddlers. One side is soft for the infants while the other side is more rigid for toddlers. They're generally safer than foam mattresses and are more comfortable for older infants who aren't a fan of the sagging feeling of foam. They are usually cheaper than innerspring mattresses.