Five Best Crib Lessons From Professionals

Choosing the Best Crib

A crib is a crucial element in your nursery for years and it's essential to pick one you love looking at. Avoid any with cutouts or drop-sides that your child could get into, and opt for a design 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 start in life, and it starts with a safe crib. You shouldn't use an old crib that might contain a number of loose or missing parts, and you definitely do not want one that isn't in compliance with current safety standards. If you're buying a brand new crib, look for CPSC, ASTM, or JPMA certification to ensure it is up to the highest safety standards.

The slats on a crib should be positioned so that children do not get their heads or fingers in the slats. They should also not have any decorative cutouts or other embellishments which could result in injuries. A mattress support system is crucial to the safety of the crib and must be able to adjust to different heights to accommodate your baby as they grow.

It is also recommended to avoid hanging objects, such as blind strings or curtains because they pose the risk of strangulation to your baby. It is a good idea to inspect your crib on a regular basis for loose or missing objects, and replace any that have become dislodged in the course of time.

Some cribs come with an additional side panel that can be lowered. However it won't stay down for very long. These are great for parents who do not want to share the cheap cot bed. Just make sure you keep your crib away from radiators and windows.

If you're seeking a crib that is eco-friendly, think about one made of wood from sustainable forests. It's recommended to select a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low emissions of chemicals. If you're looking for something more durable, consider a crib that is 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 addition. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim which makes it a perfect option for spaces that are tight. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, said that the crib was "up there with the most attractive cribs we've ever seen, even in a sea grey!"

This classic high-back baby crib is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a range of modern colors that will match any aesthetic. It's heavier than the other cribs we've examined, but it's strong 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 than our other top picks.

While it's a great option for small spaces, its unique design may be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also heavier than our other picks and will require to be disassembled to pass through doors that are standard when moving it from room to room.

Standard cribs are constructed from wood, such as maple or oak. They can also be made of cherry, mahogany, birch or cherry. They are more durable than other materials, and resist scratches and dings better than soft pine. Be aware that some manufacturers choose pine over harder hardwoods to save money. This can make a crib vulnerable to dents and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.

A standard crib will also include a toddler rail to protect your child from falling out or climbing. But keep in mind that many cribs for toddlers require you to purchase a separate toddler bed rail to ensure safety.

Convertibility

There are a lot of aspects to take into consideration when selecting a crib. You must consider size, style and slat style and whether it's convertible or not. It is essential to pick a crib that you like since it will be with your baby for a long time. You should also choose the crib that is compatible with the decor of your home, regardless of whether it's contemporary or traditional.

A convertible crib is a great choice because it will grow with your child into a toddler bed, and later to a larger bed. This will save you money in the long run because you don't need to purchase an additional bed for your child.

There are a variety of convertible cribs on the market however, certain models stand out more than others. One of them is the Graco Benton 5in1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD gold-certified which means it is in compliance with or exceeds government safety standards in the construction and finish. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings as well as a low-profile design that allows you to easily take your child into and out of it. It is simple to put together this crib, which takes less than 15 minutes to assemble using the use of a cordless drill/driver.

Another option that is worth considering is another option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. This crib is a good value and is GREENGUARD Gold certified. It is a classic crib that could be transformed into an infant bed or a daybed. The crib is easy to put together, and its low profile makes it easier for parents to move into and out.

The final crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for minimalists who want to keep their room simple and tidy. This chic crib can be converted into a toddler or full-size bed by purchasing an additional rail and kit. The crib is manufactured in Italy and employs eco-friendly manufacturing techniques. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and specifically designed to work with the brand's toxic-free mattresses.

Budget

A good crib will have a sturdy construction and easy assembly instructions. This will make the installation relatively painless. A stylish design that fits with the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are numerous models of cribs that can be bought at various prices.

The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, is one of the most versatile options that are available. It can be set up as a bassinet crib or toddler bed. It can also roll and rock to gently help your baby sleep or create an incline that is gentle for babies who have reflux. The canopy and drape rods envelop the baby in an ambiance that is warm and womb-like. It can also be used as a portable play area and provides your child with a secure and comfortable space to rest while traveling.

Another option that doesn't sacrifice on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which blends modern design with eco-friendly materials. The solid wood and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is made sustainably in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down through siblings) and meets all CPSC safety standards, which include no drop-sides or decorative cutouts which could catch clothing. It is easy to dress with sheets and does not have sharp edges.

Some parents might want a minimal crib to complement their modern or contemporary home, while others may prefer a more stately design that complements the decor of the room. 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 beautiful model transforms from a bassinet into a mini-crib and then a full-size crib without the requirement for mattresses or bars.

If you're a parent who isn't in the mood for fussiness, choose the simpler and cleaner-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 and Babyletto Hudson cribs beds both have all the pieces you need to assist your baby cot online to grow into a toddler. However, they have an older-style look when as compared to other models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5 in 1.