Choosing the Best Crib

A crib will be a key feature in your nursery for many years so it's crucial to choose a crib you enjoy admiring. Avoid cribs with cutouts, or drop-sides that your little one could fall into, and select one that is easily convertible into a toddler bed or daybed.

Safety

We want to give our children the best start in life. This starts with a crib that is safe. You don't want to use an old crib that might have a lot of loose or broken parts, and you definitely shouldn't buy one that's not conforming to the current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, ensure that it is certified by the CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.

The slats that comprise the crib should be spaced to prevent children from getting their hands or heads in the slats, and they shouldn't have any decorative cutouts or other decorations that could pose an injury risk. A mattress support system is also vital to the crib's safety, and it should be adjustable to different heights to accommodate your child as they develop.

Avoid hanging items like curtains or blinds as they can strangle your baby. Examine your crib for loose or missing items and replace them if they are damaged.

Some cribs have a side panel that can be lowered. However it won't be down for long. These are great for parents who don't want to share a bed. Just make sure you put your crib away from radiators and windows.

If you're looking for a crib that is eco-friendly, think about one made from wood from sustainable forests. It's recommended to pick a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low chemical emissions. If you're looking to buy something more durable, consider a crib made of 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 an elegant or minimalist style for your nursery, choosing a stylish crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim, making it a good fit for tight spaces. It's GREENGUARD Certified and comes with the option of a lower-height mattress. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, stated that the crib was "up among the most beautiful cribs we've ever seen, even among a sea grey!"

This classic high-back baby crib is made of solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety modern colors that match any style. It's heavier than other cribs that 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 our other top choices.

While it's a great choice for small spaces, its unique design can be difficult to find sheets and other bedding for. It's also heavt's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it meets or exceeds federal safety standards for construction and finish. In addition, it has three adjustable height settings for the mattress and an extremely low profile, making it easy to get your baby out and in of the crib. It is also simple to assemble in less than 15 minutes with an electric drill or driver.

Another good option is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. The crib is GreenGuard Certified Gold and a great buy. It is a classic crib that could be converted into an infant bed or a daybed. This crib is easy to put together and its low profile makes it easy for parents to get into and out.

The final crib on our list, the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is a great option for minimalists looking to keep their nursery decor simple and clean. It's a stylish, affordable crib that can be outfitted as a full-size toddler bed or bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib was built in Italy with environmentally-friendly manufacturing methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and specifically designed to work together with the brand's mattresses that are free of toxics.

Budget

A crib that is of good quality is one that has a solid construction, and simple assembly instructions. This will make the process painless. And a stylish design that matches your nursery decor is also essential. Cribs are available in terms of price however, there are models that will fit into any budget.

For example, the top-rated Stokke Sleepi Bed is one of the most recommended cribs flexible options available on the market. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or as a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to help your baby sleep or create an easy slope for babies who are reflux. The canopy and drape rod add-ons envelop the baby in the comfort of a womb-like environment. It can also serve as a portable play area that provides your child with a secure and comfortable spot to sleep while moving around.

Another option that doesn't sacrifice on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines environmentally friendly materials. The solid wood and Baltic plywood crib made of birch is sustainably made in Europe to last for generations (and can be passed down between siblings) and is compliant with all CPSC safety standards, which include no cutouts for drop-sides or decorative cuts that could catch clothing. It has no rough or sharp edges and is easily dressed by a sheet.

Some parents may want a minimal crib to complement their contemporary or modern home, whereas others may prefer a more formal design that suits the room's decor. If your preference falls into the latter look into the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. This elegant model converts from a bassinet to a mini-crib and then a full-size crib with no need for bars or mattresses.

If you're a parent that isn't in the mood for fussiness, choose the simpler and cleaner-looking cribs. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the parts you need to help your baby develop into a toddler, however 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.