Choosing the best crib (www.cots4tots.co.uk)

Pick a crib you love. It will be in your nursery for a long time. Avoid cribs that have cutouts and drop-sides, since your child could fall in. Instead, choose one that can easily be transformed into a daybed or toddler.

Safety

As parents, we want to give our children the best 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 and you shouldn't choose one that isn't in line with current safety standards. When purchasing a crib, make sure that it has CPSC, ASTM or JPMA certification.

The slats of a crib should be spaced evenly so that children do not get their fingers or heads in them. They should not include any decorative cutouts or other ornaments that could cause injury. The mattress support system, which is crucial to the safety of your crib, should be adjustable to different heights so that it can grow with your child.

It is also important to stay clear of hanging objects, such as curtains or blind strings, as these present an opportunity for strangulation for your infant. It is a good idea to examine your crib frequently for any missing or loose objects, and replace any that have gotten lost in the course of time.

Some cribs have the option of a side panel that could be lifted but it won't be down for long. They are ideal for parents who do not want to share a bed. Make sure to put your crib away from windows and radiators.

If you're looking for a crib which is green, you should consider one made from wood sourced from sustainable forests. It's important to select a crib that is Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it has passed tests to ensure low emissions of chemicals. 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

Whether you're working with a minimal or classic design, an attractive crib is essential. The SnuzPod4 is sleek and slim which makes it a perfect fit for tight spaces. It also comes with a lower mattress height setting and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Maria Martin, Mother & Baby's Editor, stated that the crib was "up among the most beautiful cribs we've ever seen even in a sea grey!"

The classic high-back crib for babies is constructed from solid New Zealand Pinewood and is available in a variety modern colors that will match any aesthetic. It's heavier than the other cribs we've tested, but durable enough to last 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 takes up more space in the nursery compared to our other top picks.

It's a great option for smaller spaces, but its unique design makes it difficult to find bedding and sheets. It's also heavier than some of our other picks and may require dismantling to fit through doors that are standard when you move from room to room.

Standard cribs are usually constructed of wood like oak or maple. They are also made of mahogany, birch or cherry. They are generally longer-lasting than other materials and resist damage better than soft pine. But be aware that certain manufacturers make use of pine instead of hardwoods that are more durable because it's less expensive. This could make a crib more susceptible to damage and scratches and could require more frequent cleaning.

A standard crib will include a toddler rail to keep your child from falling or climbing. Remember, however, that many cribs specifically designed for toddlers require you to buy a separate toddler bed rail.

Convertibility

There are many things to consider when choosing the right crib. It is important to think about the size, style, and slat type and whether it's convertible or not. It's crucial to choose a crib that you like since it will be used by your baby for a long time. You should also choose the crib that is compatible with the style of your home, whether it's contemporary or traditional.

A convertible crib will expand with your baby, turning into a toddler bed, then a full size bed. This will save you money over time because you won't need to purchase a separate bed for your child.

Some convertible cribs are more distinctive than others. The Graco Benton 5-in-1 convertible crib is a great example. It's GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means that it is in compliance with or exceeds the government safety standards for construction and finish. It also comes with three adjustable mattress settings and a low profile that allows you to easily get your child in and out of it. It is also easy to put together in less than 15 minutes with a cordless drill/driver.

Another option that is worth considering is the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1 convertible crib. It is GREENGUARD certified Gold and is a great purchase. It is an old-fashioned crib that can be transformed into the toddler bed or daybed. It is also easy to assemble and has a low-profile that allows it to be easily reached in and out for small parents.

The final crib on our list is the Oeuf Brooklyn convertible crib. This crib is ideal for those who want to keep their bedroom simple and clean. This elegant crib can be made into a full-size toddler bed by purchasing an optional rail and kit. This crib is made in Italy and is made using environmentally-friendly production methods. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified and is specifically designed to work alongside the brand's non-toxic mattresses.

Budget

A good crib will have a sturdy construction and easy assembly instructions. This makes the assembly easy. A chic design that is in line with the decor of your nursery is crucial. There are a variety of cribs available to be purchased at different costs.

The Stokke Sleepi Bed, for example, is one of the most versatile options that are available. It can be used as a bassinet, crib or as a toddler bed. It can also rock gently to soothe your baby to sleep or create a gentle slope for babies with reflux. The canopy and drape rod will encase your baby in a comfortable baby-like womb. It could also serve as a portable play yard and provide your child with a comfortable and secure place to nap on the go.

Another option that doesn't sacrifice on style is the Oeuf Sparrow crib, which is a modern-day crib that combines eco-friendly materials. The solid Birch and Baltic birch wood plywood crib is produced sustainably in Europe and is able to be passed on to siblings. It is compliant with all CPSC standards and doesn't have drop-sides, cutouts for decorative purposes or sharp edges that could snag clothing. It does not have rough or sharp edges, and is easily dressed with a sheet.

Some parents might prefer a minimal crib to complement their contemporary or modern home, while others may prefer a more formal style that is suited to the room's decor. If your preference falls into the latter category you should consider the Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 crib. The elegantly designed model can be converted from a bassinet into mini cribs and later to a full-sized crib, all without the need for bars or mattresses, so you'll have less mess to clean up.

If you're a parent who doesn't like fussiness, choose a crib that is more simple and clean visually. The Union 3-in-1 crib as well as the Babyletto Hudson both come with all the pieces you'll need to allow your baby to grow into a toddler, however they're more of a traditional design than some models, like the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 or the Dream on Me Ashton 5-in-1.