Best Baby Cribs of 2017 – Buying Guide and Reviews
One of the most exciting parts for new parents (aside from having the baby) is getting to put together the nursery. You want your baby’s sweetest dreams to be supported with comfort and safety most definitely. Especially considering that bedtime, naptime and many hours solo will be spent in their crib. Picking a theme and decorating sends such a thrill, but choosing a crib by color and style is the easy part. When it comes to choosing based on brand, price and safety, things can get a bit trickier. You may find yourself asking why you want a certain type or crib, how to go about picking one and finding that there are more types out there than you thought. Feeling a bit overwhelmed? Don’t sweat! Here’s a guide on what to consider when searching for the perfect crib for your baby and/or toddler.
Why you would you need a crib:
Take a step back and ask yourself, why do I need to buy a crib?
Glad you asked!
Sure, there are many articles and reasons out there these days on co-sleeping with your child. It’s up to you whether that is the right choice for you and your baby. This article is not here to convince you one way or another, again, that’s up to you.
Simply put, one reason to need a crib is that they are the safest place for you baby to sleep. The crib producing market has made sure of that. So whether you choose to start off with a crib from day one, or eventually transition your baby to one, read on to find out what you should know!
Types of cribs:
There are a handful of types of cribs: standard crib, bassinet, convertible crib, portable crib, travel crib, multifunctional crib and specialty crib. Let’s break it down:
Standard Crib:
The standard crib is exactly what it says: standard. That means that you can expect it to basically serve as a space for your little one to sleep. It doesn’t fold and pack up, therefore it remains stationary. There’s no unique or elaborate design and doesn’t usually contain any type of drawers or functional storage elements. If what you are looking for is a place for your baby to sleep and that’s about it, then look no further. The standard crib is a simple choice.
Bassinet:
A bassinet is more compact than the standard crib and is often a more portable option if need be. As far as price goes, a bassinet is typically a less expensive option and still provides a safe sleeping place for your baby. If you are looking for a more portable option but still like the idea of simple, perhaps a bassinet is the right move. Keep in mind that bassinets are only meant for infants who can’t crawl yet.
Convertible Crib:
The convertible crib holds true to its namesake and converts from a crib to a daybed. This is a great investment piece, since most children grow out of their cribs within the first 24 months give or take. If you are looking to invest in one piece of sleep furniture for your baby as they grow to their toddler years, the convertible crib is a great choice. Check out the many different brands and see how many different models these can convert to.
Portable Crib:
The portable crib is, well, portable. But do not confuse these types with a travel crib. These cribs are often built of a more sturdy material such as wood. These types are easier to store since they fold up, though they are still a bit clunkier when traveling with. Even still, if you are looking for a solid sleeping environment for your baby but what to be able to pack it away often, then this is a good choice for you.
Travel Crib:
Like the portable crib, the travel crib folds up for travel convenience. The difference? They are normally constructed from softer materials – think mesh or foam. They are easily packed up, making them suitable for the avid traveling parent with their children. These aren’t typically as comfortable and probably shouldn’t be used as your main infant bed but they are affordable and very light weight.
Multifunctional Crib:
Kind of like the convertible crib, the multifunctional crib transforms into different types of furniture, however without converting. No need to confuse the two, they are different types of cribs. The multifunctional crib typically serves as a crib, storage a space with drawers and even a changing table. Talk about a smart investment! This crib type is the perfect piece if you are a bit limited on space. It remains a sturdy sleeping environment with the added bonus of storage and a changing table.
Specialty Crib:
Lastly, the specialty crib. This type of crib encompasses round cribs, a crib constructed from eco-friendly matter, or anything that strays from a “standard” design. You can apply any of the types and guidelines above to these types of cribs. They definitely cater to the design and style aspects. As long as it is up to speed on safety for your baby, then there’s no reason not to opt for one of these types of cribs.
How to pick the right one:
The best way to choose a crib is to look at your baby’s needs but also look at your needs and lifestyle as well. Much like when purchasing a stroller or other types of baby gear, it is always a good idea to look at the type of life you live and the environment that you live in as well.
Do you live in a small apartment? Perhaps a more compact crib like a bassinet or foldable cribs like the portable type are your best decision to save space. A multifunctional crib will do this too.
Do you live in a spacious house? Cool! Your options are much more open. But think, are you looking to save some money and invest in a piece that will grow with your child? Then the convertible type cribs are perfect for you and your baby.
You’re a busy traveler that takes their kids along? Perfect. Traveling cribs are your best friend!
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to paying attention to your lifestyle and the safety and benefits to both you and your child. Perhaps you have more than one crib. That works too. Just be mindful! The most important thing to keep at the forefront of your mind is safety.
Crib Reviews:
Union 3-in-1 Convertible Crib
This is a good choice for convertible bed that is a little more compact than other 4-in-1’s because it doesn’t have the headboard or footboard. It still converts from crib to toddler bed to daybed, so growing with your child is not an issue. Though it only has a 3-point conversion, the mattress has a 4-point adjustment, whereas other cribs only offer three. So that is nice! Additionally, the non-toxic, lead and phthalate safe finish also adds peace of mind. Of course, it is ASTM and CPSC safety certified, which already makes it worth it! It also has a sleek and modern look.
DaVinci Kalani 4-in-1 Convertible Crib with Toddler Rail
Not only looks nice but performs nicely too! It has a design that grows with your baby because it easily converts from a crib to a toddler bed, daybed and then full-sized bed with a headboard and footboard. What sets it apart, though, is that a lot of other convertible cribs come with a mattress with only three points of adjustment, whereas this crib offers four! This crib is CPSC and ASTM certified, it is finished with a non-toxic finish and is lead and phthalate safe. What more could you want and need!
Stork Craft Tuscany 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
This converts from a crib to a toddler bed, daybed and then full-sized bed with a headboard and footboard. At the toddler stage it comes with a toddler rail to ensure safety along the way, too. This crib is made of solid wood which ensure a good support. It also meets all of the safety certifications, which is a must! Definitely designed with solidarity and support in mind that lasts for years to come.
Graco Benton Convertible Crib
This crib meets all of the CPSC and ASTM safety standards and is also JPMA certified, so it definitely ensures peace of mind for your baby’s safety as they sleep! This crib is a great option because it grows with your child, so you don’t have to necessarily replace the furniture as your child grows. It converts from a crib to a toddler bed, daybed and then full-sized bed with a headboard and footboard. It also comes with an adjustable mattress. It is designed with years of use in mind, so it’s a good investment to make for you baby!
Delta Children Canton 4-in-1 Convertible Crib
The Delta Crib is a great investment being that it is a 4-in-1 designed crib. It converts from a crib to a toddler bed, daybed and then full-sized bed with a headboard and footboard. It’s the perfect piece to get if you want it to grow with your child and last for years to come. Other great features are that it comes with an adjustable mattress that adjusts to three different heights, ensuring safety. It also has a non-toxic finish and is easy to assemble. Good investment!
Crib Safety Guidelines:
Now that you have a better idea on which crib best suites your baby and your lifestyle, let’s talk crib safety. Since this is the space that your baby will be for hours alone, it’s important to make the sleeping environment as safe for them as possible. This way you ensure their safety and your peace of mind as your child sweetly sleeps. Here are 10 safety points to consider:
- Avoid bulky blankets and pillow:
This seems counterintuitive, right? You want your baby to be cozy, comfortable and warm. Do not do it. The pillows and blankets and plush items may look cute, but as your baby is still little, he/she does not yet have full muscle control. If your child were to roll onto a bulky and plush pillow or blanket, they could suffocate or even experience SIDS. The best way to keep them warm is to choose warmer pajamas. It’s the safest choice.
- Get a Safety Certified Crib
To best avoid your child getting caught or falling out of their crib and being seriously injured, choose a safety certified crib from the start. The easiest way to know is to look for a crib marked “CPSC” for the Consumer Product Safety Commission. If it is not labeled with this safety rating, do not buy it.
- Be Cautious When Re-Using Cribs
Yes, re-using cribs is a great money-saver. But if the crib you are looking to use has 10 or more years on it, avoid it. It’s not worth risking your child’s safety. The same guidelines apply to broken cribs. It’s best to invest in a modern crib. They are built with up-to-date safety features whereas older versions are not. There’s no price on your child’s safety, right? Search for newer and undamaged cribs.
- Adjustable Mattress Height:
Make sure to get a crib that allows you to adjust the height of the mattress. By the time your child is able to sit and/or stand, you should have the ability to adjust the height of the crib mattress. This will prevent any accidents where your child might fall over the edge of their crib and injury themselves.
- Avoid Drop-Side Cribs:
CPSC standard cribs no longer support drop-side cribs and neither should you. Sure, a crib with this design allows you to easily access your child, but they have also been linked to many infant injuries and death. The solution: avoid these dangerously design cribs.
- Avoid a Gap:
Do not allow more than a two-finger width gap to form between the crib bars and the crib mattress. Any gap larger can lead to your baby getting stuck resulting in injury.
- Follow Directions:
Okay, this may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easier to slip up than you may think. Simply put: follow directions when assembling your crib. They are there for a reason. Better yet, if you can, have a professional assemble the crib. Anything put together incorrectly leads to a higher potential that your baby will end up hurt.
- Avoid the extras:
Much like avoiding the plush pillows and blankets, adding extra frills to your baby’s crib is also dangerous. Specifically speaking, cushy mattresses. Stick to the crib mattress that came with the crib. It’s your best bet. They are designed to be the correct firmness to prevent suffocation.
- Put Crib in an Open Area:
Avoid placing your baby’s crib where there are dangling objects such as curtains, blinds or other home décor. These items offer the risk of strangulation and your baby being entangled. Make sure the space around the crib is clear.
- Check and Check Again:
Double check everything. Give your crib a second-look and make sure there is nothing glaring like broken pieces, loose materials or other defects. Nothing is perfect, but you have the control to make sure it is as close to it as can be.
Remember, your baby spends a lot of time in their crib sleeping. Nothing is sweeter than peering down at your safe and snoozing babe. So pay attention to their growth and how their crib fits that need. You have the control to make their sleeping environment as safe as possible. Choose wisely! When you know that all the boxes have been check, both you and your babe can sleep with peace of mind!
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