As you prepare for the arrival of your little one, there are countless decisions to make, and one of the most important ones is choosing the perfect crib! Your baby will spend a significant amount of time in their crib, so it’s essential to select a safe and comfortable space where they can rest and grow.
Here we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing a crib. From safety standards and size considerations to different crib types and features. We’ll cover it all so that you feel confident and informed.
Let’s dive right in!
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What to look for in a crib
Choosing the perfect crib for your baby is an exciting task. To ensure you make the right choice, here are some helpful tips on how to choose a crib:
- Safety standards: Make sure the crib meets the safety standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
- Size: Consider the size of the crib and whether it fits well in your nursery or bedroom
- Style: Cribs come in different styles, such as sleigh, convertible, and round. Consider which style fits your decor and needs
- Look: There are lots of options to choose from including modern, classic, mid-century, bohemian, and more
- Convertibility: Some cribs can be converted into toddler beds, daybeds, or even full-size beds. If you want a crib that can grow with your child, consider a convertible crib
- Mattress height: Some cribs have adjustable mattress heights, which is helpful as your child grows and learns to stand
- Material: Cribs can be made from different materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. Consider which material is durable, fits your decor, and is easy to clean
- Price: Cribs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand. Consider your budget and how long you plan to use the crib
Different types of cribs
Standard cribs
Standard cribs have a beautiful, classic look. There are so many great options, and I know you’ll be able to find one that fits your style. Whether you are going for a vintage look, something timeless, or very modern – you’ll be able to find the perfect look in a standard crib.
Many standard cribs have features that allow you to raise and lower the position of the mattress as baby learns to pull up to stand and gets taller. This is something you should read about in the features before making a decision.
Generally speaking, it is considered okay to have your baby sleep in a crib until they are attempting to climb out on their own. This means you’ll be able to use a standard crib for at least the first 18-24 months, or even longer depending on your little one.
If this is your first baby and you plan on having more, investing in a quality, standard crib is a great choice because you know your next baby will also get a lot of use out of it.
Convertible cribs
Convertible cribs are designed to grow with your baby. They typically are known as 4-in-1 because they can be used as a crib, toddler bed, day bed, and full-size bed. The main benefit of choosing a convertible crib is that it will grow with your child.
If you opt to get a matching nursery furniture set, you’ll always have a bed and matching dresser, even beyond the baby years. This is a great option whether you plan to have more children or not because you can follow the same route for each child.
Crib and changing table combos and cribs with storage
These are great options for organizing a baby’s room with limited space or setting up a nursery in a small room. Many crib/changing table combos are also convertible, so you can have the best of both worlds!
They save space by having the changing table and some drawers for storage attached to the side of the crib. Some have large drawers under the mattress for even more storage.
Travel cribs, pack ‘n plays, and play yards
Play yards and travel cribs, also known as playpens or pack ‘n plays, are versatile baby gear that can be used for both playtime and sleep.
They provide a safe and contained space for your little one to play, nap, or rest while you attend to other tasks. Play yards are also great for travel as they are lightweight, easy to pack up, and can provide a familiar sleep space for your baby while on the go.
Whether used at home or on the road, a play yard can be a valuable addition to your baby gear collection.
Here’s what you need to know about pack ‘n plays:
- Portability: Pack ‘n plays are designed to be easily folded and packed for travel. They are lightweight and compact, making them convenient for trips, visits to relatives, or even outings to the park
- Playtime and sleep: They offer a designated space for your baby to play and explore their surroundings. They often come with a soft mattress or a bassinet attachment for napping or sleep
- Safety features: Pack ‘n plays are built with safety in mind. They typically have sturdy frames, secure locking mechanisms, and breathable mesh sides that allow for visibility and airflow
- Convenience: Many come with additional features like storage pockets for keeping baby essentials, diaper changing stations, and detachable toys or mobiles to keep your baby entertained
- Easy setup and storage: They are designed for quick and hassle-free setup. They typically come with clear instructions and can be assembled and disassembled in a matter of minutes. When not in use, they can be folded and stored in a compact carrying case
- Age and weight limits: It’s important to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for age and weight limits of the pack ‘n play to ensure it is suitable for your baby
Questions to ask yourself before choosing a travel crib/play yard:
- What is the main purpose of the play yard? Will it be used for sleeping, playing, or both?
- How often will the play yard be used? Will it be used frequently for travel or only occasionally?
- What is the size of the play yard and does it fit in the space you have in mind?
- Does the play yard have all the features you need, such as a bassinet attachment, changing table, and storage?
- How easy is the play yard to set up and take down? Will you be able to do it quickly and easily, especially when you’re on the go?
- Is the play yard sturdy and durable? Will it be able to withstand regular use and travel?
- Does the play yard come with a carrying case for easy transport and storage?
- Is the play yard easy to clean and maintain?
- What is the weight limit of the play yard and will it be suitable for your child’s needs?
- What is your budget for a play yard and which options fit within your price range?
Bassinets
Bassinets are a great option for parents who want to keep their newborn close by for the first few months. They are smaller and more portable than cribs, making them a good choice for parents who want to move their baby from room to room or even take them on trips.
Some bassinets also come with features like rocking or vibration settings to help soothe a fussy baby. It’s important to keep in mind that bassinets have weight and age limits, so you’ll need to transition your baby to a crib once they outgrow it.
Note: Be sure to get bassinet sheets that are specific to the one you choose!
Bassinet pros:
- Generally smaller and more lightweight than cribs, making them easy to move around and fit in smaller spaces
- Some come with features like rocking or vibration settings, which can be soothing for babies and help them sleep
- They provide a cozy and snug sleeping environment, which can help newborns feel secure and calm
- Ideal for using in the parent’s room before baby moves to the nursery
Bassinet cons:
- Bassinets have weight limits, so your baby will eventually outgrow it and you will need to transition to a crib
- Some may not meet the same safety standards as cribs, so it’s important to do your research and choose a high-quality model
- Depending on the design, they may not be as easy to clean or maintain as cribs
Crib safety
When choosing a crib for your baby, safety should always be the top priority. Here are some essential safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Safety standards: Ensure that the crib meets the safety standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Look for the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) certification, which indicates that the crib has undergone rigorous safety testing
- Sturdy construction: Opt for a crib with a sturdy frame and secure hardware. Check that all the components are properly aligned and that there are no loose or sharp edges that could pose a hazard to your baby once it is set up
- Crib slats: The spacing between crib slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches (6 cm) to prevent your baby’s head from getting stuck. Ensure that the slats are securely attached and free from any splinters or cracks
- Mattress fit: The crib mattress should fit snugly within the crib frame, leaving no more than two fingers’ width between the mattress and the crib sides. This ensures that your baby won’t get trapped between the mattress and the crib, reducing the risk of suffocation
- Adjustable mattress height: Many cribs feature adjustable mattress heights, allowing you to lower the mattress as your baby grows and becomes more mobile. Start with the highest setting for a newborn and gradually lower it as your baby starts pulling up and standing
- No drop-side cribs: Avoid using drop-side cribs, as they have been banned due to safety concerns. These cribs have a mechanism that allows one or both sides to move up and down, but they pose a risk of entrapment or detachment
- Non-toxic materials: Choose a crib made from non-toxic materials, such as solid wood or metal. Avoid cribs with paint or finishes that contain harmful chemicals like lead or formaldehyde
- Regularly inspect the crib: Look for things like wear and tear, loose screws, or damaged parts
- Make sure the sleep space is safe: Keep soft bedding items, such as pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals, out of the crib to reduce the risk of suffocation or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
How to choose a crib mattress
Selecting the right crib mattress is just as important as choosing the crib itself. Here are some factors to consider when purchasing a crib mattress:
- Size: The mattress should fit snugly within the crib, leaving no gaps between the mattress and the crib sides. Ensure that it meets the standard crib mattress size of 27 1/4 inches by 51 5/8 inches (69 cm by 131 cm)
- Firmness: Opt for a firm mattress that provides ample support for your baby. A firm sleep surface helps reduce the risk of suffocation and promotes safe sleep
- Waterproof and easy to clean: Look for a mattress with a waterproof cover to protect against accidents and spills. It should also be easy to wipe clean to maintain a hygienic sleeping environment
- Breathability: Consider a mattress with good airflow to allow proper ventilation and regulate your baby’s body temperature during sleep
- Organic or non-toxic materials: If you prefer an organic option, look for a crib mattress made from organic materials such as cotton or natural latex. These materials are free from harmful chemicals and allergens
- Hypoallergenic: If your baby has allergies or sensitivities, choose a hypoallergenic mattress that is resistant to allergens like dust mites, mold, and mildew
- Certifications: Look for certifications such as CertiPUR-US® or GREENGUARD Gold, which ensure that the mattress meets strict standards for emissions and chemical content
Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper use and maintenance of the crib mattress. Regularly check for signs of wear and tear, such as sagging or lumps, and replace the mattress if necessary.
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