Choosing the right crib is a crucial step in the planning of a nursery. Once parents have decided on the size and shape of their crib, they will be able to choose the matching furniture and décor wisely. It is a special moment for new mothers to install a crib and put it in the nursery. At this point, she will begin to imagine her adorable baby, dreaming softly in a well-prepared safe room.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has made a number of recommendations for crib placement. For your baby’s safety and comfort, the crib should not be placed near a radiator or other heat source to prevent your baby’s sleeping area from getting too hot. In addition, the crib should be kept away from windows to avoid direct sunlight and drafts, which will also help ensure that the baby cannot reach any ropes on the blinds and curtains.
When choosing a crib, parents need to consider the space available, the time they will be used, and lifestyle choices (as some cribs can be used as travel furniture). Other considerations include style and material preference.
The Type of Crib
Standard Baby Cot
Pros: Some babies like to have a little extra room to stretch, especially as they get older. A standard crib will provide plenty of space for your baby’s comfort. Standard cribs are very popular and are available in a variety of models, styles, and finishes to suit the décor of the nursery. Most standard cribs have at least three layers and sometimes four layers of mattress height that can be adjusted as the baby grows, meaning that these cribs can usually be used until the child is ready to use the toddler bed.
Cons: Standard cribs (as opposed to crib alternatives like minicots and bassinets) take up a lot of space. Standard cribs are usually more expensive and more complex to assemble and disassemble than smaller beds, and they are not easy to move after assembly.
Convertible Baby Cot
Pros: As the baby grows, convertible cribs provide options for parents. Once the baby grows older than the crib age, the convertible model will transform into another bed type. The possible goal here is for parents to save some money in the long run, plan ahead when the baby will need a crib, etc. Some models can be converted into toddler beds, sofa beds, or even full-size beds. Convertible crib models are a popular choice and are easy to find in baby furniture stores.
Cons: Convertible cribs have a higher upfront cost. Conversion rails are sold separately, which will be an additional cost later. In addition, parents can consider purchasing conversion rails immediately as the rail kit will become unavailable if/when the model is discontinued. Depending on the brand and style, convertible cribs can be much more expensive than standard cribs after purchasing all the rails, tools, and even a new mattress for some models. Additionally, some parents find convertible cribs more difficult to set up than standard cribs.
Note: One of the first factors parents consider when choosing a convertible crib is how many features are included in each particular model. Usually, convertible cribs are labeled as 2-in-1, 3-in-1, 4-in-1, etc. 2-in-1 models typically include a crib form and toddler bed setup options. Some beds even include a 5-in-1 option, which includes two configurations of a full-size bed (with or without footrests). Parents should also consider the price and availability of conversion kits (some kits may need to be ordered), as well as whether special tools are required.
Portable Baby Cot
Pros: Portable cribs are sometimes referred to as “mini cribs”. As the name suggests, many of these cribs are smaller than standard cribs, making them ideal for families sharing rooms and limited space, and they tend to be more affordable options as well. In addition, these cribs come with convenient features for easy carrying and storage.
Cons: The top drawbacks of portable cribs include comfort and longevity. Some parents are concerned that portable crib mattresses are too thin and easily damaged. It is important to note that the U.S. federal government regulates the size of all standard crib mattresses, and these regulations indicate that mattress thickness must not exceed six inches. However, a damaged mattress is a different story. If the crib mattress is damaged and does not fit securely in the crib frame, it creates a hazard and needs to be replaced. Almost all portable cribs offer two mattress height adjustments, while most full-size cribs typically offer four or three mattress height adjustments.
Multi-functional Baby Cot
Pros: Multi-purpose (or “combo”) cribs include additional features such as cupboards and/or changing tables. There are different shelving or drawer storage options available. Many multi-purpose cribs are also convertible, which helps alleviate some of the high price points.
Disadvantages: One of the main problems with multipurpose cribs is that there is a risk of falling if the baby pulls up and climbs onto the dresser/changing table surface. Some babies are natural climbers, and the side walls of the cabinet can provide enough grip to facilitate an early escape. Some parents also find that the space for a diaper changing table (especially those enclosed with high railings) is small and quickly becomes inadequate. The included storage space is often not enough to hold all of the baby’s clothes, so additional furniture may be required, and this can have a huge impact on the nursery space due to the extra-wide footprint of the multi-purpose crib.
Note: Parents need to measure carefully, as these cribs tend to be the biggest choice. Consider a variety of shelving options and look for combinations with under-bed drawers and side cabinets to get the most out of your storage options.
Round Crib
Pros: Round cribs are available in two shapes, round and oval. Parents interested in round cribs are likely to be attracted by its aesthetic qualities. The round crib is an undeniable design statement in a nursery. In addition, many round cribs have a smaller overall footprint than standard cribs without sacrificing too much sleeping surface. The lack of nooks and nooks provides options for nursery layouts, allowing parents to think outside the box when it comes to crib placement. A standard rectangular crib is usually pushed back against the wall and can only be accessed from one long side, but a round crib can be placed decoratively in the middle of the room for easy access from all sides. Also, from a safety perspective, parents tend to appreciate designs that don’t have sharp corners. There are some (limited) convertible round crib options. Some convertible crib models can even be turned into playpens!
Disadvantages: The choice of round cribs is not as common as that of rectangular cribs. Their uniqueness is often accompanied by a higher price. The perfect mattress can be harder to find than a standard rectangular crib mattress. While placement choices may be more dynamic due to the smaller footprint of a round crib, its shape can appear awkward and cramped in a small nursery space.
Note: If there are long babies in the house, parents who are interested in round cribs can consider oval-shaped cribs with slightly longer lengths. When buying a round crib, parents need to pay close attention to the fit of the mattress. These cribs are more likely to come with a custom-made mattress. Just like a rectangular crib, a round crib mattress should fit snugly against all crib side rails. This is important to ensure that the baby is trapped in the gap or space between the mattress and the sides of the crib.
Choose the Crib That Best Suits Your Budget
The price of a crib varies greatly depending on the brand and style. Lower-cost cribs can cost around $150, and higher-priced cribs can cost up to $800 or more. Many of the best cribs cost around $200-$300, but the deluxe version is much more expensive.
Influencing factors include the type of wood or other material used to build the crib, finish, style, brand, retailer, and extra features. Additional costs include mattresses (usually not included, except for portable cribs and some round cribs) and conversion kits and tools (if applicable). Finding the best crib mattress can also be a challenge for your budget – expect to pay an extra $150-$300 for a crib mattress. Be sure to check out our reviews of the best crib mattresses to find quality, safe, comfortable, and affordable crib mattresses! Convertible cribs are usually the next price point, followed by multi-purpose cribs. The price of a professional round crib is usually equal to or higher than the average price of a multi-purpose crib.
Crib Safety Tips
Create a Safe Sleeping Environment
If the crib does not come with a mattress, parents should ensure that the mattress size chosen is precisely the size of the crib. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the mattress should be very firm and should not sag due to the baby’s weight. The sheets should fit snugly to the mattress size. “The top of the crib railing should be at least 26 inches from the top of the mattress. Parents should look for cribs with a variety of mattress heights to gradually lower the mattress as your baby grows taller.
The distance between the slats or railings around the crib should not exceed 2 3/8 inches. The sleeping space inside the crib should be empty and free of pillows, blankets, or toys. In addition, parents should completely avoid using cushioning that is tied to or otherwise supports the slats or sides of the crib. A statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) said, “Crib bumpers are only cosmetic; In fact, science clearly shows that crib bumpers pose a serious choking hazard to children, and the evidence has grown since the CPSC first began examining the issue in 2012. In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that the headboard and footboard of a crib should be sturdy and free of decorative cut-outs to avoid fingers and limbs being pinched. Cribs should not include corner posts, as they may snag on clothing and cause safety issues.
Are Antique Cribs Safe?
Antiques and other second-hand cribs may appeal to parents for a variety of reasons, including sentimentality, saving money, and finding styles that are no longer available on the current market. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics warns that “antique cribs may look beautiful, but the spacing between slats rarely meets the current standard of 2 3/8 inches or less, which is to prevent the baby’s head from getting stuck.” In addition, the finish may also include old layers of lead paint.”
Maintain a Safe Space for a Crib
Since parents believe that the crib protects their child, it is essential to keep the crib safely maintained. Many parents choose to reuse the crib for the second child, third child, etc. The cost considerations are obvious – babies are expensive!but it’s important to put safety first. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recall dossier, more than 2007 different crib recalls were issued between 2011 and 20.