Baby Registry Tips & Ideas

How to Choose the Right Crib for Your Nursery

written by Rachel Dorton
Source: Leah Kelley via Unsplash
Source: Leah Kelley via Unsplash

 

There is so much preparation that goes into having a baby – the doctor’s appointments, setting up a registry, showers and so on. And then you have to figure out where the baby will actually sleep.  Often, parents start the journey wistfully looking at nurseries on Pinterest and Instagram.  As your belly grows and the idea of a baby gets more real, you move on to researching colors, furniture and themes.

It’s easy to get caught up in the artwork and paint colors, but the most important part of the nursery is a safe and cozy place for baby to sleep. There’s a lot to think about when it comes to a crib, with safety being paramount. It’s also a question of space. Babies don’t need much room, but they do need a dedicated space when they leave mom and dad’s room.

 

We rounded up a few things you need to research when purchasing a crib.

 

Safety & Quality

Safety is the most important thing to look into when buying a crib and the Consumer Product & Safety Commision is a great place to start. When looking at a crib in person, Consumer Reports recommends shaking the crib “slightly to see if the frame seems loose” and “try rotating each slat to see if it’s well secured to the railings.” When it comes to quality, look into material the crib is made from. Is it solid wood? Composite? What kind of paint or finish is used?

 

Size

Think about your space. Large room? Buy a regular size crib. Shared space or tight on room? Consider a mini crib. Plan out how the crib will fit in your space to make sure you’re happy with the flow. At the end of the day, the most used piece in your nursery is the crib. And all the storage, of course!

 

How Long Do You Plan to Use a Crib?

Most furniture will stay with you for years to come. Unfortunately, your kiddo will outgrow a crib faster than you can imagine. Usually by age 3. Look for cribs that have multiple mattress heights (high for newborns, low for babies and toddlers that can stand). Take note if the crib converts to a toddler bed by taking off one of the sides. Often, toddler bed rails are sold separately. And some cribs even convert to twin or full-size beds.

 

Buy A New Crib, No Hand Me Downs From Before 2011

As of 2011, the Consumer Product Safety Commission required all drop-side crib models be discontinued, as they had been connected to at least 30 deaths in the years prior. You cannot buy a crib with drop sides anymore, but often, families like to pass down nursery pieces. Take the sentimental vintage quilt but pass on the crib if it was manufactured before 2011.

 

And now for our favorite cribs for your baby’s nursery.

 

Investment Pieces That Will Last More Than One Baby

 

Pottery Barn Kids
Emerson Crib

Available for same-day pick up at most Pottery Barn Kids locations.

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Crate and Kids
Taylor Crib

Converts to a toddler bed is made from walnut wood.

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Babyletto
Hudson Crib

Comes in eight color variations including white, natural and grey.

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Pottery Barn Kids
Dawson Crib

Curved railings allow for easy in-and-out accessibility.

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Crate and Kids
Hampshire Crib

Classic spindle design complements any nursery design.

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Great for Small Spaces

 

Stokke
Oval Mini Crib

Comes with four adjustable mattress positions and locking wheels.

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Bloom
Bassinet & Mini Crib

Transitions from bassinet to mini crib and folds for easy storage.

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Babyletto
Gelato Mini Crib

Small footprint works well in shared rooms and small spaces.

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Budget-Friendly Options (Under $250)

 

Ikea
Beech Crib

Only $79!

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Little Seeds
Iron Crib

Antique-inspired iron crib resist scuffs and scratches.

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Union
Convertible Crib

Ships free with Amazon Prime.

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All Modern
Marley Convertible Crib

Under $200 and has over 150 5-star reviews.

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Da Vinci
Jenny Lind Crib

Well-known crib style at a good price.

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