Cribs - Choosing a Baby Crib

TYPES OF BABY CRIBS
There are a lot of different types of baby cribs available on the market today and the terminology can be tricky to figure out. Choosing a crib will become easier once you determine the best fit for your family. The first step is deciding how long you want this crib to last and how much you have in your budget for a crib. Cribs are an investment; therefore it is important to know your spending limit before you start shopping. Crib life is also an important factor. Your infant will outgrow a bassinet or cradle after about three to four months, while different types of cribs will last until your baby is about two years old. The following are baby crib descriptions that will help guide you when you are ready to purchase a crib.

1. Bassinets or Cradles

A bassinet or cradle is designed so that you can rock your baby back and forth.

Pros
• Ideal for a newborn
• Small enough to keep by your bedside (convenient for nursing)
• Safer than co-sleeping

Cons
• Babies outgrow bassinets quickly

Expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $1,000 on a bassinet. Affordable brands include Eddie Bauer, Fisher-Price, Graco, and Kolcraft.

2. Portable Cribs

Portable cribs are much smaller, less expensive, collapse for easy transport, and are ideal for traveling, but shouldn't replace a normal crib for everyday use.

Pros
• Easy to move (perfect for taking on trips/vacations)
• Convenient and safe for napping
• Double as changing stations or play pens for older babies

Cons
• Don't provide the same safety aspects that other cribs do

Graco is the leading brand name in portable cribs. Graco portable cribs cost anywhere from $80 to $160.

3. Standard Cribs and Convertible Cribs

A standard crib is the most basic crib type and can come with or without drop sides. A variation of the standard crib is the convertible crib, which converts from a standard crib to a toddler crib, then into a small day bed, and some even convert to a full-size head and footboards.

Pros
• Convertible cribs can be used as a child enters adulthood

Cons
• More expensive than other cribs (but a long-term investment)

For an all-around great convertible crib, look for DaVinci cribs. The Kalani is their most popular model. They cost approximately $300 and can easily convert from a baby crib to a toddler bed; which incorporates railings and allows your baby to be nearer to the ground.

4. Twin Cribs

A great alternative for a family expecting twins can be the corner crib.

Pros
• Great for a small space
• Cribs can be put side by side or in different corners of the same room

Cons
• Some require special bedding

The most common corner brand is Baby Trilogy, which was recommended by TWINS magazine. This crib offers a feeling of comfort for you and your two newborns. The Baby Trilogy corner crib is about $250 and does require special bedding.

5. Organic Cribs

Organic cribs are starting to become increasingly popular. They are made from organic materials

Pros
• Chemical-free environment for baby
• Often last longer than cribs made from other materials
• Come in a variety of shapes and elaborate designs

Cons
• More expensive than other cribs

The Cariboo bassinets can usually be found for under $200, while the Kuster Cribs are all over $1,000. The price is high but Organic Cribs are made from organic materials, providing your baby with a chemical-free environment and they often last longer than other crib types.

COMMON CRIB STYLES & FEATURES
There are as many styles of baby cribs as there are home designs: traditional, modern, contemporary... the issue is never one of available selection. More likely, it will be an issue of not becoming overwhelmed by your choices. The following are classic designs that have stood the test of time.

1. Sleigh Crib

The sleigh baby crib is a very simple, classic style. It can be a great addition in both traditional and contemporary nurseries. A sleigh crib starts at about $200 and goes up depending on the size, design and model. Almost every crib brand makes a sleigh crib, so the brand choice is up to you. A Da Vinci Anastasia crib has two drawers for easy storage, an intricate panel and foot design, and an adjustable mattress that can grow with your newborn.

2. Jenni Lind Crib

A Jenni Lind Crib is similar to a sleigh crib in its classic elegance. "Jenni Lind" refers to the design style of its turned, knobby legs and posts. Jenni Lind cribs are about $100 and can work in any nursery but have a tendency to be used in more traditional settings because it has a bit more ornamentation.

3. Modern Crib

Modern cribs tend to be more minimalist. They come in almost any color or stain so that it is easy to match the crib with the baby's new room. Often, a designer will have a small accent or detail that is picked up in other pieces of a coordinating furniture set. If matching is important to you, you may consider pairing it with its coordinating changing table or dresser. The Q Collection offers several styles of modern cribs and can range in price from $150 to $900. The entire Q Collection is chemical-free and the mattresses all adjust to different levels depending on your baby's age and size.

4. Round Crib

Round cribs make a strong design statement. This crib type is convenient to reach your baby from all sides and can be placed in the middle of the room as well. Round cribs can add a different element to your nursery and can be great if you are planning on having your infant share a room with you. Round cribs can come with or without a canopy and usually include one drop side. They cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000. The Little Angel Line is a popular brand for round cribs.

5. Drop Sides

The function of a crib is also an important factor to look at. Many cribs offer drop-side options which can be very helpful when taking your infant in and out of the crib. A crib can come with a single-drop or double-drop sides that slide down or a drop-gate.

Understanding the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) safety standards are a good idea when looking at drop-side crib options. The CPSC has warned that drop-side cribs may be a safety concern and are coming out with new safety standards. To ensure that your crib's drop sides are safe, make sure they are operated with a locking, hand-operated latch that can not be released easily.

6. Wheels

Other functions include crib wheels, which can be helpful if you are planning on moving the crib from the baby nursery to your room. Also, bumper guards and padding, teething rails, and sleep positioners may be features you want to look in to for your infant.

BABY CRIB SAFETY STANDARDS
All cribs on the market have to pass the CPSC to be considered safe for your baby. There are also additional standards that the crib can meet if they provide extra safety elements like the Juvenile Products Manufacture's Association (JPMS). All cribs will be labeled with this information. The most important factor when determining if a crib is safe is making sure your baby crib has not been recalled.

A few things to check for before you purchase a crib:

1. Make sure that the crib bars are not too far apart from each other and are high enough to ensure that your baby will not get stuck or be able to get out on their own.
2. The baby mattress should be the right size for the crib and fit into the space provided.
3. If you are purchasing a used crib, make sure that the bars and screws are in good shape and are not worn out.
4. Periodically check the crib to make sure there are no rough or sharp edges.
5. Be sure to use crib sheets and baby blankets in the crib to ensure further safety for your newborn.

The most important thing is making sure that you feel good about the crib you are purchasing and can sleep soundly knowing your baby is sleeping in a safe environment.

CHOOSING THE BEST CRIB
Baby cribs are an investment for your family and infant. Your infant will spend a lot of time in the crib so make sure that you choose a safe, comfortable crib for your new infant. You will worry less knowing that your infant is sleeping soundly in their crib.

The bottom line is, it's important to make a decision that's right for you! Use this guide to put you in the right state of mind and think about your family dynamic and what type of sleeping arrangement you want to have and plan your crib purchase around that. Make sure the crib you purchase is also in your family budget. If you feel that the crib will fit with your parenting style and family, then that's the crib for you.

Enjoy decorating your baby's nursery. Make it a space that you enjoy spending time in with your baby!

Co-authored by Ria Sharon from MyMommyManual and Maggie Fairchild.