Choosing a Crib

What Kind of Crib Do I Need?

A crib, also known as a baby bed, will be approximately 28” wide and 52” long. Since your child will be sleeping in one from birth to the toddler years, the crib you choose should as safe and as comfortable as possible.

Baby Crib Safety

Every crib on the market today will comply with industry and voluntary safety standards. These standards ensure that the crib you purchase will be safe, and will regulate features like the space between each slat and hidden hardware. There are a wide variety of styles and materials to choose from, including cribs that can be converted to toddler and twin size beds as your child grows.

Select safety-standard furniture with rounded corners that is practical and easy to keep clean.
Ensure the crib mattress sits flush against the sides to eliminate any extra room that could lead to injury or harm.
Never place pillows or thick blankets in a baby's sleep environment.
Select paints and finishes for that are lead-free and non-toxic.
Never place a crib near a window with blind, monitor or curtain cords.

Crib Styles

The most common type of crib is the standard crib. This classic design is sometimes combined with a baby changing table for an all-in-one option. Consider selecting a standard crib with an adjustable mattress mechanism that will allow you to alter the mattress height as your baby grows.

Convertible Cribs

A convertible crib is a standard crib that can be converted into a toddler bed; some models can even be changed into a day bed for use by an older child or an overnight guest. This type of convertible crib designed for multiple uses can be expensive; however, it might be more economical in the long run, since it will eliminate purchasing a new bed for each of your child’s developmental stages. Multiple styles are available; it is common to find 2 in 1 cribs, 3 in 1 cribs, or even 4 in one cribs depending on your needs.

Depending on the manufacturer, the conversion rails and footboard attachments that convert it from a crib to a day bed might be optional and not included in the price: check product descriptions for specific details before buying.

Mini Cribs & Portable Cribs

Mini cribs and portable cribs have many of the same features as a standard crib, while being smaller and lighter. These kinds of cribs are ideal space savers; some models are foldable or collapsible, making them easy to store and convenient for traveling. Mini and portable cribs can be up to 35 percent smaller than standard cribs. They also generally feature casters or wheels for mobility and practicality. Some mini and portable cribs will come with the mattress included, and others will not, depending upon the brand and the manufacturer. For portable cribs designed specifically for travel, ensure that the cardboard base is well-padded or there is enough room to add an additional mattress to make it more comfortable for your child.

Combination Cribs

Combination cribs combine the crib with another nursery element like a dresser or changing table. This can be a handy and money-saving choice,especially for those with a small nursery.

Sleigh Cribs

Sleigh cribs are standard cribs based on the Victorian sleigh bed style, while combining traditional elements with contemporary comfort. Typically, these cribs will be slightly taller than standard cribs, and have curved headboards and footboards. Detailing such as carved lines and inset panels can add interest and sophistication to a baby’s room. Even though this type of bed is most closely associated with the traditional style, sleigh cribs come in a variety of different finishes, including lighter ones that will fit in with any nursery décor, both classic and modern.

Crib Materials

When choosing a crib for your baby's room or nursery, style is important, but how its made and how durable it will be should also be a consideration. A crib should be strong and stable; it shouldn't wobble or shake. Available in a variety of types and materials, many manufacturers make cribs that include levelers.

Considered to be the most durable material for furniture, solid wood furnishings are constructed from wood cut from the trunks of trees like pine, mahogany or oak. They are more expensive than engineered wood or laminate products. If your budget allows for a crib set made of solid wood, it will be a treasure that you can enjoy for many years.

Metals are a popular material for cribs because they are strong and easy to keep clean. While metal cribs in general are strong and sturdy, hollow metal tubing is generally less stable than wrought iron.

Crib Colors

Choose your new crib based on the colors of your nursery. A wide range of wide colors are available, ensuring a great fit with any color scheme. Go for light maple or dark espresso. Opting for a white crib is always a great choice while shades of blue are always in style for a boy's nursery. Let your imagination run wild! Cymax has the perfect crib for you at the right price.