Baby Crib Shopping – Quick Reference Guide

Where should you begin?

The crib, it is such an important piece of baby furniture, and new parents have a plethora of types, styles, materials, colors,and features to choose from these days. It can be an exhausting task just to shop for furniture, particularly with the long “to do” list that first-time parents experience in preparation for the little one’s arrival.

Not to fret, here’s a fast reference guide on the important items and data you need to know when shopping for a baby crib.

Types of Cribs:

The most popular crib types on the market today are classic standard, mini, convertible, and portable, or combo types.

Standard Type: The most popular kind of crib on the market, this type has stationary,non-adjustable sides with headboard and foot-board enclosures to ensure the baby’s utmost safety.

Convertible Type: This crib serves a more extended purpose, in a few years, it converts into a toddler bed, removable sides and an adjustable height, accommodates a child as they grow.
Mini Type: The smaller version of a standard crib which makes it ideal for small places. Some mini models are able to be taken apart or folded for easy transfer.
Portable Type: For the family that’s on the go, a portable crib typically has caster wheels so you can easily move the crib from room to room. They also have models that can be taken apart or folded when not in usage. Additionally, it is simpler to store if you plan to move or keep it for the next baby.
Combos - Crib with Changer: A two in one furniture piece that’s perfect for saving on space in a small room. The clever design makes it convenient for parents to safely change their infant with little effort, transporting the baby from the crib to the changing table a short distance These models usually have storage drawers underneath for easy access to baby necessities and linens.

Style of Cribs:

You can opt for a simple, classic style crib in neutral colors, this crib model works with many color palettes and décor styles.

In addition to a traditional classic style there are so many choices to select from such as contemporary, shabby-chic, farmhouse, rustic, craftsman,Victorian, or Danish-modern.

The materials and finish options are also boundless, opt for painted or stained woods, painted metals, upholstered fabric, or laminates.

Crib Safety:

Your baby’s safety is of the greatest importance, and it’s highly advisable to buy baby furniture that is certified by the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA).

Here are some of the Guidelines BabySafetyZone.org recommends:

Make certain there are NO missing parts/screws, sharp edges, protruding metal on the crib.
Do NOT use a drop-sided crib.
NEVER leave items draped or hooked on the corners or sides of the crib.