How to Choose a Crib Style

There are thousands of cribs on the market today. With so much choice, it may actually make it more difficult to decide on one for your nursery. But a few simple decisions can narrow your options significantly so you can select a crib style that reflects the theme and tone you want to establish in your child’s room.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide between a 4-sided and round crib. Round cribs are gaining in popularity, which means they’re more readily available. This choice will determine other things as well, including your selection of crib bedding.
2. Narrow your choice further. If you choose a 4-sided crib, the next decision is between traditional and convertible models. The difference is that a convertible crib does what its name implies: converts to a twin bed, day bed and/or full bed.
3. Determine whether a drop side is important to you. If you’re tall, it may not be a big deal, but if you’re short, trying to lean over the side may not be comfortable day in and day out.
4. Shop for models that fit your choice. Now that you have your crib choice narrowed down significantly, there are still dozens of little decisions to make. Do you want metal or wood? A painted design that matches your nursery theme? An old world or modern style?
5. Make your purchase. Once you’ve bought a crib, which is typically the centerpiece of a nursery, you can continue to make other decorating decisions around it.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to use an heirloom or handmade crib, make sure it conforms to the same standards that U.S. manufacturers must adhere to. Some of them include: crib slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, corner posts no higher than 1/16- inch high, and no design cutouts in the headboard or footboard.
• If you purchase a convertible crib, make sure that you buy the conversion kit at the same time.
• Some people maintain that round cribs are actually safer than four-sided cribs because there are no corners for baby to get stuck in and you’re able to see your baby from every vantage.
• Remember to send in the product registration card that comes with your crib. That allows the manufacturer to contact you in case of a recall.