Guide to Choosing a Crib

The birth of a baby requires a new organisation of space to provide a comfortable and safe environment for the new arrival. The layout of the room and, in particular, the choice of the right crib contribute to the creation of a cosy nest, in which the little one can feel protected.

However, finding your way around the various models on the market is not always so simple: let’s find out together how to choose a crib for a newborn baby, what the main types are and the most important aspects to consider.

The first element to consider when figuring out which baby crib to choose should always be safety. When purchasing, it is necessary to ensure that the product complies with the European standard UNI EN 716-1:2019, which certifies its reliability and conformity to certain requirements.

In particular, it requires that the sliding side rail control mechanisms respect the minimum height of 60 cm from the bed base and that they reach a height of 20 cm from the mattress when lowered. Furthermore, the distance between one side rail and the other must not be less than 6 cm and never more than 7.5 cm, and the edges must be at least 30 cm high. In addition to the safety factor, there are three other decisive aspects to consider when purchasing:

• Typology. Basically, there are three types to choose from when purchasing. The standard models are equipped with a lowerable side rail and a storage drawer for storing the baby’s sheets and linen; those that can be converted into a crib are instead designed to accompany the baby as he or she grows, a practical and economical choice that allows you to save on the purchase of a second product within a few months. The third option is offered by the co-sleeping or bedside cribs, also known as bedside cribs, which are equipped with a removable side rail, which, once lowered, allows them to be placed side by side and attached to the double bed, facilitating visual contact with parents. Thanks to a height-adjustable frame, they avoid creating any kind of height difference with the double bed, while the folding feet allow them to be brought closer to beds with drawers.

• Versatility. One of the features to take into account when choosing a crib is certainly its manoeuvrability: the best models are versatile and easy to transport from one place to another, in most cases equipped with wheels and a latch to prevent the baby from moving around and jumping. Models with a foldable structure also allow it to be disassembled from time to time to load it into the car and transport it out of the house in case of need.

• Materials. Another decisive aspect when choosing a crib is certainly the materials. One of the best options in terms of quality is definitely natural wood, neither painted nor treated; other advantageous solutions can be bamboo, rattan, or wicker.

• Accessories. Last but not least, it is important to consider the accessories provided: it is very useful to buy a baby crib that is already fully equipped with a mattress, bumper, sheets, and pillow. Further optional extras can be curtains and insect nets, which are often useful to protect the baby from insect bites and create a dark area for daytime naps. Finally, the presence of a play bow or hanging toys can be advantageous to entertain the little one or encourage them to fall asleep.

If the choice of a crib is an important step for the new parent, the transition to the little bed is an equally difficult decision. When should you move the baby from the crib to the bed?

Actually, there is not a single answer; in some cases, the transition takes place from the fifteenth month, and sometimes it is possible to wait until the third year of age.

The transition to the little bed with bars generally takes place around 6 months of age, but most crib models on the market can be used at least until the child weighs 9 kg, a weight that is generally reached around 9 months and more rarely around one year of age. However, there are certain requirements and objective conditions that make it possible to understand when to move the baby from the crib to the bed: first of all, when the safety conditions are no longer met, and the baby tends to move out of the space in which he sleeps.

A second condition concerns the child’s weight or height: sudden growth can make the space inadequate and require the transition to the bed sooner than expected, which is generally reached between 18 months and 3 years of age.

In conclusion, choosing the ideal baby bed is a balance between safety, comfort, and practicality. Considering these aspects will ensure a peaceful and safe sleep for the child and peace of mind for the parents.