Top Things to Look for When Buying a Convertible Crib

In most cases convertible baby cribs are more expensive than standard cribs, but they have a not-so-hidden benefit that makes them worth the money. Convertible cribs will grow with your child--possibly up to the time he moves away to college and breaks his mother's heart.

The beauty of convertible cribs is that they can transform into different types of beds, depending on your needs.

They start out as CRIBS,

move on to TODDLER BEDS when your little one reaches two or so,

become DAYBEDS if you decide to buy your child a racecar bed instead,

and convert into FULL SIZE BEDS when your little one is ready for a "big boy" (or "big girl") bed.

I think we can all agree that safety is the #1 priority we look for in any crib. No matter how great a deal something seems, saving a few dollars is not worth risking your baby's life.

The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission has issued guidelines for what to look for in a safe crib. If you live outside of the United States, your laws may vary, but the end goal is the same--to protect your child.

First of all, the crib must have a firm, tight-fitting mattress so the baby cannot get trapped between the mattress and the crib. Mattresses are included with some convertible cribs, while other must be purchased separately. Getting a mattress that was made for that particular crib is usually the easiest way to ensure it fits properly.

Second, none of the hardware or slats should be loose, broken, or missing. Any kind of splintering or sharp objects can be dangerous to your baby. Loose or broken slats can help your baby fall out of the crib and are a real danger when your child can pull himself up.

Third, corner posts should not be any higher than 1/16 of an inch. This precaution helps keep your baby's clothing from getting caught.

Finally, slats should be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart (about the width of a soda can). This distance ensures that your child is protected from falling out and from getting his head stuck between the rails. This is also the reason there should not be any cutout designs in the headboard or footboard.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is still investigating the risk of drop-side cribs, but they warn parents that many models are dangerous. Over time and with daily use, the hinges, glue, and wood can fail. Your child is then at a risk of injury, suffocation, or being trapped between the stationary and mobile sides. The best advice is to choose a convertible crib with stationary sides.

When you are shopping around for the best prices, you also need to understand what is included in the box. For example, the Delta Soho 5-in-1 Convertible Crib is a popular model, but it does not come with the conversion kit (it can be purchased separately). Some parents have become frustrated because they thought they had all the parts, and then they had to go find something else.

Does your convertible crib include...

• mattress
• full size bed rail kit
• headboard
• footboard
• toddler rail
• all necessary parts
• assembly instructions
• customer support if you get stuck
  

Today's convertible cribs come in a variety of styles and colors to suit your tastes and look great in your nursery.

• Modern
• Traditional
• Eco-friendly
• Designer
• Mini/Portable

Color options include:

• White
• Black
• Light woods
• Medium woods
• Dark woods
• Colored