Some unsafe sleeping habits could even contribute to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). That’s why it’s important to consider the following: Tappin D, et al. (2002). Used infant mattresses and sudden infant death syndrome in Scotland: case-control study. Interior dimensions of a full-sized crib (the part that’s inside around the mattress) should be 28 ± 5/8 inches (width) by 52 3/8 ± 5/8 inches (length). While this varies slightly crib to crib, the important part is that the mattress that comes with the crib is a snug fit — no more than two fingers between mattress and crib. It should take effort to make the bed! Even if your crib isn't the most expensive thing you buy for your baby (because a nursery glider and even a full-size stroller can cost more), a crib can feel like the most important piece of baby gear — the star of your unique nursery. When shopping, consider these points:

Use a firm mattress that fits tightly into the crib frame. This ensures there are no gaps between the mattress and crib that would allow your baby to get trapped. But shopping for a crib can be a little daunting. There are so many options and features to choose from — not to mention it’s also one of the more expensive items on your nursery-building shopping list. Plus, if you play your cards right, you might even continue to use it throughout your baby’s childhood years. A bassinet or baby cot is a portable baby crib that comes in especially handy for parents of newborns: it ensures that baby has a dedicated and safe place to sleep close at hand, whether that is by parents’ bedside, or elsewhere in the home over the course of the day – or even on road trips. Some bassinet models have wooden or metal frames with removable baby cot beds. Others have features like storage space, vibration, or white noise – even motion-activated night lights that allow parents to observe their baby without waking them. Other twin baby cribs make great options for grandparents or caregivers: foldable cribs can be stored away when not in use; and metal cribs are often lighter-weight and easier to move than wooden cribs. Parents of twins might also choose to go the double cot or mini crib route: a pair of small cribs are more portable and take up less space than two full size wooden cribs, especially in the early days. An essential registry itemkits: If you're set on turning your crib into a toddler bed or headboard and footboard later, consider buying the conversion kits needed right away, since designs can be phased out over time. You want to ensure you have compatible hardware on hand that was designed specifically for your crib when it's time to convert. Full disclosure: At least anecdotally, we don't know a lot of parents who turn a crib into a headboard and footboard down the line. We do know many who use a crib as a toddler bed. https://www.cpsc.gov/Regulations-Laws--Standards/Rulemaking/Final-and-Proposed-Rules/Full-Size-Cribs One of the neatest features that sets this travel crib apart is the quiet zipper door on the side. This allows you to breastfeed or cuddle your baby to sleep, which is often necessary when staying in unfamiliar places. This portable crib is GreenGuard Gold certified and is made with breathable mesh for optimal airflow. Crib slats that are no more than 2 and 3/8 inches apart. For reference, this is about the width of a soda can — any wider and your baby’s body may easily slip through.

Survey your crib for any loose or broken screws or other hardware pieces essential for proper support. Same goes for broken or missing wood slats. Repair or replace as necessary. The safest crib has only two things inside: a crib mattress covered in a fitted crib sheet. Choose a firm, tight-fitting crib mattress so the baby won't get trapped between the mattress and the crib's sides. Then wrap it in a fitted crib sheet. There are many eco-friendly options for both. Solid full panel designer headboard. Handcrafted accents including detailed turned spindles, Queen Anne style pedestal feet and intricate ribbon bow scrollwork.As an infant, your child will hopefully spend at least half the day inside one of the best cribs on the market (lots of development happens during sleep!). That means that when you're setting up your nursery, you'll definitely want to invest in a piece of furniture that's safe, well constructed and aesthetically pleasing, and a convertible crib is a great option. It can transition with your child from infancy through the toddler years — and potentially into preschool and beyond — since it can convert from a baby crib to a toddler bed, a daybed or a full-size bed's headboard and footboard. Keep in mind that the conversion kits are often sold separately. Also, as you're planning, remember to budget for a crib mattress (sold separately).