Buying a crib is a big ticket baby purchase and one that you’ll probably have to live with for at least a couple years. The biggest considerations are safety and durability, but comfort and aesthetics are important, too.

DaVinci 4-in-1 Convertible Crib

This crib is quite popular, partially due to the high recommendation by Consumer Reports, who named it a number 2 top pick for safety and quality. It is also rather sturdy, and weighs in at 60 pounds. One feature that bodes well for safety is that there are no moving parts and the side rail is not a drop rail, a feature that has been associated with numerous recent crib recalls. The finish is also non-toxic, which is important when baby is standing and begins to inevitably chew on the wood parts.

Another big plus for this crib is the ease of use. First, most parents find it simple enough to assemble, although working in pairs will probably make the process easier. The four level mattress spring system provides a nice amount of flexibility and even shorter parents find it simple to access baby.

Of course, a huge advantage to the DaVinci is the convertible system, going from crib, to toddler bed, to daybed to full-sized bed. The toddler bed includes a guard rail, and the full-sized bed has a side rail.

Potential problems include the wood being soft pine, which is easily scratched. Some parents have also reported that their children have gotten arms or legs stuck in the sides of the crib. A number of parents found the standard mattress to be of less than high quality.

Stork Craft 4-in-1 Stages Crib

This crib has three adjustable levels for the mattress system, and is also a convertible system, taking child from crib, to toddler bed, to daybed to a full-sized bed.

Safety features include a stable fixed side rail construction, and the crib does meet all Canadian and US safety standards.

The crib while attractive is also well-made and isn’t particularly prone to scratches or damage to the wood...

Is your child ready to start transitioning from crib to toddler bed? If he is frequently climbing out of his crib or if he is 36 inches tall or more, it may be that time. This is a big moment for you and your child as he takes another step closer toward independence and you see your child growing up right before your eyes.

The Right Time

So, how do you know that it's the right time? Suddenly realizing that you have an escape artist is a good clue. Most children make the transition to a big kid bed somewhere between one and a half and three and a half years old. Usually when a child is about 36 inches tall she is considered big enough leave her crib behind. If she is big enough to climb out she can get hurt or get stuck dangling from the crib rail.

Another clue that your child is ready is if he has learned to use the toilet. He will appreciate being able to get up on his own during the night if he needs to. If he has to call for help, he may have an accident which is frustrating for you and for him.

There is no reason to rush your child to move to a toddler bed however. You can extend the use of her crib by lowering the mattress as low as it can go. Don't forget to remove the bumper pad as soon as your child starts climbing. Some parents like using a mesh crib tent to keep their child from escaping. However, this can also pose a danger because it can be difficult to remove in an emergency.

A New Baby

Maybe you feel that you have to move your child to a new bed because you have a new baby on the way. There are two ways to handle this situation. One is to start several months before the new baby is due to help you child adjust to a new bed.

It may not be a good idea to tell him that he needs to give his crib to the baby. He may end up resenting the baby for taking his things. Just allow him the excitement of getting something new and being a big kid without the pressure of having to grow up before the baby comes.

You could also consider allowing him to transition after the baby comes. Most likely the baby will start out sleeping in a bassinette anyhow. This will allow your older child a few more months in his crib. This is a good option if your child is very young and may not be emotionally ready to make such a big change.

Making the Change

When you are sure that you and your child are ready to make a change in beds, be sure to take it slow. There are many ways to do this and only you can decide which one is the best way for your child.

One option is to simply place the crib mattress on the floor. This way you won't have to worry about your child falling from her bed. Put the mattress in the same place as the crib was set up so everything will feel the same as it did before.

You can also try buying a toddler bed. This is a great option because you don't have to buy a new mattress; the crib mattress fits perfectly. Take your child along to pick out his new bed. There are many styles to choose from and he will love to ...