Baby Crib Mattress Height and Support

Adjustable mattress height is available on all but the most inexpensive cribs. It allows the mattress to be higher in the crib so you can gently lay down a sleeping newborn, then lowered for babies who can pull up. At least two mattress heights is nice, three is even better. Check out the way the mattress is held up. Some cheaper cribs use vinyl straps that could wear out and break. Baby cribs with metal bars are a better choice. The best choice is a metal spring system to support the mattress.

Convertible Baby Cribs?

Convertible baby cribs are attractive to many buyers, but the added expense may not be worth it to some parents. Some baby cribs are convertible to toddler beds, others to full-size adult beds. Most cribs require an extra kit to be fully convertible; ask about the cost before you make your final decision on a convertible baby crib. Also ask yourself whether you'll actually convert the crib or whether you'll reuse the crib for siblings and buy a separate toddler bed. Most toddlers can move right to a twin bed, so you could also skip that step to save money.

Where to Buy a Baby Crib

Baby mega-stores have the largest selection of baby cribs in both price and style. They have a few models in stock, but order others, which can take up to 12 weeks. Order early in case of delays. Many new parents are surprised at how long it takes for their baby's crib to arrive. Local baby shops usually carry premium crib brands at mid to premium prices. They often don't keep cribs in stock, so every crib is a special order. Websites have a wide range of crib brands and models, but shipping might be pricey. If there's a problem, returning the crib also could be difficult. Be clear on return policies before you buy.

Other Baby Crib Buying Choices

Large retailers like Sears have a few crib choices in the middle to low price range. You may have to order your crib. Large discount stores have low prices and baby cribs in stock. Their crib selection is limited, usually to low-end models. Be wary of used cribs. New information on drop-side cribs indicates that re-assembly is often done incorrectly, which can endanger baby. Missing hardware or worn-out pieces are also potential problems. Several crib companies have gone out of business in the past few years, too, meaning you could be stuck with a used, recalled crib and no one that will take it back.