A convertible crib is a bed that grows with your child.For a parent trying to find the resources both of time and money,the convertible crib will have many advantages over regular cribs.
Kalani Crib by Da Vinci
Not all convertible cribs"convert"the same way.Some will only go as far as converting into toddler beds,some convert into daybeds,while others that convert into twin or full size beds,can be used by your child from infancy well into adult years.When they leave home for college,these beds can be used in guest rooms,or accompany them to college dorms.
Some of these cribs are easy to convert to toddler mode simply by removing one side.At that point the bed still bears the basic look of the crib.The close resemblance it still bears to the crib means toddlers may adjust more easily,and have an easier time transitioning to a new bed.
Things to Consider Be aware that you may most likely to have purchase additional parts that as a rule do not come with a convertible crib.Parts such as additional bed rails,stabilizing rails,or support rails(for converting to a full-size bed)will have to purchased separately.I would purchase these additions at the same time as the crib,because that particular model may be discontinued and it could be hard to find something that fits at a later date.The convertible crib may cost a little more than an ordinary crib initially,but you will get more years of use out of it.Choose a color and style that will not seem too babyish as the child grows older.
If you are looking for a bed that grows with your child,here are 3 popular choices for a convertible crib.
Sleepi MiniCrib System by Stokke
Kalani Crib by Da Vinci
An inexpensive option for a convertible crib is something like the Kalani Crib,which grows with your child.It starts out as a crib,which transitions into a toddler bed.For even more years of use,the included full size headboard and footboard can be combined with a full bed rail kit(sold separately)to create a beautiful full size bed.Your teenager can use it,or simply move it to the guest room.The crib sells for about$309,but you will have to pay extra for the full rail set.
Oeuf Sparrow Crib
For a modern European look,you might want to take a look at Oeuf Sparrow Crib.Made in Europe from solid birch,the Sparrow Crib is easy to assemble and safe.It is solidly constructed and has a subtle color.A simple conversion kit is available to convert the crib into a toddler bed when you need to.The Sparrow Crib has a non-toxic lacquer finish.It comes in standard full-size crib dimensions with a 3-position mattress support and meets all U.S and Canadian safety standards.The Oeuf Sparrow Crib sells for about$690.
Stokke Sleepi MiniCrib System
Sleepi from Stokke starts out as an oval shaped bassinet for the new born,and gradually,as the baby grows,parts can be added to make it into a larger crib.The mattress height can be lowered when the baby is old enough to reach over the sides.As the child grows older and is ready to transition from a crib,you can turn it into a toddler bed.This particular system comes with two different sized mattresses.
Finally,after your child outgrows that bed,it can be disassembled and put back together as two chairs that can be used for a long time.This Sleepi crib systems comes with two mattresses,one for the bassinet and one for the crib.
