Out of all the articles of baby furniture, the crib is the most important. Baby cribs need to conform to various standards and there can be no compromise in the choice of material, durability, safety and comfort.

A baby crib has to meet the US Consumer Product Safety Commission standards and must be designed to protect a baby from injuries. The ideal baby crib is made of strong and sturdy wood or wrought iron or injection-molded plastic. An important aspect of baby cribs is that they must not have sharp edges or loose fittings. All corners need to be well rounded to ensure that a baby does not hurt while prancing around in the crib.

Some cribs come with a canopy, while some have a half top or no top at all. The type of crib you purchase is an individual decision, but if a crib has a top from which a toy can be dangled, it can help to keep a baby occupied.

Cribs are also available drawers attached to the bottom. This is very useful for storing items that a baby uses frequently like clothing or toys.

There are cribs that can be converted into a junior sized bed, as well as round, square and triangular cribs. Crib bedding can be elaborate or a simply bed sheet and blanket. It is recommended that bedding is kept simple to eliminate the threat of smothering a baby. All fancy coverings should be removed before placing a baby in the crib, and there should be no pillows or stuffed animals that could potentially prevent the baby from breathing properly.