Choosing a crib: do you really need one with a side that lowers?

Question

We are expecting our first baby, May 1, and we are choosing a crib. We have seen several models that convert to a toddler bed and then a full-size adult bed with headboard and footboard.

The drawback is that these convertible cribs do not have a "drop" side. In other words, the side of the drib does not move and cannot be raised or lowered to take the baby in and out. The saleswoman didn't think this was a problem, but I have no idea? There are three matress settings so the matress height on the crib is adjustable.

I like the idea of the convertible crib. Will it be hard to take baby in and out? what do you think?

PS we plan on using a basinette for the first three months anyway.

Answer 1

The drop side is not necessary, just very convenient as the child gets older and the mattress gets lower.

I have two kids, one 2 1/2, the other ten months. We looked at a lot of cribs and we never saw any that did not have the drop side, including the convertible ones. We have a convertible crib for my daughter and it has a drop side. I think perhaps you need to look again. The displays are not always clear, and a lot of salespeople, especially ones who work on commission, will lie if they don't know an answer.

Answer 2

I had the same questions when my one and only little sunshine was born. I think the convertible crib is good in theory. Only theory....I have a twin who also had a baby one year before I did. This was her option.
Now our children are 4 and 6, looking back the reason the convertible option isn't the best was the ware and tear your convertible crib goes through. She bought a high priced one figuring it would be worth the money in the long run...She used it for the toddle bed, but shortly afterward had to buy another one.
So in the end it was a wast of money...The toddler bed is just very temporary you have to upgrade quickly in my opinion, to a twin bed or bunk beds.

I chose the circle crib, and I loved it! Not only is it unique, but the roundness of it made my feelings, that my son wasn't trapped by a box, but had more freedom. Also the raised or lowered bar, is needed. You child will get heavy, and when they are asleep as angels do, you will need to lower the bar sometimes to receive him at a better angle or position for you. This could depend on your height, I being only 5'3'' needed it. If you are taller you may not.
Good luck! May blessings to you on your new deli every from the heavens!

Answer 3

I am really happy with the crib I chose 4 years ago it was a five in one by Delta. I did have a lowering side and for little babies the mattress could be up high much easier for newborns it lowered down when she could stand up. then it turned into a toddler bed. It was the best 200 dollars I spent for her.

Answer 4

My son is 16 months old and still in his crib. It does have a drop side, which I find very convenient. The main problem (in my opinion) is trying to lay a sleeping baby down over the high rail. It's much easier with a lowered rail because you don't have to stretch as far and have lower risk of dropping the baby. (Not that falling onto the mattress would hurt him/her, but it would certainly wake him up.)

Answer 5

I don't think that the kind of crib you get really matters .
Just get that is easy to put together and that will last a long time .
the sliding side will make it a bit easier but not that much .After the first few time putting the baby in and out you will get the hang of it and you'll be fine . by the way congrats on your baby .

Answer 6

You will be better off getting a crib with sides that lower,As your baby grows and gains weight you will need the side lower for getting the baby in and out without hurting your back.

Answer 7

Well, as a mother of 5 I can tell you I LOVED the drop side. Far too hard to reach in to get baby as he/she grows older & the matess gets lowered.