Top Baby Cribs Under $200

Are you getting ready to add a new member to your family? I, like many others, will be having a baby in just a few months. That means its time to go baby shopping! What a better place to start than the thing that will be most important and most used over the first few years of your child's life, the crib. In this article, we will explore some safe cribs at a good value of $200 or less. I will start with local stores (Wal-Mart and Target) via their websites, and then move on to a couple of web exclusive sites (www.babycenter.com and www.babyuniverse.com.)

While exploring the wonderful world of baby cribs at Wal-Mart through www.walmart.com, I found a few good cribs that fit into the under $200 category that were not online exclusives. One of these was Simplicity for Children's Winnie the Pooh 4-in-one Convertible Crib. I didn't recognize the brand name so I did a little research on their webpage (www.simplicityforchildren.com) and found out that they do many different things to ensure safety. All
of their products are JPMA Certified, which means they adhere to standards set out by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Their products are not only tested by their company but also by independent testing companies.

This specific crib is available for $149.44. Some of its features include a one hand release single drop side, 4 mattress positions, and an electronic remote controlled mobile for your baby's viewing pleasure. This model also features a 5 year limited warranty and the tools for assembly are included. Since this model is convertible, it can be changed into a toddler bed (safety rails are included), a daybed, and one crib rail can become a headboard for a full size bed (frame, mattress, and box spring not included.) A slightly better model that is still within the price range is also made by Simplicity. It is the Crib Changer Combo for only $179.67. The crib is designed with a 3-drawer, 3 shelf changing table attached to it. You won't have to go very far for those late night or early morning diaper changes anymore with this model. This crib is also convertible with the exact same features as the previous one.

Target's website, www.target.com, also had a few options that were not online exclusives. You will want to visit or call your local store to see what actual products they have in stock and to double check the prices as they may differ from the website. The best price I found was $199.99, just barely making it eligible for this product guide. This is for standard cribs; there were some mini cribs and convertible cribs at a lower price. One of the more impressive cribs was the Rochester Crib with Drawer. It features an exclusive one hand lift and drop hardware system, 3 mattress positions, and it meets or exceeds all U.S. and Canadian safety standards. The storage drawer is a great asset to keep toys or other baby items nearby. The Childcraft Prairie Crib was another great buy at the same price of $199.99. Its features include JPMA Certification, 4 mattress positions, conversion to a daybed, and floor casters for easy moving.

For those of you who don't mind making purchases online, here are two sites that are great for all things baby. One of my favorite sites is www.babycenter.com. It not only has many products available, but there is also a wide variety of information on this site for expectant parents. Some of the cribs that I found to be safe and affordable were the L.A. Baby Mini Crib at $139.95 (features include weight of only 55 lbs., metal design, 3 mattress positions, and an included foam mattress pad,) and the DaVinci Emily Mini Crib at $199.95 (features include weight of only 50 lbs., pine design, 4 mattress positions, and non-moving side rails.)

Another great site for baby gear is www.babyuniverse.com. I found the Angel Line Saf-Crib to be a good product for only $119.99. Its main feature is the fixed adjustable side rails. This means no accidental rail drops from the baby, however, it does make it more difficult to put the baby in and take him out of the crib. The DaVinci Alpha Crib may be a better deal on sale now at $199.99. This crib meets and exceeds all U.S. safety standards and features a single-drop side with a foot release and 4 mattress positions.

This article has touched on a few great deals on baby cribs. Remember, this is the most important investment you will make for your child in their first few years of life. Be sure you are informed and good luck hunting!