Baby crib with bars: safety and comfort for peaceful nights
Crib with bars comparison: safety & comfort guaranteed
The crib with bars is the reference choice to ensure your baby's safety and comfort. With an adjustable base, healthy materials and suitable designs, this crib offers an evolving, safe and soothing sleeping space. This guide supports you in your choice by highlighting essential criteria: safety standards, design, mattress, adaptability and alternatives.
Choosing a crib with bars: the fundamentals
The crib with bars is favored for its reliability. Compliant with European standards (NF EN 716), it prevents falls thanks to its bars spaced 4.5 to 6.5 cm apart. The adjustable base makes parents' daily life easier and adapts to the child's age.
What type of crib with bars to choose?
Model | Sleeping dimensions | Strengths | Ideal for | Built-in storage | Style |
Mooréa (twins) | 2× (40×80 → 70×140) | Twin sleeping, space-saving, very complete | Families with twins | ✅ Changing table + drawers | Sleek Scandinavian |
70×140 cm | Simple convertible bed, clean design, excellent value | Only child, parents seeking simplicity | ❌ | Contemporary neutral | |
70×140 cm | Retro style, convertible with removable rails | Vintage design lovers | ❌ | Vintage | |
40×80 → 70×140 cm | Integrated changing table, 3 convertible stages | First baby, small bedroom | ✅ Combined changing table | Modern/wood mix | |
70×140 cm | Retro look, refined design, comfort | Parents attached to vintage decor style | ✅ | Colorful Vintage | |
70×140 cm → 90x190 cm | Natural and soft look, trendy light wood | Soothing atmosphere, natural decor bedroom | ✅ (combined) | Bohemian / natural | |
70×140 cm | Premium materials, sleek style, durable | Demanding parents (quality + aesthetics) | ❌ | Premium Scandinavian |
Why the crib with bars remains the ideal solution?
A safe and well-designed space
From birth, this crib prevents risks of entrapment or falls. Its firm, perfectly fitted mattress prevents suffocation risks. The NF EN 716 standard guarantees a sturdy and secure structure.
Visibility and ease of use
Vertical bars allow you to keep an eye on baby while ensuring good ventilation. The adjustable base (2 or 3 levels) simplifies daily care and follows the child's growth.
A long-term investment
Some models convert into junior beds or even children's beds, extending their use until 6-7 years. A durable, practical and economical choice.
Baby crib with or without bars: what to choose?
The choice between a baby crib with or without bars depends on safety and independence needs. The crib with bars, ideal for infants, prevents falls and allows easy monitoring. It is regulated and provides a safe frame from birth.
On the other hand, cribs without bars, such as Montessori-style floor beds, are better suited for more independent children, generally after 12 months. They promote freedom of movement but require a perfectly secured bedroom. For the first months, a crib with bars remains the best option.
What to check before buying a crib with bars
Standards and materials
Make sure the crib meets NF EN 716 standards. Choose sturdy materials such as solid wood (beech, pine) for legs and bars or engineered wood panels, with non-toxic water-based paints.
Spacing and height
The bars must be spaced 4.5 to 6.5 cm apart. The rail must be at least 60 cm high (from the mattress in its lowest position) to prevent falls.
The mattress: not to be overlooked
The baby mattress must be firm, breathable, 10 to 12 cm thick, and perfectly fitted to the crib. Oeko-Tex certifications and washable covers are a plus for health and hygiene.
Safety summary for crib with bars
- Crib certified NF EN 716
- Bar spacing between 4.5 and 6.5 cm
- Solvent-free paints
- Firm and fitted mattress
- No sharp corners
Crib with bars, floor bed, co-sleeper: what to choose?
Crib with bars: optimal safety
Recommended for the first months, it prevents falls and provides a reassuring frame. Can be used until 3-4 years with a convertible model.
Floor bed: independence
Inspired by the Montessori method, the floor bed promotes independence but requires a perfectly secured bedroom.
Co-sleeper: proximity
Ideal for the first 6 months, it makes nights easier but remains a temporary solution.
Comparison table of different types of baby cribs
Criterion | Crib with bars | Floor bed | Co-sleeper |
Anti-fall safety | ✅ high | ❌ low | ✅ high |
Child's independence | ❌ low | ✅ very good | ❌ none |
Duration of use | ✅ long | ✅ long | ❌ very short |
Parents' peace of mind | ✅ optimal | ⚠ average | ✅ good |
Footprint | ✅ standard | ⚠ variable | ✅ low |
A crib that grows with your baby
Adjustable base:
adaptability
High position for newborns, intermediate as soon as baby sits up, low as soon as they stand. This system extends the crib's use safely.
Dimensions:
60x120 or 70x140 cm?
The 60x120 cm is suitable until 2-3 years. The 70x140 cm, being larger, can be used until 6-7 years if it's convertible.
When to switch to a junior bed?
Around 18 months - 3 years, if the child climbs, gets stuck, or asks for a “big kid bed”. Convertible models make this transition easier.
Practical tips for installing the crib with bars
Secure assembly
Follow the instructions carefully. Check screws and bar spacing. Avoid old cribs that don't meet current standards.
Minimalist bedding: more safety
No pillows, duvets, stuffed animals or crib bumpers. Opt for a sleep sack and fitted sheet.
The crib with bars: safety, style and durability combined
Reliable and eco-friendly materials
PEFC-certified solid wood or engineered wood panels, water-based paints, healthy finishes. Scandinavian design remains trendy: clean lines, light colors.
Integration into the bedroom
The bed is the centerpiece. Choose a model that suits your decor: light wood for a soft atmosphere, bright colors to energize the space.
Painting a wall behind the bed also helps structure the sleeping area.
Frequently asked questions about cribs with bars
From birth until 3-4 years depending on the model's convertibility.
Between 4.5 and 6.5 cm to avoid any risk.
The crib with bars with adjustable base, firm mattress and suitable dimensions.
Around 18 months - 3 years, when the child climbs or desires more independence.
No, if they meet standards and are properly assembled.
Longer usage duration, convertible and economical.
Respect standards, adjust mattress height, leave nothing in the crib.
Around 6 months (sitting position), then around 10 months (standing).
By choosing a compliant crib with bars, you guarantee your baby peaceful nights in a safe and aesthetic cocoon.
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