There are few purchases that are more fun than picking out your little one’s crib. Will you go for a traditional-looking crib or something more modern? Do you want a crib that can later transform into a toddler bed? Whatever you decide to get, obviously the first concern is safety. Look for a crib that is safety certified by the Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association. When buying a mattress, get a firm mattress which will support baby’s back and steer clear of a soft, quilted mattress which could pose a suffocation risk. Some other things to consider when you buy a crib are ease of assembly, getting one that is the right height for you so you’re not straining your back getting baby in and out of the crib, and of course, cost. If you are having your first baby and his is going to be in the crib from the time he is a newborn until he is a toddler, you might want to make more of an investment than you would if this is your second child and you expect her to be in a co-sleeper for as long as possible. Our crib, play yard, and bassinet buying guides can help you find the perfect place for your baby to lay her head.