A must-read for new parents, what factors should you consider when buying a baby crib?

Choosing the right baby crib is one of the most important decisions you make before your baby is born, after all, the baby crib is where they will live for the next approximately 2 years. With so many factors to consider, you may be wondering where to start. To help save time, we've put together a guide that takes an in-depth look at baby crib types, as well as crib basics, safety, and other factors that play a big role in making an informed choice.

Don't know where to start? Let's start with the basics. The following list of frequently asked questions will not only serve as a springboard for further research, but will also help new parents know their direction as they dive into more details.

A crib is a bed specially designed for infants and young children. Traditionally, it resembles a bed designed for older children and adults, with the addition of a slatted railing on all four sides - holding the baby in place.

On average, baby crib are used within the first 24 months of life. That being said, the stages at which a child transitions to a toddler bed or a twin bed vary greatly. One sure way to tell when your little one is ready to move on is when they're noticeably too big to fit in the crib and can climb out easily.

A crib is usually purchased while the mother is still pregnant. Some people may wait until the third trimester to find out the gender if they're interested in a certain design or color scheme. Parents are often encouraged to plan ahead to allow time for furniture to be delivered.