ubabub cribBaby gear is always evolving, ever improving. What was THE thing you needed last pregnancy has likely been revised and revamped or rendered unnecessary.

But for the most part, all babies need a crib. And while cribs come in a variety of wood types, colors, and price ranges, most have remained largely the same over the years -- your basic rectangular shape with slats.

But a new generation of cribs is popping up and giving parents more choices than ever.

Here are a few favorites:

Check out these uber-cool cribs by Australian company ubabub. Eco-friendly, safe, and modern, the hippest of babies could slumber well in one of these. This one (pictured above), called the "pod," can even convert to a toddler bed when your baby is ready for that.

The only downside, they're pricey (about $1,900) and only available in Australia currently. They are planning to expand into other countries though.

oval crib

If you like softer angles, this oval crib from Land of Nod offers a nice non-traditional option. It also converts to a toddler bed and is currently on sale for $679.

round crib

If modern isn't your thing, you may like this super-fancy round carousel rocking horse crib. For some reason, I wouldn't be surprised if Teresa Giudice's children slept in something like this. It's currently on sale for $1,999.99.

Would you buy any of these cribs or do you prefer more traditional ones?


Images (from top to bottom) via: ubabub, land of nod, uniquebabysboutique