Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is built to last because a baby cots on sale will spend most of the time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Choose solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together as this could increase the danger of death from suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides because these can be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, select cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be caught on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels, which is less than other cribs, however it might be preferable if you're planning cots to tots have your child use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They are ready to use right out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is securely assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which could lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that needs assembly, search for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child but not too big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be cautious about using cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great crib option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than some of the other choices on this list, though, and some users found it more difficult to put together than needed due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed cots to tots car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost, and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts until toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a longer rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.
The crib is more substantial than others in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery than some of the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to assemble and sturdy even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights, which allows you to start your child in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib that can fit in an elegant nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to shop for these separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature simple designs. They are simple to put together, convert and some even include a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can reduce space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made from non-toxic, organic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
An excellent example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has timeless design and top rated cots-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing a crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are aligned with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything that is in between poses a possibility of strangulation.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you want to use baby monitors, select one that is clear of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely connected. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats that are too wide or lack hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.