Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is strong because babies will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.
Choose a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close as this could increase the danger of being suffocated. Also, search for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to minimize space and cheap cot beds dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets all of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and doesn't have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together, unlike some larger cribs. They're ready to use straight out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly but not too much, as this can cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that needs assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of needed tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three different mattress heights and is made of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list, however, and some customers noted that it was more difficult to put together than necessary due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like design, cost, and how long the crib will last. If you're seeking a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a full-size cheap cot bed or daybed. This will save space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size best cot bed seem like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.
This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests. It may use up more space in your nursery than some of the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which allows you to start your baby in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents looking for a crib to fit into an elegant nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy those separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your baby while promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are typically simple to put together and change, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child, converting to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made of organic and non-toxic materials. They also are low-VOC in their finish.
A great example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great option for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, with a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be attached 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 selecting a crib. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are either flush with the ends of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is a danger of strangulation.
Likewise ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use a Baby Crib monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely anchored. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These can cause suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs since they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide or may be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it might be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport a similar style but less bells and whistles.