Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top ranked cribs picks. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is sturdy enough. Find cribs that comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your baby.
Choose solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together, as this can pose a danger of being suffocated. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib with a minimal footprint, cribs since it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it fulfills the majority 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 great in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with a toddler rail and does not have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Another recommended cribs crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It has just three mattress height levels which is lower than other cribs, but it might be preferable if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cot beds cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. They're ready to use straight out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them up securely, but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Look for a solid wood crib as it is believed to be more secure than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video which can be useful for those who might not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
In addition to the design, size is a different consideration. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not so large that it will not fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is made from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to the elements than the other choices on this list, however, some users noted that it was more difficult to put together than necessary due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.
This crib is more robust than other cribs we've tested tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to assemble and sturdy even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust, which means you can begin your baby off in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib that can be a part of a formal nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most are minimalist in design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are usually easy to assemble and convert, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and Good Cribs meets all safety requirements. It is a great option for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and green.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when selecting a crib. Make sure the crib is built well and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure that it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses a strangulation risk.
Likewise make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets, or positioning devices in the crib. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older as they could be equipped with outdated features that could cause injury. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats may be too wide, or they could be lacking hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimal style. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.