Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is built to last since a baby will spend the majority of the time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your little one.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, as these features may be dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it can save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies as it meets most of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and does not have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than some of the other cribs on this list, however it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs. However, it's a good choice when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use right out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is securely built with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which could result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Choose solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers include a video tutorial that can be helpful for those who might not be used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the required tools, including screws and washers.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so large that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is made from durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and looks great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless look.
This crib is a little larger than the other cribs beds in our tests. It may use up more square footage of your nursery than the other cribs however, it's a stunning piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and Cot beds comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create a win-win scenario, providing a safe sleep environment for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to build and change, and some include dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to an infant best cot bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated use and clean. The most eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Verify that it complies 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 aligned with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between poses a danger of strangulation.
Also make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, choose one that has a clear line of sight, so it doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke and could be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs because they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats which are too wide or may be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 offer a similar design but without the bells and whistles.