Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.

1. Sturdy

It's important that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend a lot of the time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces that could harm your child.

Choose solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together as this could increase the risk of being suffocated. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous to your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your Baby beds's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great crib option for a solid crib as it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an infant rail and doesn't have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.

Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs. However, it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

A majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They are ready to use straight out of the box, taking around 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.

Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them properly but not excessively because this could cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is believed to be more secure than metal.

If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who may not be familiar with furniture parts. A good guide will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.

Besides design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so large that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs that are older as they may not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options that are on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.

3. Convertible

In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib will last. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.

While most best rated cribs which transform into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be transformed into cot bed sales frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and is a great addition to any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.

This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for years. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights, which means you can begin your baby in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.

This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit into a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are typically easy to assemble and change, and some come with dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child changing into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.

A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great option for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and green.

Namesake is another option, with an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of 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 slope for babies who have reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Also, make sure it is in line with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda can) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.

Additionally make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can cause suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats might be too wide, or they might be missing hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it might be too much for people who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.