Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress height settings and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Recommended Cribs pinewood. It also comes with an best infant cribs rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is strong because a baby will spend most of the time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts, or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and doesn't have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's a bit more expensive than other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs. However, it's a good choice if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cot beds cribs do not require a full day to put together. They are usually ready to use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Also, pay attention to the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying 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 might not be used to working with furniture components. A good guide will also include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough for your child but not too big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. 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 fantastic option for those looking for a sleek, modern best crib newborn. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other choices on this list, Cot Beds though, and some users noted that it was more complicated to assemble than necessary due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with 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 will last. If you're looking for a crib that will last through the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
Most cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It may use up more square feet of your nursery than the less expensive options, but it's a beautiful 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 handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your baby in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two on this list, which is perfect for parents looking for a crib that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase the rails separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create a win-win scenario, providing a safe sleep environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are usually easy to assemble and convert, and a few have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child and convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated use and clean. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib with modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also features 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
Safety should be the top priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built 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 ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are in line with the end panels of the crib, or very tall. Anything that is in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one that has a clear line of sight, so it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely connected. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can lead to the risk of suffocation or choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimal look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar style but less bells & whistles.