Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide In Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs (More Bonuses)
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is built to last because a baby will spend a lot of the time in it. 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, you should avoid best rated cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your child.
Choose a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close as this could increase the risk of being suffocated. Also, search for a crib that doesn't have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these features can be a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail and doesn't have the same amount of slats like other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, however it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for several years it might be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to assemble. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and only take 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares the cost of buying separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to a baby. Also, pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely but not too much as this can cause the wood to break or strip threads. Find a solid wood crib as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, search for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of supplies, like washers and screws.
Beyond the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib must be big enough for your baby but not so big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. 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 who want an elegant, modern crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-sized cheap cot bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are considered an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it by an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a cohesive look.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for years. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are simple to put together, convert and some even come with a dresser or changing tray attached. This can reduce space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. They might also come with additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The Best cot for newborn eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also come with a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions 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.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting the crib. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure it complies 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 container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib because they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, choose one that is clear of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely anchored. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or positioners in the crib. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed or kicked by your child.
Avoid using old cribs as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats could be too wide or it could be lacking hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose and dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it could be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.