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 sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong because babies will spend the majority of the time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.
Find solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together as this could increase the risk of suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact 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 beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail and does not have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels that is less than some other cribs. If you intend cots to tots use the crib for a longer period of time, it may be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. They are ready to use straight out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Also, be aware of the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which could result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires an assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos that provide instruction that can be helpful for those who might not be familiar with furniture components. 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 big that it can't be accessed through the standard doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, however, and some customers found it more complicated to assemble than needed because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are considered an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It is 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 larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could occupy more square footage of your nursery than the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to assemble and sturdy, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, and is perfect for parents looking for an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also easy to put together, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase 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 can be an ideal solution for everyone. They offer a safe tots and cots secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have a minimalist 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 cots.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child, converting to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is environmentally friendly.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be your top rated cots priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and well-fitting fittings. 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), no decorative cutout designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Also ensure that all toys are kept 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 that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs since they could contain outdated features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they could be lacking hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too expensive for those who want a minimal look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.