Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs (link)
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it is important to find one that is sturdy enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Also, search for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these features can be a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a sturdy crib, as it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have an infant rail and does not have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our criteria, including being extremely easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress height levels, which is less than other cribs, but it could be a better option when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cot beds cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. Most are ready to use straight out of the box and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can cause broken threads or wood cracks. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list with the necessary tools, including washers and screws.
Besides design, size is an additional consideration. A crib must be big enough for your baby but not so large that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than the other choices on this list, though, and some users have complained that it was more difficult to set up than necessary due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price, and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a wider rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle best cot beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery than the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand the test of time. It's simple to put together and sturdy even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your Baby Cot in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents looking for a crib that will look stylish in a grand nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which may be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your child, while also encouraging 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 are typically made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to minimize the environmental impact. They are easy to set up, convert and some even include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached. This can save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. Some cribs may have extra features, such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand repeated use and clean. The most recommended cribs eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
A great example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure that it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between is a strangulation risk.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they can pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and may be pushed or kicked by your child.
Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats could be too wide, or they might be lacking hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features for a reasonable price, but it may be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport a similar style but less bells and best Crib whistles.