11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually OK To Use With Your Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and durable. Look for solid construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend the majority of the time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your little one.
Choose a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close as they could pose a risk of being suffocated. Also, search for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these features can be an hazard for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or Great Crib as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is less than other cribs, however it might be preferable 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
Many modern mini cotbed cribs do not need an entire day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch the baby. Be sure to be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them properly but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, search for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial which can be useful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture components. A good manual should include a list of supplies, like screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so big that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs might not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will save you money and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
most recommended cribs cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider 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 will look great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a cohesive look.
The crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests, and it could occupy more square feet of your nursery than the smaller 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 has three different mattress heights you can adjust which means you can begin your baby in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, and is ideal for parents looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are easy to assemble and convert, and some come with a dresser or a changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and is free of harmful 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 of the crib are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib sets, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Also, make sure it complies with the 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 can) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of reach of your child and securely anchored. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items can pose suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your infant cot bed or dragged down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide or could be missing hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous bolts or 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 simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.