Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that's solid enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your baby.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, search for a crib that doesn't 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 they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that 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 reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and doesn't have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, but it might be preferable when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cot beds cribs do not need a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right from the box, and only take 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
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 aware of the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which could cause broken threads or wood cracks. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so big that it can't pass through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices on the market. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib will last. If you're seeking a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money and space and will make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a infant cot bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could take up more square feet of your nursery than some of the less expensive options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust, which means you can begin your baby in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they grow older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib that can fit in a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even come with a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can reduce space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size infant cot bed. They might also come with additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful finishes or components. 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 a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its 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 attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secure hardware. Also, ensure that it meets 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), no decorative cutout designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely connected. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs because they could contain outdated features that could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide or may be missing hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist style. 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.