How To Get More Value From Your Recommended Cribs

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You need a crib that is both safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.

1. Sturdy

The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is strong enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.

Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose an hazard for your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy Baby Crib (Suggested Reading) because it meets all of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs in this list.

Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is less than other cribs, but it could be a better option when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

A majority of modern Mini Cot Bed cribs do not need an entire day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use right out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves the cost of buying separate pieces.

Of course, you must ensure that the crib is properly constructed without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. You should also be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely but not excessively, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list of required tools, including washers and screws.

Size is also crucial. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it can't fit through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some users also noted that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib which can last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts well into the age of toddlerhood. This will save space and money, as well as make it easier to change 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 larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in every nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless look.

This crib is more robust than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's easy to assemble and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights that means you can start your baby in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they grow older.

This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib that can be a part of an elegant nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy these separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be an issue for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are typically easy to assemble and convert, and some include a changing tray or dresser attached, which can help save space in the nursery.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler Cot Bed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.

A great example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood, 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 of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the top priority when selecting the crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secured hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are either flush with the ends of the crib or extremely tall. Anything in between poses a danger of strangulation.

Additionally make sure that all toys are out of the crib because they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These can cause dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.

Also, avoid using older cribs as they may contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats which are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too much for people who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton cots 4 tots in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.