Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide In Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend a lot of the time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, search for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these could pose an hazard for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it will save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a sturdy crib, as it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail and doesn't have the same amount of slats like other cribs on this list.
Another crib that 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 also only has three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs. However, it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs don't require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. You should also be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers include videos that provide instruction that can be helpful for those who may not be accustomed to 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 large enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list however, and some customers found it more difficult to put together than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost, and how long the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib that lasts well into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
The crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it could occupy more space in your nursery than the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust that means you can start your baby in a low, comfortable position that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, tots and cots is perfect for parents who want a crib that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for the rails 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 create the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most are minimalist in design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are usually simple to put together and convert, and some come with dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into an infant Cot Bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs may have extra features, such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that has modern, sleek design and is easy cots to tots clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. 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 suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, make sure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.
Also ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely connected. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These items can pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs can also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimal style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar look but without the bells and whistles.