Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide On Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs (web page)
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is sturdy enough. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid 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 to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these features can be an hazard for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your best baby cots's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get caught on clothing or toys. It also looks great in all rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It also only has three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs. However, it's a good choice when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use right out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is securely assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, look for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who may not be familiar with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
In addition to design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be large enough for your child but not too big that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs older than a year, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is made of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and how long the crib will last. If you're seeking a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will save space and money, as well as make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a larger 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 can be incorporated into almost every nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
This crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it could take up more square footage of your nursery than the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. It's simple to put together and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which means you can start your baby in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit in a formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase these separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature simple designs. They are typically easy to build and change, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best crib newborn eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and also green.
Namesake is another option, with an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Be sure that the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are in line with the end panels of the crib or extremely tall. Anything in between poses a danger of strangulation.
Also ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your baby and securely connected. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other Baby Cot Bed cribs with positioners. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that could cause injury. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide or might be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar style but less bells & whistles.