Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be harmful to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with a toddler rail, and it doesn't have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, however it's stylish and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs. However, 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
Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cot beds cribs don't require a full day to put together. They are ready to use straight out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is securely assembled without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to be aware of the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Find solid wood cribs as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
In addition to design, size is an additional factor to consider. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so large that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. Also, 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 choice for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than the other options on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more complicated to assemble than needed because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. If you're seeking a crib that will last into the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take off the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and will look great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square feet of your nursery than some of the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who don't have the skills. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights which means you can start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise it as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, and is perfect for parents who want an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to shop for these separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue for certain 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 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 from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are designed to minimize the impact on the environment. They are generally easy to assemble and cot bed convert, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand the rigors of daily use and clean. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also have a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction at 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 attached to the side to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib sets safety should be your top priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure that it is in line 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 bottle) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is a strangulation risk.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one that has a clear line of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could have outdated construction features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.