Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide On Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing under 2.cots 4 tots inches wide.
One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it is important to choose a crib that's strong enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can save space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other options on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being extremely easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress heights, which is less than other cribs, however it might be preferable when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cotbed cribs do not require an entire day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use right out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. You should also be aware of the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Choose a solid wood crib as it is believed to be more secure than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list with the necessary tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not too big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is made of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs don't come with many "features." However it 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 would like a crib that will last well into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and looks nice in almost every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could occupy more square feet of your nursery than the less expensive options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights, which allows you to start your baby in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib that can be a part of an elegant nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for these separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. 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 constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature simple designs. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and a few come with a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a daybed, toddler Cot Bed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best cot beds eco-friendly cribs are made of organic and non-toxic materials. They also come with a low-VOC finish.
A great example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and has no harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats, made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure 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 end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.
Also, keep all toys away from the crib since they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely anchored. Do not place blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats might be too wide or could be lacking hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it might be too expensive for those who want a simple design. 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 without the bells and whistles.