Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 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 bed.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is built to last because a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Find cribs that comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.
Choose solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together as this can pose a risk of being suffocated. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints cots to tots minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing, and it looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to assemble. It also has only 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 baby use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They are ready to use right out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is properly constructed with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Choose a solid wood crib as it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.
Besides design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices that are on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're looking for a crib that will last into the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply take off the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, which is perfect for parents who want an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and some have a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best crib for newborn eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, with a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are either aligned with the ends of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses a possibility of strangulation.
Also, keep all toys out of the crib as they can be choking or risk of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, make sure any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and are securely attached. Do not place blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can pose choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed or kicked by your child.
Avoid using old cribs, as they could have outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats could be too wide, or they may be lacking hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it may be too much for people who want a minimal look. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport a similar style but less bells and whistles.