Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide On Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is both safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it's important to choose a crib that is strong enough. 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 components or rough areas which could hurt your child.
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 doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these can pose an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your cheap baby cots’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, opt for a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies as it meets most of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get caught on clothing or toys. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it fulfills all our criteria and is simple to put together. It has just three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, however it's a good choice when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They're ready to use straight out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a baby. Also, pay attention to the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them properly, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Find a solid wood crib as it is considered to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos that provide instruction that can be helpful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture parts. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child but not so large that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs that are older as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than other options on this list though, and some users have complained that it was more complicated to assemble than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs don't come with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your baby in a seated position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit into a formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase those separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space Best cot for newborn your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are easy to set up and convert, and some come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can help save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child changing into an infant cot bed bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made of organic and non-toxic materials. They also come with a low-VOC finish.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction at an affordable 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 has an optional reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when selecting a crib. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secure hardware. Also, ensure it is in line with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda container), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything between is a strangulation risk.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your baby and securely attached. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injury. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats which are too wide or lack hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.