Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs (read on)
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend most of the time in it. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Look for a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close as this can pose a danger of death from suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these could pose dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy best crib newborn for babies because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail and doesn't have the same amount of slats like other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than the other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being super-easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels that is less than some other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time, it may be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cotbed cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They are usually ready to use right out of the package, and only take 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly built with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely, but don't over-tighten them, which can lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires an assembly, choose one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list with the necessary supplies, like washers and screws.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not too big that it will not fit through an opening of a standard size. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three mattress heights and is made of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is more robust than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, which is great for parents looking for an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also easy to assemble, cots and tots comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting 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 feature simple designs. They are usually easy to build and convert, and some come with dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated use and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and is eco-friendly.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for 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 who have reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with solid hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having 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 panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses a danger of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you want to use baby monitors, select one that is clear of sight, so it doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely anchored. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can pose choking and suffocation risks, and can be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Avoid using old cribs because they may have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib is in great condition, the slats could be too wide or could be lacking hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but could be too much for Baby Cot those who prefer a minimal design. 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.