Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs

Top 5 recommended cribs (image source)

You want a crib that's both safe and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It includes four mattress heights and is constructed from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

A baby spends most of their time in the 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, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your baby.

Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Also, look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these could pose an hazard for your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy crib, as it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail and doesn't have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.

Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for a longer period of time it might be better suited to your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. They are usually ready to use right out of the box and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.

Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be sure to be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically 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 a solid wood crib as it is believed to be more secure than metal.

Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video that can be helpful for those who might not be familiar with furniture components. A good guide will include a list of required tools, including washers and screws.

Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not so big that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be wary of cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list though, and some users noted that it was more complicated to assemble than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and how long the crib will last. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib sets that will last until toddlerhood. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.

The majority of cribs that convert into full-size beds are a last resort, you simply remove the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle cheap cot bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless appearance.

The crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It may use up more space in your nursery than some of the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and sturdy even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that means you can begin your child in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they get older.

This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are seeking a crib that will be a part of the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy the rails separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs create a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are designed to minimize the environmental impact. They are usually easy to assemble and change, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.

Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and is free of toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has timeless design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The best crib newborn also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the top priority when selecting a crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are either aligned with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is the possibility of strangulation.

Additionally, keep all toys out of the crib because they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely attached. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These items can cause the risk of suffocation or choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.

Also, do not use old cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats could be too wide or could be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have a similar style but less bells and Best Cot Bed whistles.