Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that is sturdy enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Also, look for a crib that doesn't have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these could pose a hazard to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with an infant rail and does not have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more costly than some of the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, but it might be preferable in the event that you plan to let your baby cots on sale use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cot beds cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them securely but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.
In addition to design, size is another consideration. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not so large that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be cautious about using cribs that are older, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is made from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options 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
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will free up space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and looks nice in almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it could occupy more square footage of your nursery than some of the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start 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 cribs on this list, which is great for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase them separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many are minimalist in design to minimize the environmental impact. They are simple to put together or convert, and some come with a dresser or a changing tray that is attached. This can save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size Cot Bed. Some cribs might have additional features like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure that it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats may be too wide or could be lacking hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimal look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.