Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get caught on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It only has three levels of mattress which is less than some other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for a long time, it may be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, cribs many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to put together. Most are ready to use straight out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which could cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
Besides design, size is an additional factor to consider. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so large that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs because older cribs might not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than the other options on this list though, and some users noted that it was more difficult to set up than they needed to due to the mislabeled components and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib to last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most 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 longer rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
This crib is a little more substantial than other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more space in your nursery than some of the smaller options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights that means you can start your child in a low spot that's easy cot for sale caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib that can be a part of an elegant nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for those separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are typically easy to assemble and change, and some include a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. They may also have additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality wood, 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 a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing a crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are either in line with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between poses the danger of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that is clear of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely attached. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These can pose choking and suffocation risks and could be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it may have slats that are not wide or may be missing hardware. Old best rated cribs can also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it may be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as 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 whistles.