7 Simple Strategies To Completely Rocking Your Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is strong because babies will spend most of their time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, select cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with a toddler rail, and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is simple to put together. It also has only three mattress heights, which is less 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
Many modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're ready to use right out of the box, taking around 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them properly but not excessively as this can cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of supplies, like washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is an additional consideration. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is made of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than other options on this list, though, and some users found it more difficult to put together than they needed to due to the mislabeled components and cheap Cot bed unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will save you money and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are a last resort they can be removed from the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for an even more seamless look.
The crib is much more sturdy than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. It's simple to put together and durable, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights that allows you to start your baby off in a low, comfortable position that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit into the formal nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe sleep environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with 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 an elegant design. They are simple to put together, convert and some even include an adjustable dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can help save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and Baby cot bed durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best cot newborn eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
A great example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that offers an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, with a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the right crib sets. Make sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, make sure it complies with the 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 headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between is the risk of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and are securely anchored. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items can pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide, or they might be lacking hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it could be too expensive for those who want a minimal look. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.