Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs - home-page -
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.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, Cots 4 tots so it is important to find one that is solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with smaller footprints to minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs in 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, but it's stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It has only three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time it might be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right from the box, and require only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Also, be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them up securely but not excessively because this could cause the wood to break or strip threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who might not be used to working with furniture components. A good manual should include a list with the necessary supplies, like washers and screws.
Beyond the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib should be big enough for your child but not so large that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list however, some users have complained that it was more difficult to put together than necessary due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like aesthetics, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
Although most cribs that convert into full-size small cot beds are considered an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could take up more square feet of your nursery than some of the smaller options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. It's easy to assemble and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights which means you can begin your child in a low spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are seeking a crib that will be a part of an elegant nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase 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 can be a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to assemble and change, and some have dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child changing into a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Whatever their ability to convert they must be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also are low-VOC in their finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and also green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable cots price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Also, ensure it is in line with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda container) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between is the risk of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely attached. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that could cause injury. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats which are too wide or may be missing hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it might be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 offer a similar design but with fewer bells and whistles.