Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide On Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that is solid enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your baby.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an infant rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more costly than other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for several years it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require a full day to put together. They're usually ready for use right from the box, and take only 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of tools, including screws and washers.
In addition to the design, size is a different consideration. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so big that it can't be accessed through a standard doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more robust than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a low position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress 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 easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to buy these separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have a minimalist design. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and a few include dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child changing into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand the rigors of daily usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which cots offers timeless design and top rated cots-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Also, make sure it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda bottle) 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 can pose the risk 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 Crib monitor, choose one that has a clear line of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs can also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a great price, but it may be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar style but less bells & whistles.