Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs (click the up coming article)
When you buy a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights 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 the crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's solid enough. Look for cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these features can be a hazard to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies as it meets most of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in all rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's a bit more costly than the other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels that is less than some other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for several years it might be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They're ready to use right out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely, but not too much as this can cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers include videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of supplies, like screws and washers.
Besides design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not so large that it will not fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib which will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
This crib is a little more substantial than other cribs in our tests. 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 up to the test of time. It's easy to set up and durable, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which allows you to start your child in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they get older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents who want a crib that will look stylish in a grand nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy these separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are simple to put together or convert, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached. This can save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child, converting to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
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 and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib with modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction at a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure 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 can) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you want to use baby cots on sale monitors, select one with a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and are securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib sets is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are not wide or may be missing hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it may be too much for people who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.