Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs (click here for info)
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your baby.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib as it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have 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 more expensive than other options on this list, but it's stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs. However, it could be a better option when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs many modern mini cotbed cribs don't require a full day to put together. They are usually ready to use right from the box, and only take 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could result in cracked wood or recommended Cribs stripped threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who may not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide will also include a list of necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is another consideration. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not so big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than the other choices on this list, however, and some customers noted that it was more complicated to assemble than necessary because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs don't come with many "features." However it 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. If you're looking for a crib that can last until the age of three and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle cheap cot beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
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's going to last for a long time. It's simple to put together and sturdy even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which means you can begin your child in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, and is ideal for parents who want a crib that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for these separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have an elegant design. They are easy to set up or convert, and some include a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features, such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and Mini cotbed frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and is green.
Namesake is another option, with an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have 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 selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Also, make sure it meets the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, Top Rated cots as they can pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of the reach of your child and are securely connected. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can cause 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 since they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide or may be missing hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimal style. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.