Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You need a crib that is both safe and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.

One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's cheap cot bed.

1. Sturdy

It is crucial that the crib is strong because babies will spend a lot of the time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your child.

Find a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together as this could increase the danger of suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these features can be dangerous for your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in the majority of 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 like other cribs on this list.

Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels, which is fewer than some other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for several years it could be better suited to your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cotbed cribs do not require a full day to put together. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.

Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is securely built without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly but not too much because this could cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is believed to be more secure than metal.

Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list with the necessary supplies, like screws and washers.

Size is also crucial. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so big that it will not fit through an ordinary doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It has three mattress heights tots and cots is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other choices on this list, though, and some users noted that it was more difficult to put together than needed due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost, and how long the crib lasts. If you're seeking a crib that can last until the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will help save space and money, as well as make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.

While most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a longer rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. 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 a more seamless look.

The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for years. It's easy to set up and sturdy even for parents who aren't handy. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that means you can start your child in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.

The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, and is perfect for parents who want a crib that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which may be an issue for certain people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to minimize the environmental impact. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and a few come with dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made of non-toxic, organic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and also green.

Namesake is another option that offers a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality wood, 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 to create an even slope for infants with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the top priority when choosing the right crib. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are either in line with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is the danger of strangulation.

Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely anchored. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can pose choking and suffocation risks and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.

Also, do not use old cribs because they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide, or they might be lacking hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or unsafe bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it may be too much for those who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have a similar style but less bells and whistles.