Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide In Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It includes four mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is built to last because a Baby Cot will spend most of the time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.
Look for a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together, as this could increase the risk of being suffocated. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides because these can be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a a small footprint to minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib sets because it meets all of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks great in most rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it's stylish and meets almost all our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress that is less than other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for a long time, it may be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them securely but not too much because this could cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is thought to be safer than metal.
Find recommended cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.
Beyond the design, size is a different consideration. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your baby, but not so large that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress heights and is made of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than some of the other options on this list however, some users noted that it was more complicated to assemble than needed due to the mislabeled components and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib that lasts long into the age of toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. It's simple to put together and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which means you can start your child in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
This 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 fit into the formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your baby while promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many are minimalist in design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are usually simple to put together and convert, and some come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child changing into a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
A great example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib with an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure it is in line with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda container) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Also, keep all toys out of the crib as they can be choking or suffocation hazards. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely attached. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and can be kicked off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that could cause injury. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide, or they might be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it might be too expensive for those who want a minimal look. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar style but without the bells and whistles.