Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs
top rated cots 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is solid enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your little one.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest 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 your baby because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in all rooms. The only drawback is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs, however it's a good choice when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight out of the box and take only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a best baby cots. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not so big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want an elegant, modern crib. It is made from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to put together than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're seeking a crib that can last until the age of three and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs which transform into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and will look great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust, which means you can 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 is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit in a formal nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails 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 create a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are usually easy to build and convert, and a few include a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
A great crib example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped 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 strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are flush with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is the risk of strangulation.
Likewise make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely anchored. Don't place any blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats could be too wide or may be missing hardware. Old recommended cribs could also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 offer a similar design but without the bells and whistles.