Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs [recent Bridgerecruiter blog post]
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that's strong enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, as these features may be harmful to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be caught on toys or clothing, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being super-easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for several years it might be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together, unlike some larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. You should also be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list with the necessary items, such as washers and screws.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so large that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. 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 those who want a modern, sleek crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost and the length of time the crib sets will last. If you're looking for a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will help save space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a longer rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle best cot beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for years. It's easy to assemble and durable, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with 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 raise 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 be a part of the formal nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the Best cot for newborn of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. They are typically easy to build and convert, and a few have dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child, converting to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features, such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, with an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be attached to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing a crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with 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 flush with the end panels of the crib or extremely tall. Anything in between poses a risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib sets, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor that is in 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 connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items can cause the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs because they could contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in great condition, the slats may be too wide or could be missing hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it could be too much for those who prefer a minimal look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar look but without the bells and whistles.