Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs
top ranked cribs 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is sturdy and safe. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is built to last since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these could pose dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a sturdy crib, as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than some of the other cribs on this list, however it's stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs, but it could be a better option in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together, unlike some larger cribs. They're ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them properly but not too much because this could cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial that can be helpful for those who might not be familiar with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list with the necessary supplies, like washers and screws.
In addition to the design, size is a different aspect to consider. A crib must be large enough for your child but not so big that it can't fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using cribs that are older as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is made of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other choices on this list, however, some users found it more difficult to put together than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like design, cost, and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost every nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to assemble and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your baby in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress 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 looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for those separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have a minimalist design. 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 cots.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into an infant bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made from organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
A fantastic example of a green crib 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 is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction at a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing the crib. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure that it is in line with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Beware of cribs that are older because they may have outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it could have slats which are too wide or be missing some hardware. Additionally, old best rated cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too expensive for those who want a minimal look. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.