Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction 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 from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to find one that is solid 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 emphasize structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it will make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with a toddler rail and doesn't have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It only has three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely but not excessively because this could cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list with the necessary supplies, like washers and screws.
In addition to design, size is an additional consideration. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not so big that it can't be accessed through the standard doorway. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options that are on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs don't come with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will save you money and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most recommended cribs cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more square footage of your nursery than the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that can stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights which allows you to start your child in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit into a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for those separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which might be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best crib of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can reduce space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or best Cots (elearnportal.science) full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be sturdy and durable to withstand the rigors of daily use and cleaning. The best cots uk eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great option for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib with modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an 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 sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard and corner posts that are in line with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is a possibility of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely attached. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed or kicked by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib appears in good condition, the slats might be too wide or it may be lacking hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar style but less bells & whistles.