Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend most of the time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Choose solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close together, as this could increase the risk of death from suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and 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.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and sturdy crib, as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or Cot Bed clothing. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with an infant rail and does not have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's a bit more expensive than the other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and meets almost all our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, but it could be a better option when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to put together. They are ready to use out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. 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.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is securely constructed without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely, but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Choose a solid wood crib since it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of needed supplies, like washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's simple to put together and sturdy even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust that allows you to start your child in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit in the formal nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best cots of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child, while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have an elegant design. They are typically easy to assemble and change, and some include a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The Best cot for newborn eco-friendly cribs are made from non-toxic, organic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and is environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. 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 suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing the crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda bottle) tots and cots no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses an opportunity for strangulation.
Also make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they can be choking or suffocation hazards. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely connected. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide, or they may be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it could be too expensive for those who want a simple design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.