20 Myths About Recommended Cribs: Busted

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you purchase a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail included.

1. Sturdy

A Baby beds spends most of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is strong enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your little one.

Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these features can be an hazard for your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks great in the majority of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with a toddler rail, and doesn't have the same amount of slats like other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than some of the other options on this list, but it's stylish and meets almost all our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time, it may be better suited to your requirements.

2. Easy to Assemble

Unlike some larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. They're ready to use out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves the cost of buying separate pieces.

You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to a Baby Cot Bed. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them securely but not excessively because this could cause the wood to break or strip threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.

If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.

Beyond design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not so big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. 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 looking for an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost and the length of time the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.

While most 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 wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless appearance.

This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests. It may use up more square footage of your nursery than the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that can stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who don't have the skills. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib to fit in a formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase those separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be an issue for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, cots and tots a lot of them are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are simple to put together or convert, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached. This can save space.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best crib eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and green.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and secured hardware. Also, ensure that it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda can), no decorative cutout designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.

Also make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These can cause dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Beware of cribs that are older as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide or could be lacking hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.