Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide On Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is both safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi best crib for newborn. It includes four mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend the majority of their 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 the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Also, look for a crib that doesn't have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these could pose dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have an infant rail and doesn't have as many slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Another recommended cribs crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than the other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs. However, it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them securely but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Find a solid wood crib as it is considered to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not so big that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the market. Some users also noted that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if would like a crib that will last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will save space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
Most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply take off the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs we've tested tests. It might 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 don't have the skills. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your baby in a low position, which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is ideal for parents who want an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have a minimalist design. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even have an adjustable dresser or changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand the rigors of daily usage and cleaning. The best cots eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for best Infant Cribs low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an eco-friendly crib with modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, make sure 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 bottle) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs as they may contain outdated features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats which are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it may be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. 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 look but less bells & whistles.