Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs (try this)
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it's important to choose a crib that is strong enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets all of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and doesn't have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib sets is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to put together. It has only three mattress levels, which is fewer than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for several years it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to assemble. Most are ready to use right from the box, and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is properly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely, but don't over-tighten them, which can result in broken threads or wood cracks. Find a solid wood crib as it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of items, such as washers and screws.
Besides design, size is an additional aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not too big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be cautious about using cribs that are older as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It has three different mattress heights and is made of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed hardware than other options on this list, however, some users found it more difficult to set up than they needed to due to 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 such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which will last through the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are a last resort they can be removed from the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs we've tested tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights which means you can begin your child in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib that can fit into the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature simple designs. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even include a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can reduce space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also eco-friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top rated cots-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secured hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are either aligned with the end panels of the crib, or very tall. Anything that is in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely attached. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can lead to the risk of suffocation or choke and could be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it may have slats that are not wide or may be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it might be too much for Cheap Baby Cots people who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1 have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.