Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide Towards Recommended Cribs
Top 5 recommended cribs, understanding,
You need a crib that is both safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. 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 is likely to spend the majority of their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to find one that is strong enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have 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 include a toddler rail, and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, but it's stylish and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being extremely easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs, however it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern Mini Cot Bed cribs don't require an entire day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use right out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a baby. You should also be aware of the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which could cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial which can be useful for those who might not be familiar with furniture components. A good guide will include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.
Beyond design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not so large that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than other choices on this list, however, some users noted that it was more difficult to put together than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib which can last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a larger rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle best cot beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
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 durable even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which allows you to start your child in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are looking for a crib that can be a part of an elegant nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child changing into a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Whatever their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and also green.
Namesake is another option that cots offers timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its 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 affixed to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Also, make sure it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely connected. Do not place blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have outdated construction features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it could have slats which are too wide or Mini Cot Bed may be missing hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimal style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar style but less bells & whistles.