Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend most of the time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts, or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may impact your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy crib, as it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an infant rail and doesn't have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than some of the other cribs on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels, which is less than other cribs, however it's a good choice if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require a full day to put together. They're usually ready for use straight out of the box and require only 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is properly constructed with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them up securely but not excessively, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Find solid wood cribs as it is considered cots to tots be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list with the necessary tools, including screws and washers.
Besides design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child, but not so big that it will not fit through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It has more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list though, and some users noted that it was more complicated to assemble than necessary because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if would like a crib that will last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle cheap cot beds or dressers for a seamless look.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could take up more square footage of your nursery than some of the other cribs (visit the up coming article) however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's easy to set up and durable even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights that means you can begin your child in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift tots and cots raise as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents who want a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It is also easy to put together, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be an issue for certain 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 emissions and Best cot bed chemicals that are found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are typically easy to assemble and convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features like an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand the rigors of daily use and clean. The best eco-friendly cribs are made from organic and non-toxic materials. They also have a low-VOC finish.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no 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 who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and environmentally friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. Its sturdy slats are made 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 added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure it is in line 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 can), no decorative cutout designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses a strangulation risk.
Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib because they can be choking or suffocation hazards. If you're planning to use baby monitors, select one with a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely anchored. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it could have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.