7 Simple Strategies To Completely Moving Your Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it's 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 are focused on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your child.
Find a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close as this could increase the danger of suffocation. Also, search for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose a hazard cots to tots your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could get caught on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in most rooms. It's only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs listed in this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it's stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for a long time it could be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need an entire day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right out of the box and only take 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly built with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can cause broken threads or wood cracks. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, look for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good cribs manual will include a list of necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not so large that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It has more exposed hardware than the other choices on this list, though, and some users have complained that it was more difficult to put together than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs don't come with many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and how long the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money and space and will make 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 take the side off and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than others in our tests. It may use up more square footage of your nursery cots than the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your cheap baby cots in a low position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, which is great for parents looking for a crib that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most have a minimal design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are typically simple to put together and convert, and some come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features like an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand repeated use and clean. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure that it meets 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) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses the risk of 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 is in a clear line of sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely connected. Don't keep any pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These can cause suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and could cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide or it could be missing hardware. Old cribs can also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.