The Intermediate Guide On Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that's solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.
Choose solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close together, as this can pose a risk of suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be harmful to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include an infant rail and does not have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for a long time it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to put together. They are ready to use out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch the baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
Besides the design, size is a different aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough for your child but not so big that it will not fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious about using cribs older than a year, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It is made from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options that are on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last well into toddlerhood. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs which transform into full-size beds are considered an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be turned into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is a little more substantial than other cribs in our tests, and it could occupy more square footage of your nursery than the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. Cot Bed say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position, which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit into a formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase those separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have a minimalist design. They are typically simple to put together and convert, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made from organic and non-toxic materials. They also come with a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats, made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib comes 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, security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and secure hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are either aligned with the end panels of the crib or extremely tall. Anything in between is the danger of strangulation.
Also make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These can cause dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown away by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Also, do not use old cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if a crib appears in good condition, the slats could be too wide or may be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it might be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.