Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide The Steps To Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for sturdy construction and slats 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 sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
- Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is solid enough. Look for cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Look for a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close together as they could pose a risk of being suffocated. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib as it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in a variety of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to put together. It also only has 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.
- Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They are usually ready to use right out of the box and take only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch the baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not too much, as this can cause the wood to break or strip threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of needed tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not so big that it will not pass through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not meet the latest 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 metal hardware than other options on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
- Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a longer rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could take up more space in your nursery than the smaller options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand the test of time. It's simple to put together and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which means you can begin your child in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, which is ideal for parents looking for an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
- Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature simple designs. They are typically simple to put together and convert, and a few have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which comes with an elegant design and top-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 comes with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
- Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda can) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can be choking or suffocation hazards. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and securely attached. Do not place blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can cause suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats may be too wide or it could be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it could be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar style but with fewer bells and whistles.