Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It includes four mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

It is essential that the crib is strong because a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.

Avoid cribs with 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, since these options could be dangerous for your child.

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only drawback is that it doesn't have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it's stylish and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, but it could be a better option if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Modern mini cot beds cribs do not need a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use straight out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.

Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is properly built without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which can cause stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.

If you're looking at a crib that requires an assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.

The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it will not pass 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 looking for a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices that are on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.

3. Convertible

If you're seeking a crib that will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, baby cot look into one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib that can last until the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.

The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost every 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, and it could take up more space in your nursery than the smaller options, but it's a beautiful 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 handy. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust that allows you to start your baby off in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.

This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are looking for a crib to fit in the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase the rails separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe sleep environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions, and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have a minimalist design. They are typically easy to build and convert, and a few include dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.

A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified Best cot for newborn low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and also environmentally friendly.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are either in line with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is the danger of strangulation.

Also ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your baby and securely attached. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide, or they could be missing hardware. Old cribs can also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable 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, have a similar style but less bells and whistles.