Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs
top ranked cribs 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's sturdy 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 with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Look for a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this could increase the risk of death from suffocation. Also, look for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these can pose a hazard to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with an infant rail and does not have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is simple to put together. It only has three mattress levels which is less than other cribs beds. However, if you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time it might be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is properly constructed with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby cots on sale. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Find a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of items, such as screws and washers.
Size is also important. 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. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options on the market. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib lasts. If you're seeking a crib that will last into the age of three and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will free up space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is a little more substantial than other cribs in our tests, and it could occupy more space in your nursery 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 don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby in a low position, which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two on this list, and is ideal for parents who want an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some come with a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can reduce space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like a built in changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also green.
Namesake is another option, offering timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be affixed 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 security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secured hardware. Also, make sure it is in line 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 headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can be choking or risk of suffocation. If you want to use a Baby Cot Bed monitor, choose one that has a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they may be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it could be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options, like 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.