Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs
top ranked cribs 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend the majority of the time in it. 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 structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these could pose a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a a small footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. It's only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as the other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to put together. It has just three mattress height levels which is lower than other cribs, but it could be a better option in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to put together. In fact, most are ready to use straight out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much because this could cause the wood to break or strip threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is believed to be more secure than metal.
If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial that can be helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list with the necessary tools, including washers and screws.
Besides design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not too big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options on the market. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. If you're seeking a crib that will last into the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are considered an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and will look great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle cot bed sales and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery cots, but it will last for years. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which means you can begin your baby in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib to fit into a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most are minimalist in design to minimize the environmental impact. They are simple to put together, convert and some even come with a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can help save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert they must be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also are low-VOC in their finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers timeless design and top ranked cribs-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, 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 with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing the crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are either flush with the end panels of the crib or extremely tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they can pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of the reach of your child and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or positioners in the crib. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or lack hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it may be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.