10 Things We Are Hateful About Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be secure 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 includes four mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. crib sets comes with a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that is sturdy enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Look for a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close together, as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Also, you should look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these features can be dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and does not have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress height levels, which is less than other cribs, but it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require an entire day to assemble. They're ready to use out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is securely built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. You should also be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically 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 since it is believed to be more secure than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.
In addition to design, size is an additional aspect to consider. A crib must be large enough for your child but not so big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs that are older as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is made from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to put together than needed because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last until the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has 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 combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your child in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib that can fit in the formal nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe sleep environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are usually simple to put together and change, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
A great example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood, and is free of harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built 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 footboard, and corner posts that are either flush with the end panels of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between is a danger of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide or may be missing hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.