10 Essentials To Know Recommended Cribs You Didn't Learn In The Classroom
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is strong because a baby will spend a lot of the time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your baby.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides because these can be dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could get caught on toys or clothing, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and it doesn't have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is simple to put together. It has only three mattress levels that is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a long time it might be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to assemble. best cots uk are ready to use straight out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
You should always make sure that the crib is properly assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires an assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the required tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so large that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is made of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, 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 purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are considered an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is more robust than other cribs we've tested tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for years. It's easy to assemble and sturdy, even for parents who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two on this list, and is ideal for parents who want an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many are minimalist in design to minimize the environmental impact. They are typically simple to put together and change, and some include a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers timeless design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be attached to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Verify that it complies with 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 panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between poses a possibility of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats which are too wide or be missing some hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 offer a similar design but with fewer bells and whistles.