10 Fundamentals About Recommended Cribs You Didn't Learn In School
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be secure and durable. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress sizes and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid best infant cribs that have loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Find solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this could increase the danger of death from suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can save space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs on this list, however it's stylish and meets almost all our requirements, such as being super-easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress heights, which is less than other cribs. However, it might be preferable when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right out of the box and take only 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is firmly constructed without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them securely but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video which can be useful for those who might not be familiar with furniture parts. A good guide should also include a list of needed supplies, like washers and screws.
In addition to the design, size is a different aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so large that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is made of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other choices on this list, however, and some customers found it more difficult to set up than needed due to the mislabeled components and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that can last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last long into toddlerhood. This will save space and money, as well as make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's simple to put together and durable, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which allows you to start your baby off in a low, comfortable position that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.
This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, and is perfect for parents looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to buy those separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are easy to set up and convert, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can reduce space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features, such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing a crib. Be sure that the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure it is in line with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Also ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they can be choking or suffocation hazards. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely connected. Do not place blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can cause dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats could be too wide or it may be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist design. 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 style but with fewer bells and whistles.