10 Fundamentals On Recommended Cribs You Didn't Learn In School
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is built to last since a baby will spend the majority of their time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Find a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together as this can pose a danger of being suffocated. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid similar web page that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could affect 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 that has a small footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with a toddler rail and does not have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress which is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for several years, it may be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require an entire day to put together. They are ready to use straight out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to a baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely, but don't over-tighten them, which could cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is believed to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list with the necessary supplies, like washers and screws.
Mini Cot Bed is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not so big that it can't pass through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs, as 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 an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs which transform into full-size beds are 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 converted into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.
This crib is more robust than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a low position, which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, which is great for parents who want a crib that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase those separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are minimalist in design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are simple to put together, convert and some even come with a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can reduce space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of 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. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure 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 can), no decorative cutout designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels 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. If you want to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely connected. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide or may be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it might be too much for people who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.