5 Laws That Can Help In The Recommended Cribs Industry
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is strong enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Choose a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close together, as this can pose a danger of being suffocated. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have an infant rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more costly than the other options on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight 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 having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is firmly assembled without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them properly, but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Choose a solid wood crib since it is considered to be more secure than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, look for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos that provide instruction, which is helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture components. A good manual will include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
In addition to design, size is another factor to consider. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so large that it will not fit through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list though, and some users noted that it was more complicated to assemble than they needed to due to the mislabeled components and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which can last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib that lasts well into toddlerhood. This will save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be converted into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
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. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your baby in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib to fit in the formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to shop for those separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have simple designs. They are usually easy to build and change, and some have dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. Baby beds that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, make sure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda bottle), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is a strangulation risk.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely anchored. Don't place any blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can lead to the risk of suffocation or choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could contain outdated features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
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 Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar style but without the bells and whistles.