5 Laws That Can Help To Improve The Recommended Cribs Industry
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It includes four mattress heights and is constructed out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your little one.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy crib, as it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels that is less than other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for several years it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to put together. They're usually ready for use right out of the package, and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is assembled properly and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Find a solid wood crib as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial that can be helpful for those who may not be familiar with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the required tools, including screws and washers.
In addition to the design, size is a different consideration. A crib must be large enough for your child but not so large that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is made of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last well into toddlerhood. This will help you save money and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
Most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.
The crib is much more sturdy than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, and is great for parents looking for a crib that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions 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, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and a few include dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand the rigors of daily usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also have a low-VOC finish.
A great example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants 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, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, make sure 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 on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses a strangulation risk.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one that has a clear line of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely anchored. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These items can pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if Cots 4 Tots UK is in good condition, the slats might be too wide, or they may be lacking hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it may be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.