How To Get More Value From Your Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your little one.
Look for solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close as this can pose a risk of being suffocated. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include an infant rail and does not have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than other options on this list, but it's stylish and meets almost all our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for a longer period of time it might be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They're ready to use straight out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. Also, be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that needs assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
Besides the design, size is a different aspect to consider. A crib must be large enough for your child but not so big that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. Be wary of cribs that are older, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want an elegant, modern crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options that are on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and how long the crib lasts. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will help 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 take off the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. 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 seamless design.
This crib is more robust than other cribs we've tested tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to set up 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 in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they grow older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit in an elegant nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. cot beds -friendly cribs are typically made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most have a minimal design to minimize the environmental impact. They are generally simple to put together and change, and some have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from 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 who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and eco-friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which comes with an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. 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 has an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting the crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and sturdy 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 the footboard, and corner posts that are in line with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is a danger of strangulation.
Additionally, keep all toys out of the crib as they can be choking or risk of suffocation. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight, so it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your baby and securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets, or positioners in the crib. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs as they may contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide, or they could be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low 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 DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar style but with fewer bells and whistles.