Twenty Myths About Recommended Cribs: Busted
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong 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 concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your baby.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts, or drop-sides because these can be harmful to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib as it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get caught 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 costly than other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our requirements, such as being super-easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs, however it might be preferable if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use right out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which can lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Find a solid wood crib as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers include an instructional video that can be helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide will also include a list of required tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. tots and cots has three different mattress height settings and is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib will last. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.
The crib is more substantial than others in our tests. It could occupy more square footage of your nursery than some of the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which means you can begin your child in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, and is great for parents who want a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most are designed to reduce the environmental impact. They are easy to assemble and convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray built-in. This can reduce space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand frequent use and clean. The best eco-friendly cribs are made from non-toxic, organic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. tots and cots is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable 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 comes with an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the crib. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure that it complies with 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) 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 the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely connected. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or positioners in the crib. These items can pose suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in great condition, the slats may be too wide, or they could be lacking hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist look. 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.