Why No One Cares About Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that is strong enough. Look for cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Find solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together, as this could increase the risk of being suffocated. Also, you should look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose a hazard to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with smaller footprints to minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an infant rail and doesn't have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It has just three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs. However, it might be preferable if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together, unlike some larger cribs. Most are ready to use straight out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list with the necessary items, such as washers and screws.
Besides design, size is another consideration. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it will not fit through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great choice for those who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the list. tots and cots complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
While most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take off the side and replace it with a longer rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs we've tested 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 don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights, which means you can start your baby in a low spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
This crib is more of a traditional design 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 rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could 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 while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the impact on the environment. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, with timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of 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 who have reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the crib. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid 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 slats (that's about the width of a soda can), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between is a strangulation risk.
Likewise make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely attached. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown away by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or lack hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it might be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.