Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide To Recommended Cribs

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.

1. Sturdy

It is crucial that the crib is strong since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards 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 areas which could hurt your child.

Choose a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides because these can be harmful to your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile 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. Select a crib with a tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.

The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could get caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's a bit more costly than other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It has only three mattress levels, which is fewer than some other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time, it may be more suitable for your needs.

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.

Of course, you should always check that the crib is properly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly but not excessively as this can cause the wood to break or strip threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.

If you're considering a crib that requires assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list with the necessary items, such as screws and washers.

In addition to design, size is another consideration. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than some of the other choices on this list, however, some users have complained that it was more difficult to put together than needed due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib that will last through the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.

The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it by an extended rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle best cot beds or dressers to create a cohesive look.

The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could occupy more space in your nursery than the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your child in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents looking for a crib to be a part of the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy the rails separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs create an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are simple to put together and convert, and some come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray built-in. This can reduce space.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child, converting to a daybed, toddler cot bed sales or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The best rated cribs eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coatings.

Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the top priority when selecting the crib. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Also, make sure it meets the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.

Likewise make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely anchored. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These items can pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown away by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.

Also, do not use old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they may be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a great price, but it may be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but without the bells and whistles.