Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide In Recommended Cribs

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

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

1. Sturdy

It is crucial that the crib is built to last because a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.

Avoid cribs with slats that are too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, look for a crib that doesn’t include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these features can be an hazard for your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It’s also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our criteria. It’s easy to clean, doesn’t include any exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn’t have an infant rail and does not have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It’s a bit more costly than the other cribs on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs. However, it’s a good choice if you’re planning to have your baby use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don’t require an entire day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use straight out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.

Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren’t any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure they’re tightened securely but don’t over tighten them, which can cause stripped threads or cracking wood. Find solid wood cribs as it is believed to be more secure than metal.

Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the required tools, including washers and screws.

Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough for your child but not so big that it will not fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs 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 has three different mattress height settings and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It’s got more exposed hardware than the other choices on this list, however, some users noted that it was more difficult to set up than needed due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don’t have a lot of “features.” However, that doesn’t mean parents shouldn’t consider other factors such as aesthetics, price, and how long the crib lasts. If you’re looking for a crib that will last through the age of three and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.

While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like a gimmick–you just take off the side and replace it with a longer rail — Oeuf has designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It’s GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and looks great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.

The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square feet of your nursery than the other cribs however, it’s a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. It’s easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who don’t have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, and is ideal for parents who want a crib that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many are designed to reduce the impact on the environment. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and a few come with dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child, converting to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made from organic, non-toxic materials and have a low-VOC finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.

Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top-quality construction at an affordable 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 features an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.

5. Safety First

When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure it complies with 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 bottle) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall–anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely anchored. Don’t keep any pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.

Also, do not use old cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats that are too wide or may be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimal style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter’s by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.