What To Focus On When Improving Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Mini Cot Bed of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Find solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close as they could pose a risk of suffocation. Also, search for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these features can be an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it will save space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets all 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 most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with a toddler rail and it doesn't have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it's stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being super-easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels which is less than some other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for a long time, it may be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. Most are ready to use straight out of the box and take only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch the baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much because this could cause the wood to break or strip threads. Look for a solid wood crib as it is considered to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of supplies, like screws and washers.
In addition to design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be large enough for your child but not too big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last well into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. infant cot bed is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than others in our tests. It could occupy more space in your nursery than the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's easy to set up and durable even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust, which means you can start your baby off in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents looking for an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also easy to put together, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase them separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the impact on the environment. They are easy to set up or convert, and some include a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their capabilities to convert they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and has no harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats of the crib 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 who have reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Make sure it is in compliance 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 either in line with the end panels of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between is a possibility of strangulation.
Also, keep all toys away from the crib since they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely anchored. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older because they may have outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats could be too wide or it could be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist style. 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 look but less bells & whistles.