Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. 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 comes with four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
- Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend a lot of their time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be harmful to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with a toddler rail, and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for several years it might be more suitable for your needs.
- Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require an entire day to put together. They're usually ready for use right from the box, and take only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can cause broken threads or wood cracks. Look for solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of needed supplies, like washers and screws.
In addition to design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than other options on this list, however, some users found it more difficult to put together than needed because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
- Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts well into the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are considered an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and looks great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more space in your nursery than some of the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your baby in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib that can be a part of an elegant nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.
- Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have a minimalist design. They are typically easy to build and convert, and some have a changing tray or www.Cots4tots.co.uk dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child, converting to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated use and clean. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
A great example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, with timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. 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 of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
- Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing the crib. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having 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 panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between poses a danger of strangulation.
Likewise make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your baby and securely connected. Do not place blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These items can pose the risk of choking or suffocation and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats might be too wide or it may be missing hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose and dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.