"The Recommended Cribs Awards: The Best, Worst, And Most Bizarre Things We've Seen
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is strong since a baby will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Also, search for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's a bit more costly than the other options on this list, however it's stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress, which is fewer than other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a long time it could be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs don't require an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is firmly constructed without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which could result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Choose a solid wood crib as it is considered to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of essential tools, like washers and screws.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not too big that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to the elements than some of the other choices on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to put together than needed because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and how long the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will save you money and space, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
The crib is more substantial than others in our tests. It may use up more square footage of your nursery than some of the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's easy to assemble and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with 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 grow older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, and is great for parents looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to assemble and convert, and some include a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs can come with additional features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They must be sturdy and durable to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and is eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, with an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure it is in line with 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) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. mini cot beds between can pose the risk of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib as they can be choking or suffocation hazards. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, ensure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs because they may have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats might be too wide, or they may be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar style but without the bells and whistles.