The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms For Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and durable. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's strong enough. Look for cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your baby.
Find a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together as they could pose a danger of suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these could pose dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your best baby cots's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small cot beds footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and 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.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels which is lower than other cribs, but it could be a better option in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. Most are ready to use straight out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Be sure to be aware of the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with 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 items, such as screws and washers.
Beyond design, size is another factor to consider. A crib must be large enough for your child but not so big that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. 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 an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
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 a wider rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. It's simple to put together and durable, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a seated position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, and is perfect for parents who want a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child 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 constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have simple designs. They are easy to assemble and convert, and some come with a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can save space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The Best cot for newborn eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great option for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be attached to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and secured hardware. Also, ensure that it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda can) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they can be choking or risk of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely connected. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs since they could contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats which are too wide or may be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it might be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. 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.