Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide For Recommended Cribs

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 under 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

It is essential that the crib is sturdy because a Baby Crib will spend the majority of the time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your baby.

Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous for your child.

Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby as it meets most of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with a toddler rail, and doesn't have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more expensive than the other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs. However, it could be a better option 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 a full day to put together. They're ready to use straight out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is securely constructed without gaps or rough areas that could catch your Baby Crib. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them properly but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is considered to be more secure than metal.

Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of tools, including screws and washers.

Size is also important. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not so large that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want an elegant, modern crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It's got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list, though, and some users noted that it was more difficult to put together than needed due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.

While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless look.

This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could take up more square footage of your nursery than the other cribs however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.

This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, and is perfect for parents who want a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could be an issue for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to set up, convert and some even have a dresser or changing tray attached. This can help save space.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to a daybed, toddler infant cot bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best cots for newborns eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.

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

Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction at a reasonable 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 also has an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib cots to tots create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the primary priority when choosing a crib. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are aligned with the ends of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is a risk of strangulation.

Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.

Also, do not use old cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide or may be lacking hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.