20 Resources To Make You More Efficient With Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong since a baby will spend the majority of their time in it. 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. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your little one.
Look for a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together, as they could pose a risk of suffocation. Also, search for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these features can be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, select linked resource site that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and doesn't have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs, but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It also only has three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs, but it might be preferable in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight out of the box and require only 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is properly assembled without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which can cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture components. A good manual will include a list with the required tools, including screws and washers.
Besides design, size is an additional consideration. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs might not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than the other choices on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to put together than necessary due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last until the age of toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could take up more square footage of your nursery than some of the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's simple to put together and sturdy, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start 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 design than the other two on this list, and is great for parents who want an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are typically simple to put together and convert, and a few come with dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Whatever their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and is environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers a timeless design and high-quality construction for 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 has an optional reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing a crib. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, ensure that it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses an opportunity for strangulation.
Likewise make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke and could be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs as they may contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats that are not wide or may be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it could be too much for those who want a minimal look. 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 with fewer bells and whistles.