5 Laws To Help The Recommended Cribs Industry
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress sizes and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is strong since a baby will spend a lot of the time in it. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in most rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs. However, it might be preferable when you're planning 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 some of the larger cribs. Most are ready to use straight out of the package, and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Also, be aware of the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is believed to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of essential tools, like washers and screws.
In addition to the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three mattress heights and is made of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than other options on this list, however, and some customers found it more difficult to put together than necessary because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will save space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests, and it could occupy more space in your nursery than the other cribs, but it's a beautiful 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 handy. 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 get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents seeking a crib that will fit in the formal nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase them separately. Mini Cot Bed does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of organic and non-toxic materials. They also have a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and is free of toxic finishes or parts. 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 that has modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction at an affordable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing the crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Also, make sure it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda container) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely connected. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These can lead to the risk of suffocation or choke and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in great condition, the slats could be too wide or might 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 could be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.