Don't Make This Silly Mistake With Your Recommended Cribs

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib, you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is sturdy enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus 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.

Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these could pose a hazard to your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby as it meets most of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be caught on toys or clothing, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs in this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels which is less than some other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for several years, it may be more suitable for your needs.

2. Easy to Assemble

Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to assemble. They are usually ready to use straight out of the box and require only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that spares the cost of buying separate pieces.

Of course, you should always check that the crib is properly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can lead to broken threads or wood cracks. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video, which is helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide will include a list of essential tools, like washers and screws.

Beyond design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not so big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, as they may 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 comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list, however, some users found it more complicated to assemble than necessary because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost, and how long the crib will last. If you're seeking a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.

While most cribs which transform into full-size beds are an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be converted into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.

This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square feet of your nursery than the less expensive 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 handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby in a low position, which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.

The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit into a formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be an issue for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and some have dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.

Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. They might also come with additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.

A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and is free of toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified 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 alternative is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.

5. Safety First

When you are choosing a crib safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are either in line with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is a possibility of strangulation.

Additionally, keep all toys out of the crib because they can be choking or risk of suffocation. If you're planning to use baby monitors, select one with a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, ensure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely connected. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These can cause dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.

Also, avoid using old cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats which are too wide or may be missing hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe bolts and screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, www.cots4tots.co.uk but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.