11 "Faux Pas" That Actually Are Okay To Make With Your Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that is solid enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Also, you should avoid cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your little one.
Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close together as they could pose a danger of death from suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts, or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and doesn't have as many slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for a long time it might 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're usually ready for use right out of the box and take only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of cheap cot beds , you must ensure that the crib is securely built with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also be aware of the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them securely but not excessively because this could cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video, which is helpful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture components. A good guide should also include a list of needed supplies, like washers and screws.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of 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 who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, however, some users have complained that it was more complicated to assemble than necessary because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last long into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are considered an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it by an extended rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust that means you can begin your baby off in a low spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are looking for a crib to fit in a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to shop for the rails separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your child, while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are usually simple to put together and change, and some have a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of non-toxic, organic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, make sure it complies with the 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 bottle) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely connected. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats could be too wide, or they might be lacking hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it could be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.