Guide To Recommended Cribs: The Intermediate Guide On Recommended Cribs

Top 5 recommended cribs (cots4tots.co.uk)

You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. Look for solid construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.

1. Sturdy

It is essential that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Look for cribs that meet 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 cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your baby.

Avoid cribs with slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous to your child.

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs on this list.

Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It also has only three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs, but it could be a better option in the event that you plan to let 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, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day to put together. They are usually ready to use right out of the box and require only 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later.

Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is securely built with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Find solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.

Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video that can be helpful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture components. A good guide should also include a list of items, such as screws and washers.

In addition to the design, size is a different aspect to consider. A crib should be large enough for your child but not too big that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be cautious about using cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.

The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It has three mattress heights and is made of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list however, and some customers noted that it was more difficult to set up than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

Unlike strollers and car seats cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will save you money and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.

While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are considered an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in every nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.

This crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it could take up more space in your nursery than the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that means you can begin your baby off in a low, comfortable position that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they grow older.

This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is perfect for parents who want a crib that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase 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 are the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. 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 constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are generally easy to build and convert, and some have a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child changing into an infant bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and have a low-VOC finish.

Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.

Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.

5. Safety First

Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the crib. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. 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 either aligned with the end panels of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.

Likewise ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely attached. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.

Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it may have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose and dangerous bolts or screws.

The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.