10 Basics To Know Recommended Cribs You Didn't Learn In School
Top 5 Recommended Cribs You want a crib that is both safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart. One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included. 1. Sturdy It's important that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child. Find a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Also, look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these features can be an hazard for your child. Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery. The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib as it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can get caught on clothing or toys. 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 the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list. Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than some of the other options on this list, but it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our criteria, including being extremely easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a long time it could be better suited to your needs. 2. Easy to Assemble Many modern mini cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They're ready to use out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later. Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag the baby. Be sure to be aware of the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened but 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 easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of necessary supplies, such as washers and screws. Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough for your child but not so big that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards. The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. cots and tots comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than other options on this list, though, and some users noted that it was more complicated to assemble than needed because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions. 3. Convertible If you're looking for a crib which will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib which can last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will save you money and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows. Most cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought—you simply remove the side and replace it with a longer rail—Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design. This crib is more robust than other cribs we've tested tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for years. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which allows you to start your baby in a low spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they grow older. This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other 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 conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for those separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue for certain people. 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 found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have a minimalist design. They are easy to assemble and convert, and some come with a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can reduce space. Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They must be sturdy and durable to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made from organic and non-toxic materials. They also are low-VOC in their finish. Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and is green. Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers timeless design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux. 5. Safety First Safety should be the first priority when selecting the crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure it meets the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda container), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall—anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation. Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely attached. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These items can pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your infant or dragged down by older siblings. Also, do not use old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide or it may be missing hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous bolts and screws. The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.