11 "Faux Pas" That Actually Are Okay To Create Using Your Recommended Cribs
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's solid enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Choose solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close as they could pose a risk of suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these features can be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it will save space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have an infant rail and does not have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on 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 simple to put together. It has only three mattress levels that is less than other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time, it may be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They are usually ready to use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is properly built with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Look for solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of items, such as screws and washers.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be large enough for your child but not too big that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. 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 who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is made from durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options that are on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're seeking a crib that will last into the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will save space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs we've tested tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which means you can start your baby in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
Baby Cot Bed is more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, which is great for parents who want an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing a safe sleep environment for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are generally easy to build and convert, and some have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs , which are designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand frequent use and clean. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is green.
Namesake is another option, with timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. 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 suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secure hardware. 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 on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything between is the risk of strangulation.
Likewise make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely attached. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or positioning devices in the crib. These can cause suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown away by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats may be too wide or it could be missing hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.