Pay Attention: Watch Out For How Recommended Cribs Is Taking Over And What To Do About It

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.

1. Sturdy

It's important that the crib is built to last because a baby will spend a lot of their time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your little one.

Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these could pose an hazard for your child.

Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get caught on clothing or toys. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and it doesn't have the same amount of slats like other cribs on this list.

Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels which is lower than other cribs, but it might be preferable when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cotbed cribs do not require a full day to put together. They're usually ready for use right out of the box and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.

Of course, you should always check that the crib is firmly assembled without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much because this could cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

If you're considering a crib that requires assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the required tools, including washers and screws.

Size is also important. A crib must be large enough for your child but not so large that it will not fit through an opening of a standard size. 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 choice for those who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than other options on this list though, and some users have complained that it was more complicated to assemble than necessary due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're looking for a crib which can last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're seeking a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, cribs Beds and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.

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 wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and will look great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless appearance.

The crib is much more sturdy than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for years. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust, which allows you to start your child in a low, comfortable position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise it as they get older.

This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for the rails separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs create a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and some include dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.

Certain brands offer 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. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand the rigors of daily use and cleaning. The best infant cribs eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.

Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and also eco-friendly.

Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have 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

Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure that it meets the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between can pose a strangulation risk.

Likewise, keep all toys away from the crib since they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one that is clear of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of the reach of your child and are securely connected. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.

Avoid using old cribs as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it could have slats that are not wide or lack hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it may be too much for people who want a minimal look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.