10 Things We All Hate About Recommended Cribs

Top 5 Recommended Cribs

When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.

One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail.

1. Sturdy

It is essential that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.

Choose a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close as this could increase the danger of death from suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose an hazard for your child.

Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it will save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.

DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that might get stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with an infant rail and doesn't have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.

Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs, but it could be a better option when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer.

2. Easy to Assemble

In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use right out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.

You should always make sure that the crib is properly assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which could result in broken threads or wood cracks. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.

If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video which can be useful for those who may not be used to working with furniture components. A good manual should include a list of needed tools, including screws and washers.

Beyond design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not too big that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not be up to the latest 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 constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, though, and some users have complained that it was more difficult to set up than necessary because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.

3. Convertible

If you're seeking a crib that can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.

While most cribs which convert into full-size cheap cot beds are a last resort, you simply remove the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be converted into bed frames. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal 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 larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square footage of your nursery than the smaller options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust which means you can begin your child in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they grow older.

This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, and is great for parents looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.

4. Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or baby crib sustainable and renewable materials, and many have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are typically simple to put together and convert, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached, which can help save space in the nursery.

Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed, or baby crib full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Whatever their ability to convert they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The best cots eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.

Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is green.

Namesake is another option that cots offers timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its sturdy slats, made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side to create an even slope for infants with reflux.

5. Safety First

When you are choosing a crib safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secure hardware. Also, ensure that it complies with 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 container), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything in between poses an opportunity for strangulation.

Also ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and securely attached. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.

Do not use cribs that are old because they may have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it could have slats that are too wide or may be missing hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.

The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but 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 Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but less bells & whistles.