10 Meetups Around Recommended Cribs You Should Attend

Top 5 Recommended Cribs You want a crib that's both safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart. One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress heights and is constructed out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail. 1. Sturdy The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it is important to find one that is solid enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child. Choose look these up and avoid slats which are too close together as this could increase the risk of death from suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous for your child. Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is 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 crib for your baby because it meets all of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get stuck on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats as the other cribs on this list. Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It also has only three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs, however it might be preferable in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer. 2. Easy to Assemble A majority of modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together, unlike some larger cribs. They are ready to use right out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost 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 catch your baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can lead to broken threads or wood cracks. Choose a solid wood crib since it is believed to be safer than metal. Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers. The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it will not fit through a standard opening. Be cautious about using cribs that are older because they may not be in compliance with 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 comes with three mattress heights and is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble. 3. Convertible Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with many “features.” However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like aesthetics, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows. While most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought – you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider rail — Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look. This crib is more robust than other cribs we've tested tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that means you can start your baby off in a low spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they grow older. The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit into the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy those separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be an issue for some. 4. Eco-Friendly Eco-friendly cribs create a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and some have dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery. Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. Some cribs may have extra features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and are low-VOC in their finish. Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it has no harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean. Another option is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux. 5. Safety First When choosing a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure that it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between 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 extremely tall. Anything between is a strangulation risk. Likewise make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they can 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, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings. Beware of cribs that are older because they may have outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it may have slats that are not wide or lack hardware. Old cribs can 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 minimal style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have a similar style but less bells and whistles.