Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase 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 most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is strong enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your baby.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Also, search for a crib that doesn't have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get stuck on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in a variety of rooms. It's only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs in this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than some of the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a long time it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need an entire day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They are ready to use out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is securely constructed without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child but not too big that it can't fit through an opening of a standard size. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed of durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to the elements than some of the other options on this list, however, and some customers found it more complicated to assemble than needed because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will save you money and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and will look great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless look.
best cots for newborns is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more space in your nursery than the smaller options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to assemble and sturdy even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that means you can begin your child in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is great for parents who want an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase those separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could 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 promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF, 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 typically simple to put together and convert, and a few come with a changing tray or dresser attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality wood, 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 a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting the crib. Make sure 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 approximately the size of a soda can), no decorative cutout designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything between is a strangulation risk.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they can pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to the risk of suffocation or choke and may be pushed or kicked by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in good condition, the slats may be too wide, or they could be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but could 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 a similar style but less bells and whistles.