Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend a lot of their time in it. Look for cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, you should look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs in this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is simple to put together. It has only three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for a long time it could be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day to assemble. Most are ready to use right out of the box and require only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is securely built with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which could result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires an assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers include a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it will not fit through an opening of a standard size. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib lasts. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last well into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
While most cribs which transform into full-size beds are an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests. It may use up more square footage of your nursery than some of the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents who want a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to buy the rails separately. crib sets is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have simple designs. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and a few include dressers or changing tables attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child changing into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Also, make sure it meets 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 can), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between is the risk of strangulation.
Also ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely attached. Never place pillows, blankets, or positioners inside the crib. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they could be missing hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it might be too expensive for those who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.