Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial 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 the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your little one.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be harmful to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs, however it might be preferable if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs many modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. They're ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly built with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of items, such as washers and screws.
Besides design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not so large that it will not fit through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs might not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the market. A few users also mentioned 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, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and how long the crib will last. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than others in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery than some of the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights which means you can begin your child in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two on this list, and is ideal for parents looking for 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 conversion rails, eliminating the need to shop for the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe sleep environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are designed to reduce the environmental impact. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some have a dresser or a changing tray built-in. This can save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, with an elegant design and top-quality construction at a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low 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
Safety should be the top priority when selecting the right crib. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, ensure it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything between is a strangulation risk.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight, so it doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide or it might be missing hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
cot sale is an excellent value, however it could be too much for those who prefer a minimal design. 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 without the bells and whistles.