Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it's important to find one that is solid enough. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your baby.
Choose a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close together, as this can pose a danger of suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in the majority of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail and it doesn't have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It has only three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for several years it might be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not need a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could cause stripped threads or cracking wood. Look for a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not so big that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to put together than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which can last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and looks great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
cheap cots is more substantial than others in our tests. It could take up more square feet of your nursery than the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights that means you can begin your baby in a low, comfortable position that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents seeking a crib that will fit in the formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for those separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some have a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and sturdy hardware. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are either aligned with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between is a risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have outdated construction features that 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, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.