Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. cot sets comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it is important to find one that is strong enough. Find cribs that comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your baby.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have an infant rail and does not have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress which is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to put together. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which could lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, choose one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos that provide instruction, which is helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of needed supplies, like screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the market. Some users also noted 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 come with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last until the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
The crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more square feet of your nursery than some of the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to 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 comes with three adjustable mattress heights that means you can start your child in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit in the formal nursery. It is also easy to put together, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions 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 usually easy to assemble and change, and some come with an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing a crib. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Check that it meets 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 end panels of the crib or extremely tall. Anything in between is the danger of strangulation.
Likewise make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they can be choking or suffocation hazards. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of reach of your child and securely anchored. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These items can pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown away by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs because they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats could be too wide or it could be lacking hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too expensive for those who want a minimal look. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.