Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is built to last because babies will spend a lot of their time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your little one.
Choose a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together, as this can pose a danger of death from suffocation. Also, search for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these could pose a hazard to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an infant rail and does not have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress, which is fewer than other cribs. If Baby Cot Bed plan on using the crib for a longer period of time it might be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They are usually ready to use straight out of the box and require only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is securely built without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them securely but not excessively because this could cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Find solid wood cribs as it is believed to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Besides the design, size is a different consideration. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
Most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could take up more square footage of 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 assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a low position, which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib to fit into an elegant nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase the rails separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are generally easy to build and change, and some include dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are either aligned with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything that is in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Also make sure that all toys are out of the crib because they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that is clear of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and may be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs as they may contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide or it might be missing hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive 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 less bells & whistles.