Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that is solid 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 which could cause harm to your little one.
Look for a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close as they could pose a risk of suffocation. Also, search for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these could pose dangerous for best Cot beds your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets all of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks beautiful in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have an infant rail and does not have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.
Another recommended cribs crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is less than other cribs, however it's a good choice when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.
Beyond the design, size is a different consideration. A crib should be large enough for your child but not so big that it can't fit through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not be up to the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It is more exposed to the elements than the other choices on this list, however, and some customers found it more difficult to set up than necessary because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and will look great in every nursery. You can also bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more robust than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit into a formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to buy those separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. They are usually easy to build and convert, and a few have a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated use and clean. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
A great example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are 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 timeless design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing a crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure that it complies with 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 bottle) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Additionally make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely anchored. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can cause dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs because they could contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib is in good cribs condition, the slats might be too wide, or they could be lacking hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too expensive for those who want a simple design. Other options like 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.