Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby cots online's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's strong enough. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be harmful to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more expensive than the other options 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 only has three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for several years it could be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern Mini Cot Bed cribs don't require a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. Most are ready cots to tots use straight out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is properly built with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, search for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it will not pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs because older cribs might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to the elements than other options on this list however, some users found it more complicated to assemble than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. If you're looking for a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
Most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is more robust than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib to fit in an elegant nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are minimalist in design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are generally easy to build and change, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child and convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated use and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and green.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and secure hardware. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are either in line with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is the danger of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they can pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby cots on sale that has a clear line-of-sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely attached. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other baby cot online cribs with positioners. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats that are not wide or may be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimal look. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.