Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top rated cots 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's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it is important to choose a crib that is strong enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be harmful to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels which is less than some other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for several years it might be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They're ready to use right out of the box, taking just about 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is firmly constructed without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which can cause stripped threads or cracking wood. Look for a solid wood crib as it is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that needs assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of needed items, such as screws and washers.
Beyond design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not so big that it can't be accessed through a standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and will look great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more robust than other cribs in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your baby in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, which is perfect for parents looking for a crib that will look stylish in a grand nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase these separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
cots 4 tots. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made from solid wood or sustainable and renewable 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 to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child, converting to an infant Cot Bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional 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 best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
A great example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood, 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 to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the ends of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between is the possibility of strangulation.
Additionally, keep all toys out of the crib because they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely connected. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or positioning devices in the crib. These items can pose suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs as they could be equipped with outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats may be too wide or it may be lacking hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a great price, but it could be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as 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.