Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in the crib, so it's important to choose a crib that is sturdy enough. 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 are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Find a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close as they could pose a risk of suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these features can be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include an infant rail and it doesn't have as many slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than other options on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs. However, it's a good choice if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not need a full day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They are ready to use out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Also, pay attention to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the required tools, including washers and screws.
Size is also crucial. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not so large that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs that are older as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the market. Some users also noted that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib which will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a wider rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle cot beds for sale or dressers to create a cohesive look.
This crib is more robust than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's easy to set up and sturdy even for parents who aren't skilled. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a seated position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is perfect for parents looking for a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best cots for newborns of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child, while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are minimalist in design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and a few include dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their ability to convert they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made 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 it has no toxic 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 with modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering timeless design tots and cots high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies who have reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib safety should be the top priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Check that it meets 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 in line with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses the possibility of strangulation.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can be choking or risk of suffocation. If you're planning to use baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight, so it does not block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely anchored. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other Baby Crib cribs with positioners. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks, and can be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs because they could contain outdated features that could result in injuries. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide, or they could be lacking hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a great price, but it might be too expensive for those who want a minimal look. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar style but without the bells and whistles.