Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with 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's strong enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your little one.
Choose a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together, as this can pose a risk of being suffocated. Also, search for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these could pose dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs, however it could be a better option in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight from the box, and take only 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is securely assembled with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Also, be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, most recommended cribs don't over-tighten them, which could lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so large that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking Best cot for newborn a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It has more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more complicated to assemble than they needed to due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and looks great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your child in a low position which is easy for caregivers 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 great for parents looking for a crib that will look stylish in a grand nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which may be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some include a dresser or changing tray attached. This can help save space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated use and cleaning. The best crib eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, with timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its sturdy slats, made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and secured hardware. Verify that it complies with 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 panels at the end of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses a risk of strangulation.
Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely connected. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other baby cribs with positioners. These items can cause the risk of suffocation or choke and may be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats that are not wide or may be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimal look. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.