Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that's strong enough. Make sure that the best crib newborn you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could harm your child.
Choose a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close as this can pose a danger of suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these features can be dangerous for 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 helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great crib in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include a toddler rail and does not have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs, but it fulfills all our criteria and is simple to put together. It has just three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs. However, it's a good choice if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cot beds cribs don't require a full day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right from the box, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
You should always make sure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could cause broken threads or wood cracks. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video that can be helpful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list with the necessary items, such as washers and screws.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not too big that it can't be accessed through the standard doorway. Be cautious when using cribs that are older because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed hardware than the other options on this list though, and some users have complained that it was more difficult to set up than necessary because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib which will last through the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it by an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle cot beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is a little more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square feet of your nursery than the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's simple to put together and sturdy, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust that means you can start your child in a low spot which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, which is great for parents who want an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for the rails separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are usually easy to build and convert, and some include a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. They could also include additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best crib newborn eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is environmentally friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers timeless design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure the crib is sturdy and well-built, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, make sure it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda can), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything in between poses a strangulation risk.
Also make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you're planning to use baby monitors, select one that is clear of sight, so it does not block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your child and securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats might be too wide or it might be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist design. 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 with fewer bells and whistles.