Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend a lot of the time in it. Find cribs that comply with the safety standards and regulations set 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 may have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your child.
Find a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close as this can pose a danger of being suffocated. Also, look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these can pose an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a sturdy crib, as it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks fantastic in most recommended cribs rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than some of the other cribs on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for several years, it may be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to put together. They're usually ready for use right out of the box and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is properly built with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure they're securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can lead to 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 a video tutorial that can be helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide will also include a list of required tools, including washers and screws.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your baby cot online, but not so large that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Also, 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 choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list, however, some users noted that it was more complicated to assemble than needed because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib which can last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are a last resort they can be removed from the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and looks great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more square feet of your nursery cots than some of the smaller options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are looking for a crib that can be a part of the formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for the rails separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child, while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are easy to set up, convert and some even come with a dresser or a changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child, converting to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly Baby beds cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood, and is free of harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that offers a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib sets, which offers timeless design and top-quality construction at an affordable 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 an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure that the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. 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 either flush with the end panels of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between is the danger of strangulation.
Additionally make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they can be choking or risk of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely attached. Don't keep any pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.