Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and Cots4tots slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
- Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it's important to find one that is strong enough. Find cribs that comply 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. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks beautiful in most rooms. The only drawback is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as the other cribs in this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than other options on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It also has only three mattress heights, which is lower than other cribs, however it's a good choice when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.
- Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They are usually ready to use right out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is securely constructed without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely but not excessively as this can cause the wood to break or strip threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of needed tools, including washers and screws.
In addition to design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not so large that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
- Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which can last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. If you're seeking a crib that will last into the age of three and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial 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 handy. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust that means you can begin your baby off in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents looking for a crib to fit into an elegant nursery. It is also easy to put together, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase them separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for certain.
- Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are simple to put together and convert, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached. This can reduce space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made from organic and non-toxic materials. They also come with a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also environmentally friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be attached to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
- Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting a crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, make sure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between is the risk of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they can pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely attached. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if a crib appears in good condition, the slats could be too wide, or they could be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options like 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.