Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend the majority of his or her time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these can pose dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with smaller footprints to 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 criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. cheap cot beds are that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and it doesn't have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than the other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for a long time it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They're ready to use out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly built with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which could result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Find solid wood cribs as it is believed to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the required tools, including washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is an additional aspect to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child, but not so large that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than the other options on this list, however, some users found it more difficult to put together than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it with a wider rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a cohesive look.
The crib is much more sturdy than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's simple to put together and sturdy even for parents who aren't skilled. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit into 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 purchase the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which may be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are simple to put together, convert and some even have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached. This can help save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand the rigors of daily use and cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that has modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are aligned with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses a danger of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys away from the crib since they can be choking or suffocation hazards. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These can pose choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Avoid using old cribs because they may have outdated features that could cause injury. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have a similar style but less bells and whistles.