Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with smaller footprints to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside 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 more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to put together. It only has three mattress levels that is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time, it may be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They are ready to use out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which can result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Choose a solid wood crib as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial which can be useful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
In addition to the design, size is a different consideration. A crib should be big enough for your child but not so large that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be cautious about using cribs that are older, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib will last. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
Baby Cot Bed is more robust than other cribs we've tested tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. It's simple to put together and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted, which means you can start your baby off in a low position that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they get older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, which is ideal for parents who want a crib that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are usually simple to put together and change, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs may have extra features like an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib with an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option that offers timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. Its sturdy slats 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 affixed to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with firmly fitted and secured hardware. Make sure it is in compliance 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 aligned with the ends of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between is a possibility of strangulation.
Also ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could contain outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it may have slats that are too wide or lack hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.