Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is built to last because babies will spend a lot of their time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Also, search for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these features can be an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies as it meets most of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as other cribs in this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for several years it could be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They are usually ready to use right from the box, and take only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a baby. You should also be aware of the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be cots to tots that they are securely tightened, but don't over-tighten them, which can cause stripped threads or cracking wood. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers include an instructional video which can be useful for those who may not be used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list of essential tools, like screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it can't fit through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib which will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider getting one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
Most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and will look great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. cots to tots have praised it as sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which means you can begin your baby off in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents seeking a crib that will fit in the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be an issue for certain people.
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. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are usually simple to put together and convert, and a few have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child and convert to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
An excellent example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a good choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for 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
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing a crib. Make sure the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard and corner posts that are either flush with the panels at the end of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses a danger of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib because they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, choose one that is clear of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely connected. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs as they may contain outdated features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it may have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 offer a similar design but with fewer bells and whistles.