Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it is important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, as these features may be dangerous to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, as it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other cribs on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than some other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for several years it might be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is properly constructed with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which can lead to broken threads or wood cracks. Find a solid wood crib since it is believed to be more secure than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
Besides the design, size is a different consideration. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost, and how long the crib lasts. If you're seeking a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take off the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and will look great in 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 other cribs in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for years. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights, which means you can begin your baby in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, and is great for parents looking for an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy those separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem 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, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have simple designs. They are simple to put together, convert and some even have a dresser or a changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Cot Bed make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child, converting to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also environmentally friendly.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction at an affordable price. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with well-fitting and sturdy hardware. 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 the footboard and corner posts that are aligned with the ends of the crib or extremely tall. see more in between is a danger of strangulation.
Additionally, keep all toys away from the crib since they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely attached. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can cause dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats may be too wide, or they could be missing hardware. Old cribs may also be painted with lead or unsafe 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 like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar look but without the bells and whistles.