Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's strong enough. Find cribs that comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your little one.
Find a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close together as they could pose a risk of death from suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a sturdy crib, as it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to put together. It has just three mattress height levels, which is less than some other cribs, but it could be a better option when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. cheap cots include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them up securely but not too much as this can cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Find a solid wood crib since it is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers include videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who might not be familiar with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough for your child but not too big that it will not pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
great crib in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last until the age of toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
While most cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and will look great in every nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more space in your nursery than some of the smaller options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand up to the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which means you can begin your child in a low spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, and is ideal for parents looking for a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are simple to put together and convert, and some have a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child changing into a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and is environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the ends of the crib or extremely tall. Anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Also, keep all toys out of the crib as they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one with a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely connected. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or may be missing hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar style but without the bells and whistles.