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.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made from 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's important to choose a crib that is 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, think about avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your little one.
Find a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close as this could increase the danger of death from suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks great in the majority of rooms. It's only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and meets nearly all of our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for a long time it could be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. They are ready to use right out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Always ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is believed to be more secure than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not so big that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices 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
If you're seeking a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib that lasts well into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, as well as make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and looks great in any nursery. mini cot beds can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a cohesive look.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could take up more square feet of your nursery than some of the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to assemble and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents looking for a crib that can fit in an elegant nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase the rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your baby while promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically constructed from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most have a minimal design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are simple to put together, convert and some even have a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib safety should be the top priority. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with firmly-fitted and secure 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 either aligned with the ends of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between is the possibility of strangulation.
Also, keep all toys out of the crib as they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby with 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 attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Avoid using old cribs as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it could have slats which are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. 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 without the bells and whistles.