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 less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress heights and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's solid enough. 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 focus on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your little one.
Look for solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close together, as this can pose a danger of death from suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides since these options could be harmful 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.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than some of the other options on this list, however it's stylish and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time it might be more suitable for your needs.
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. Most are ready to use straight out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Always ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could snag a baby. You should also be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which can lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib since it is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos that provide instruction that can be helpful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture parts. A good manual will include a list of required tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so large that it will not fit through a standard doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It has more exposed hardware than other options on this list, however, and some customers noted that it was more difficult to set up than necessary due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if would like a crib that will last well into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
This 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 less expensive options, but it's a beautiful piece that will 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 allows you to start your baby in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, and is great for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase those separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win situation. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to minimize the environmental impact. They are easy to set up and convert, and some have a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and has no 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 with an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. Its sturdy slats, made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies who have reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing a crib. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda bottle) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.
Additionally make sure that all toys are out of the crib because they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely attached. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. cheap cot bed can pose the risk of suffocation or choke and could be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it may have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it may be too much for those who want a minimal look. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport a similar style but less bells and whistles.