Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is both safe and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that's solid enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your baby.
Choose a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close as this can pose a danger of suffocation. Also, look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these could pose dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib, since it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. It's only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's a bit more costly than other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and meets almost all our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three mattress levels, which is fewer than other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for a longer period of time, it may be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. They are ready to use out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to be aware of the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them securely but not excessively because this could cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Find solid wood cribs as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, search for 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 used to working with furniture parts. A good manual will include a list of necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not too big that it can't fit through an opening of a standard size. Be cautious when using cribs that are older, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress height settings and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. infant cot bed lets you start your baby in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, which is great for parents looking for a crib that looks nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for those separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are designed to reduce the impact on the environment. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and some have a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child, converting to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated use and clean. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also environmentally friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Make sure it is in compliance 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 either in line with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is the risk of strangulation.
Additionally, keep all toys out of the crib because they can pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely connected. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or positioners in the crib. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Beware of cribs that are older as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats might be too wide or might be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it could be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options like 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.