Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your baby.
Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close together as this could increase the risk of being suffocated. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with smaller footprints to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail and does not have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for several years it could be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day to put together. They're ready to use right out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares the cost of buying separate pieces.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is properly assembled without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them properly but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Choose a solid wood crib as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. great crib offer an instructional video for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list with the necessary tools, including washers and screws.
Beyond the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not so large that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be cautious about 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 great choice for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list however, and some customers found it more complicated to assemble than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. If you're seeking a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a cohesive look.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square feet of your nursery than some of the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust that allows you to start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents looking for a crib to fit in an elegant nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most are designed to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to build and convert, and a few include a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs and convert to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features like a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand the rigors of daily use and clean. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a good choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that offers modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: 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 poses a risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight so that it does not block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely attached. Don't keep any pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These can pose choking and suffocation risks and may be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, do not use old cribs because they could contain outdated features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or may be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.
