Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong since a baby will spend most of the time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Also, avoid good cribs that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can save space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets all of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get stuck on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. The only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as the other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs, however it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not require an entire day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out of the box, taking around 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is properly assembled with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them securely but not too much because this could cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of items, such as screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib must be large enough for your child but not so large that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs might not meet the latest 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 heights and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than other choices on this list, though, and some users found it more complicated to assemble than needed due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib that lasts long into toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs and space, and make it easier to switch out the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that convert into full-size beds are an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could take up more square footage of your nursery than some of the other cribs however, it's a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. It's easy to set up 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 grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are looking for a crib to fit in a formal nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are simple to put together or convert, and some include a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child changing into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made from organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and environmentally friendly.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with a timeless style and high-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing the right crib. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. 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 the footboard, and corner posts that are in line with the panels at the end of the crib or very tall. Anything that is in between poses a possibility of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys away from the crib since they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely anchored. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown away by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide or it could be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a great price, but it may be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.