Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is strong because babies will spend most of their time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, why not try these out should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close as this could increase the danger of being suffocated. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can save space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs, but it might be preferable in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use right out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is securely constructed with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which could result in cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires an assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of needed supplies, like screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it will not fit through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs older than a year, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is made from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than the other options on this list, however, some users noted that it was more difficult to put together than needed because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that can last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider cot sale if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will save you money and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a longer rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
This crib is more robust than other cribs we've tested tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those 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 spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and raise as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, which is ideal for parents looking for a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase the rails separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which might be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are typically 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 offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert they must be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and is eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing the crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting 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 footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels of the crib, or very tall. Anything that is in between poses the possibility of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can pose choking and suffocation risks, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide, or they might be lacking hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar style but with fewer bells and whistles.