Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is both safe and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to find one that is sturdy enough. Find cribs that comply with safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your baby.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a a small footprint to save space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is simple to put together. It has only three mattress levels, which is fewer than other cribs. If you plan on using the crib for a long time, it may be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They are usually ready to use straight from the box, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is properly built without gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them up securely but not too much because this could cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who may not be familiar with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of needed items, such as washers and screws.
In addition to design, size is an additional consideration. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so large that it won't fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of cribs older than a year, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is made of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices that are on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a larger 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. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that means you can start your baby in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit into the formal nursery. It is also easy to put together, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are easy to set up, convert and some even come with a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can reduce space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers timeless design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, ensure it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda can), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight, so it doesn't block your view. Also, make cribs beds are out of reach of your child and are securely anchored. Don't place any blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide or it may be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features for a reasonable price, but it could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.