Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it is important to find one that is solid enough. 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 child.
Find solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close as this can pose a danger of being suffocated. Find top ranked cribs that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be harmful to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have an infant rail and it doesn't have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the 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 other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day to assemble. They're ready to use straight out of the box, taking around 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is properly assembled without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of needed items, such as screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Be cautious when 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 fantastic option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and the length of time the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will help you save money and space, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It may use up more square feet of your nursery than some of the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's simple to put together and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights which allows you to start your child in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and raise 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 a formal nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and some include dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like a built in changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a 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 it is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and also environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when choosing a crib. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, 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 ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard and corner posts that are either aligned with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything that is in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that any cords are out of your child's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can pose choking and suffocation risks, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or lack hardware. Old cribs could also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimal look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but without the bells and whistles.