Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's both safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend most of his or her 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, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause suffocation. Also, search for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these can pose a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence 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 make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks great in the majority of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, but it's stylish and meets almost all our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It has only three mattress levels which is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan on using the crib for a long time it might 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 larger cribs. They're ready to use straight out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which can result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires an assembly, choose one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not used to working with furniture pieces. Cot Bed will include a list of necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Besides design, size is another consideration. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so large that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options that are on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost and how long the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be turned into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could take up more space in your nursery than some of the smaller options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to assemble and sturdy even for parents who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib is more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, which is great for parents who want a crib that will look nice in a stately nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are usually simple to put together and convert, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and also green.
Another alternative 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 emissions of chemicals. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are flush with the ends of the crib or very tall. Anything that is in between poses a danger of strangulation.
Also make sure that all toys are out of the crib as they can be choking or risk of suffocation. If you're planning to use baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, make sure any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These can lead to the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or lack hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it may be too expensive for those who want a minimal look. Other options, such as 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.