Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. small cot beds includes four mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is built to last because babies will spend most of their time in it. Look for cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused 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 the child to suffocate. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can affect 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 build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It has only three levels of mattress that is less than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for a long time it could be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which can cause cracked wood or stripped threads. Look for a solid wood crib since it is believed to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers include an instructional video which can be useful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of tools, including screws and washers.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not too big that it can't fit through an opening of a standard size. Be wary of cribs that are older as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed metal hardware than the other options on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space, and make it easier to change 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 with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's simple to put together and sturdy, even for parents who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a low position, which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This 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 an elegant nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy those separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are designed to minimize the impact on the environment. They are generally simple to put together and change, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing the crib. Be sure that the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, make sure it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda can) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is the risk of strangulation.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. If you're considering using a baby monitor, choose one that has 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 securely attached. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks and could be pushed or kicked by your child.
Avoid using old cribs as they could be equipped with outdated features that could cause injury. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they might be lacking hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 offer a similar design but without the bells and whistles.