Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress sizes and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's solid enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your little one.
Avoid top ranked cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Also, you should look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these can pose an hazard for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that 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 option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could get caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in all rooms. The only drawback is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our criteria, including being extremely easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels, which is fewer than other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a long time, it may be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
You should always make sure that the crib is assembled properly and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could catch the baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which could lead to cracked wood or stripped threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of needed tools, including screws and washers.
Besides design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not so big that it will not pass through a standard opening. 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 great option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is constructed from durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to set up than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're seeking a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will help save space and money, as well as make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought - you simply take the side off and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted that means you can begin your child in a low, comfortable position which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they grow older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib that can fit into an elegant nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for those separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe sleep environment for your baby while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have simple designs. They are generally easy to build and convert, and a few include a changing tray or dresser attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child, converting to a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and has no harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, with timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Also, ensure that it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely attached. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and could cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats might be too wide, or they might be missing hardware. Old cribs can also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it could be too much for those who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 offer a similar design but with fewer bells and whistles.