Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong since a baby will spend a lot of the time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards 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 areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these features can be a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could impact your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, select a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby as it meets most of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in most rooms. It's only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs listed in this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It also only has three mattress heights, which is lower than other cribs, but it might be preferable when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs don't require an entire day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. Most are ready to use right out of the box and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them properly but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that needs assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of needed tools, including washers and screws.
Besides design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so big that it will not pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not be up to the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three mattress heights and is made of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed hardware than other options on this list, though, and some users found it more complicated to assemble than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last until toddlerhood. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that convert 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 transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could occupy more square footage of your nursery than the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's easy to set up and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which means you can start your child in a low spot that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib to be a part of an elegant nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are easy to set up or convert, and some include a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed, or full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made from organic, non-toxic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and is eco-friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when selecting a crib. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Verify that recommended cribs complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are either aligned with the ends of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses a danger of strangulation.
Additionally ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, choose one that has a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and could be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats could be too wide, or they may be missing hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it may 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 Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.