Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. 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
It is essential that the crib is strong because a baby will spend a lot of their time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Find solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close together, as this could increase the risk of being suffocated. Also, look for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an infant rail and it doesn't have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is simple to put together. It only has three mattress levels which is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time it might be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs do not need an entire day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Also, pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly but not excessively because this could cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture parts. A good manual should include a list of items, such as screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so big that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be cautious about 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 those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed of durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It has more exposed hardware than the other options on this list however, and some customers found it more difficult to put together than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last well into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a cohesive look.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs we've tested tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. It's simple to put together and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to begin your baby in a low position, which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two on this list, and is great for parents looking for an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and 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 easy to set up and convert, and some have a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can reduce space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs 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 a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it has no harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and is eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard, and corner posts that are in line with the ends of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between is a danger of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys away from the crib since they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. If you're planning to use baby monitors, select one that is clear of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely anchored. Don't keep any pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using top rated cots as they may have construction elements that are outdated and could cause injuries. Even if a crib is in great condition, the slats might be too wide or it could be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it may be too expensive for those who want a simple design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar style but with fewer bells and whistles.