Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and durable. You should look for sturdy 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 different mattress sizes 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 built to last since a baby will spend a lot of the time in it. Find cribs that comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Find a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close together as this could increase the risk of suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, because these can be dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for babies because it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress height levels which is lower than other cribs. However, it might be preferable in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to assemble. They are ready to use out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is properly built with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them properly but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs that are older as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It is made from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list however, some users found it more complicated to assemble than they needed to because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that convert into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a longer rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it could occupy more square feet of your nursery than some of the smaller options however, it's a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and durable, even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents who are looking for a crib to fit into a formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, and also toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have simple designs. They are usually easy to build and convert, and some have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child, converting to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand repeated use and clean. The best eco-friendly cribs are made from organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood, and it is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib with an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with solid hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, make sure cot sale is in line with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Also ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they can be choking or suffocation hazards. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight, so it does not block your view. Also, make sure any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely connected. Do not place blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to choking and suffocation risks and could be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have outdated construction features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats which are too wide or may be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist 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.