Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is both safe and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend the majority of the 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. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.
Choose solid frames, and avoid slats that are too close as they could pose a danger of death from suffocation. Also, look for a crib that doesn't have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose a hazard to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, since it will save space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a sturdy crib, as it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include an infant rail and does not have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's a bit more costly than other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our requirements, including being super-easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need an entire day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use right out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to assemble with the included tools. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is securely assembled with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them properly but not too much because this could cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial that can be helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide should include a list of tools, including washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is an additional consideration. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it will not pass through a standard opening. Be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs might not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic choice for those who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than other options on this list however, some users noted that it was more difficult to put together than needed due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that can last through 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 through the age of three 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, making it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
While most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
The crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could take up 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 assemble and durable even for parents who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position, which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is ideal for parents looking for an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even include a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. They must be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated use and clean. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and is green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with timeless design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secured hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are aligned with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. cots to tots in between poses a danger of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks and could be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats that are not wide or lack hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it could be too expensive for those who want a minimal look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.