Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It has four different mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in the crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that is sturdy enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your baby.
Find a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together as this could increase the danger of death from suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides since these options could be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and does not have as many slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more costly than other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress which is less than some other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a long time, it may be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use out from the box, and require around 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is securely assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Also, be aware of the quality of hardware, especially screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly but not too much because this could cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Choose a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video which can be useful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture parts. A good guide will also include a list of required tools, including screws and washers.
The size of the crib is also important. Full Statement must be large enough for your child but not so large that it will not fit 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 choice for those who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. good cribs got more exposed hardware than other choices on this list, however, some users noted that it was more difficult to set up than necessary due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts well into the age of toddlerhood. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
Most cribs that can be converted into a bed of a larger size feel 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 an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. It's easy to assemble and sturdy, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents looking for a crib to fit in a formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your baby while promoting 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 usually made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are designed to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached. This can reduce space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that has modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at 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 also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies who have reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Also, make sure it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda can) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they can pose choking and suffocation hazards. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of reach of your child and securely connected. Also, do not keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These items could pose dangers of choking and suffocation, and can be kicked off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if the crib is in good condition, it could have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a low price, but it could be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.