Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.
Choose solid frames and stay clear of slats that are too close together as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Also, look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a 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 criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can get in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels like other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the 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 fewer than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need the time of a whole day to put together, unlike some larger cribs. Most are ready to use right from the box, and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is securely built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them securely but not excessively because this could cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list with the necessary items, such as washers and screws.
Besides the design, size is a different consideration. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child but not so big that it will not pass through a standard opening. Be cribs beds of cribs that are older, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than the other options on this list however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to put together than necessary due to the mislabeled components and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs aren't equipped with many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last until the age of 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 a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
This crib is more robust than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust that means you can begin your baby in a low, comfortable position that is easy for caregivers to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is perfect for parents who want an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are made of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even have an adjustable dresser or changing tray built-in. This can save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to grow with your child changing into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed 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 green.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with 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 is equipped with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and well-fitting fittings. Verify that it complies 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 the risk of strangulation.
Also ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they could pose choking and suffocation hazards. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your baby's reach and securely attached. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older because they may have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats may be too wide, or they may be lacking hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety 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 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.