Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is built to last because babies will spend most of his or her time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your baby.
Look for a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close together as they could pose a danger of death from suffocation. Find a crib that does not have decorative cutouts or drop-sides because these can be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a smaller footprints to save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a solid crib as it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress that is less than some other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a long time it could be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not need a full day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They are ready to use out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some even come with built-in toddler bed conversion kit which eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is firmly constructed with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. You should also be aware of the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely, but don't over-tighten them, which could cause stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers include a video tutorial that can be helpful for those who might not be familiar with furniture parts. A good manual should include a list of needed items, such as washers and screws.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious about using cribs older than a year, as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want an elegant, modern crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to the elements than other options on this list, though, and some users found it more complicated to assemble than necessary due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with many "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will free up space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be transformed into bed frames. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
The crib is much more sturdy than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't skilled. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby in a low position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are seeking a crib that will fit into an elegant nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which can be an issue for certain people.
4. great crib -Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and most have a minimal design to reduce the environmental impact. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some have a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child, converting to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their capabilities to convert they must be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
A great example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and also eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib safety should be the top priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and sturdy hardware. 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 flush with the ends of the crib or very tall. Anything in between poses a possibility of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose the risk of choking or suffocation. 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 are securely anchored. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets or positioning devices in the crib. These can cause dangers of choking and suffocation, and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs because they may have outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide or might be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimal style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1 have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.