Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby is likely to spend the majority of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your baby.
Find solid frames and avoid slats which are too close as this can pose a danger of being suffocated. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these could pose dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in the majority of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and doesn't have as many slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels, which is fewer than other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for several years it might be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs many modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to put together. They're usually ready for use straight out of the box and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from having to buy separate pieces.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could cause stripped threads or cracking wood. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list with the necessary tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it can't be accessed through a standard doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a fantastic option for parents who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last well into toddlerhood. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more 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's going to last for a long time. It's simple to put together and durable even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights that can be adjusted which allows you to start your baby off in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise it as they get older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list.
infant cot bed 's a great choice for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit into an elegant nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to shop for those separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are an ideal solution for everyone. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are present in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have an elegant design. They are usually simple to put together and convert, and a few have a changing tray or dresser attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. They might also come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made from organic and non-toxic materials. They also are low-VOC in their finish.
An excellent example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and has no harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers a timeless style and high-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats that are constructed from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Check that it meets 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 aligned with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is a danger of strangulation.
Likewise make sure that all toys are away from the crib since they could pose choking and dangers of suffocation. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight to ensure it does not interfere with your view. Also, make sure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets, or positioners inside the crib. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke, and can be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older
cribs as they may contain outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats which are too wide or lack hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimal design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 offer a similar design but without the bells and whistles.