Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It includes four mattress heights and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's solid enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these could pose a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib that has a small footprint, as it will save space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have an infant rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It has only three mattress levels, which is fewer than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for several years it could be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is securely assembled without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to break or strip the threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of required tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child but not so large that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Be cautious about using cribs that are older as they might not meet 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 from durable and Recommended Cribs sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options that are on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that can last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into an adult-sized best cot bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you would like a crib that will last until the age of toddlerhood. This will save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
This crib is more robust than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for a long time. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby cot online in a low position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is perfect for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase them separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They provide a safe, comfortable sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most are designed to minimize the impact on the environment. They are typically easy to assemble and convert, and some have dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Whatever their capabilities to convert, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and frequent cleaning. The best crib for newborn eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
An excellent example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and also eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib sets to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Be sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure it is in line with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or are very tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure any cords are out of your child's reach and are securely connected. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can lead to the risk of suffocation or choke and may be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs as they may have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in great condition, the slats could be too wide, or they might be lacking hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimal look. 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.