Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is sturdy and safe. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. affordable cots comes with four mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend the majority of the time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Also, search for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these features can be a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Instead, opt for cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib as it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could be snagged on clothing or toys and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats as the other cribs in this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it meets all of our criteria and is easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs, however it's a good choice when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use right out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to assemble with the tools provided. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is firmly constructed with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure that they are securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could lead to broken threads or wood cracks. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video, which is helpful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of items, such as washers and screws.
Size is also important. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child, but not so large that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be wary of cribs older than a year, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. best crib got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list, however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to put together than needed due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib that lasts well into the age of toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just take the side off and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is a little more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more square feet of your nursery than some of the other cribs however, it's a stunning piece that will stand the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your baby in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents looking for a crib that can fit in the formal nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which might be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe and secure sleeping environment for your baby while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature simple designs. They are generally simple to put together and change, and some have an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a good choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has timeless design and top-quality construction for a low cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the crib. Make sure the crib is built well and sturdy, with solid hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. 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 the footboard and corner posts that are either in line with the panels at the end of the crib, or very tall. Anything in between poses a possibility of strangulation.
Likewise ensure that all toys are kept away from the crib since they can be choking or risk of suffocation. If pop over to these guys planning to use baby monitors, select one with a clear line of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your child and securely anchored. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or positioners in the crib. These items can cause the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Beware of cribs that are older because they may have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if a crib appears in good condition, the slats might be too wide or it may be lacking hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or unsafe bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the Carter's By DaVinci Collby 4-in 1 have a similar style but with fewer bells and whistles.