Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable 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 is solid enough. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts, or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy crib, as it is a good fit for 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 it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include an infant rail and doesn't have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's a bit more expensive than the other options on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It also only has three mattress height levels, which is lower than other cribs. However, it's a good choice if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a few years and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to assemble. In fact, most are ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you should always ensure that the crib is firmly constructed with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires an assembly, choose one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
In addition to the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it will not fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious about using cribs that are older, because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other options on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like aesthetics, cost and the length of time the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will reduce your costs and space and will make it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that transform into full-size beds are considered an afterthought and you have to remove the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be turned into bed frames. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and is a great addition to any nursery. You can also bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, and is perfect for parents looking for an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. Best cot for newborn is also simple to assemble, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child, while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have simple designs. They are usually easy to build and convert, and some come with dressers or changing tables attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. They could also include additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is an excellent choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and is eco-friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also has an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with firmly-fitted and sturdy hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are either aligned with the end panels of the crib or extremely tall. Anything in between is the possibility of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your baby and securely attached. Don't keep any pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks and may be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it may be too much for people who want a minimal look. cheap cot beds , like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.