Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend the majority of the time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, my sources should avoid older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your baby.
Look for solid frames and avoid slats which 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 may influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has smaller footprints to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets all of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's a bit more costly than some of the other cribs on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress that is less than other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for several years it could be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. In fact, most are ready to use out of the box, and take just about 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag the baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which could lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Look for a solid wood crib as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires an assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those who aren't familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good manual will include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so large that it can't fit through a standard opening. Be cautious when using cribs that are older as they may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list, though, and some users found it more difficult to set up than needed due to mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors like aesthetics, cost, and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that transform into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply take off the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and looks nice in almost any nursery. crib sets can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square feet of your nursery than the other cribs however, it's a stunning piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust, which means you can start your child in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib that can fit in the formal nursery. It is also easy to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many have a minimal design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are easy to assemble, convert and some even come with a dresser or a changing tray that is attached. This can help save space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. They might also come with additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand repeated use and cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of organic, non-toxic materials and are low-VOC in their finish.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and also environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, make sure it complies with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda can), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight so that it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely connected. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Beware of cribs that are older because they may have outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, it may have slats which are too wide or lack hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.
