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 most favored. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots which could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause the child to suffocate. Also, search 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 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 with a minimal footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a sturdy crib, as it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. The only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than some of the other cribs on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It also only has three mattress heights, which is less than other cribs, but it might be preferable if you're planning to have your baby use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs the majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. They are ready to use straight out of the box, and take approximately 30 minutes to put together using the tools provided. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later on.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely but don't over tighten them, which could lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Choose solid wood cribs as it is considered to be more secure than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers include an instructional video that can be helpful for those who may not be familiar with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of needed supplies, like washers and screws.
In addition to design, size is an additional consideration. A crib should be big enough for your child but not so big that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. 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 great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is constructed of durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed 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
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects such as aesthetics, price, and how long the crib will last. If you're looking for a crib which will last through the age of three and beyond, think about getting one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
The majority of cribs that convert into full-size beds are an afterthought they can be removed from the side and replace it by a longer rail, Oeuf has created a chic crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and is a great addition to any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
This crib is more substantial than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for years. It's simple to put together and sturdy even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights that means you can start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional style than the other two on this list, and is great for parents looking for a crib that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to purchase the rails separately. most recommended cribs is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be an issue 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 child, while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials, and feature simple designs. recommended cribs are simple to put together or convert, and some come with a dresser or a changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be transformed into an infant bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from non-toxic, organic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it does not contain harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and is eco-friendly.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has timeless design and top-quality construction at 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 you are choosing a crib safety should be your top priority. Be sure that the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, make sure it meets the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda can), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. 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 attached. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These can pose choking and suffocation risks, and can be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide, or they could be missing hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous bolts and screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features for a reasonable price, but it might be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 offer a similar design but less bells & whistles.