Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It 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's important that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend most of their time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Also, search for a crib that does not feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these can pose dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, opt for a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in the majority of rooms. The only drawback is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than the other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs, however it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require an entire day to assemble. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and only take 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some even have an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
You should always make sure that the crib is assembled properly and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could snag the baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure you tighten them properly but not excessively because this could cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Also, look for a solid-wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video that can be helpful for those who might not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of needed items, such as screws and washers.
Beyond design, size is an additional consideration. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so big that it can't be accessed through an ordinary doorway. 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 choice for those who are looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three different mattress height settings and is made of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than other options on this list, however, and some customers noted that it was more difficult to put together than necessary due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib which will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about buying one that can convert into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into a full-size bed feel like a gimmick--you just take off the side and replace it with a longer rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into an actual bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and looks great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with a matching trundle bed and dresser to create a more seamless appearance.
This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests, and it may use up more square feet of your nursery than the smaller options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand up to the test of time. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to put together even for those who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib to fit in the formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy rails separately. The only downside is that it does have some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate, MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be made of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached, which can help save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also have a low-VOC finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option that offers timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. top ranked cribs should be the top priority when selecting the crib. Be sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure that it meets 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 container) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses an opportunity for strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that is clear of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure any cords are not within your baby's reach and securely connected. Finally, never keep cushions, blankets or other positioners in the crib. These can pose the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats which are too wide or lack hardware. Old cribs may also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it could be too much for those who want a simple 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.