Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our top picks. It includes four mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also comes with a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend a lot of the time in it. Find cribs that 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. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be harmful to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it is a good fit for the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get caught on toys or clothing, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with a toddler rail, and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, however it's stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It has just three mattress heights, which is lower than other cribs, however it could be a better option if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to assemble. They're usually ready for use straight out of the package, and take only 30 minutes to assemble using the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which could result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is thought to be safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos that provide instruction that can be helpful for those who might not be used to working with furniture components. A good guide should include a list with the necessary tools, including screws and washers.
Beyond design, size is another consideration. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your child, but not so big that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious when using cribs older than a year, as they might 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 has three mattress height settings and is constructed from durable, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than the other choices on this list, however, some users found it more difficult to put together than needed due to the mislabeled components and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. If you're looking for a crib which will last into the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It may use up more square footage of your nursery than the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who aren't handy. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights that means you can begin your baby off in a low, comfortable position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise it as they grow older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents looking for a crib that can fit into the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to purchase the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs can be a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, as well as toxins like PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and most are minimalist in design to minimize the environmental impact. They are usually simple to put together and convert, and some come with dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child changing into a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features, such as a built in changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert they should be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made of non-toxic, organic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, with a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. related web site has 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 top priority when choosing the crib. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secured hardware. Also, make sure it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, since they pose choking or suffocation risks. Select a monitor for your baby with a clear line of sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and securely attached. Never place pillows, blankets, or positioners inside the crib. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in excellent condition, the slats could be too wide, or they might be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it might be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.