Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress sizes and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy since a baby will spend the majority of the time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, you should look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these features can be dangerous for your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it will make room in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in all rooms. The only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is simple to put together. It only has three mattress levels which is less than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for a longer period of time it might be more suitable for your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to assemble. They are usually ready to use straight from the box, and only take 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit, which eliminates the cost and hassle of purchasing 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 catch a baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them securely but not excessively as this can cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that needs assembly, look for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide an instructional video for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will also include a list of required tools, including washers and screws.
Size is also important. A crib should be large enough for your child, but not too big that it can't fit through an opening of a standard size. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
Full Statement in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than the other options on this list, though, and some users found it more difficult to set up than necessary because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last well into toddlerhood. This will save space and money, and make it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
While most 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-made crib that transforms into an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more square footage of your nursery than the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand up to the test of time. It's simple to put together and durable even for parents who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your child in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
great crib has more of a traditional style than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents who want an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are present in other cribs, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate, MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are designed to minimize the environmental impact. They are usually easy to assemble and convert, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-sized bed. They may also have additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert they must be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed of sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an eco-friendly crib with an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. Its sturdy slats, made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low levels of chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed, with firmly fitted and secure hardware. Also, make sure it is in line with 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) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between can pose a strangulation risk.
Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib because they can be choking or suffocation hazards. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your child and securely connected. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or positioners in the crib. These can cause the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old, as they could have outdated features that can lead to injuries. Even if the crib is in great condition, the slats may be too wide or it could be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it may be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.