Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. click here for more info comes with a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is strong because babies 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 concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your little one.
Avoid cribs with slats too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, since these options could be harmful to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby as it meets most of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing and looks beautiful in a variety of rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't include a toddler rail, and it doesn't have as many slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more expensive than the other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It also has only three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs, but it's a good choice when you're planning to let your child use the crib for a few years and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you should ensure that the crib is securely built with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them properly but not excessively, as this can cause the wood to crack or strip threads. Choose a solid wood crib as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide videos for those who are not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list of supplies, like screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not so big that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It has three mattress heights and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to metal hardware than the other options that are on the list. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and incorrectly labeled pieces made it more difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib that lasts until toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed feel like an afterthought--you simply take off the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish, quality-made crib that transforms into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimalist, stylish, and looks nice in almost every nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser for a more seamless appearance.
The crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it may use up more square footage of your nursery than some of the less expensive options however, it's a stunning piece that can stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together even for those who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights which means you can start your baby off in a low spot which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's a great choice for parents looking for a crib that can fit in a formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase them separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer an ideal solution for both parents and children, offering a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature an elegant design. They are generally simple to put together and convert, and some include dressers or changing tables attached that can save space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. They might also come with additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to withstand frequent use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats made from high-quality hardwood are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secured hardware. Also, ensure it is in line 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 bottle), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or are very tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that is in a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of the reach of your child and securely connected. Do not place blankets, pillows or even positioners in the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and 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 injury. Even if the crib appears in good condition, it may 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 has a wide range of features at a great price, but it might 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 Colby 4-in-1, sport similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.