Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is strong because a baby will spend the majority of their time in it. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas that could cause harm to your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause the child to suffocate. Also, you should look for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these features can be an hazard for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Instead, choose a crib that has been certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, as it will make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and sturdy 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 be snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than the other cribs, but it fulfills all our criteria and is simple to put together. It only has three levels of mattress which is less than some other cribs. If you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time, it may be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
In best cot bed to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to put together. They are usually ready to 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 eliminates the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later on.
Always ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could catch the baby. Also, be attentive to the quality of the hardware, specifically screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them properly, but not too much, as this can cause the wood to crack or tear threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer a video tutorial for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it can't pass through a standard opening. Be wary of 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 who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three mattress heights and is made of durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than some of the other options on this list though, and some users noted that it was more difficult to set up than needed because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with many "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and how long the crib lasts. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last well into the age of toddlerhood. This will reduce your costs as well as space, making it easier to switch out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs that transform into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a larger rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and looks great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
The crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It may use up more square footage of your nursery than some of the other cribs However, it's a gorgeous piece that can stand the test of time. It's simple to put together and sturdy even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust, which allows you to start your baby in a low, comfortable position which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, and is ideal for parents who want an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also easy to assemble, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. The only drawback is that it has some exposed hardware, which may be a problem for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win scenario, providing a safe sleep environment for your baby while encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials and have an elegant design. They are easy to set up, convert and some even come with a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can help save space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand frequent use and clean. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of organic and non-toxic materials. They also are low-VOC in their finish.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib with a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats, made from 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 even slope for infants with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the first priority when choosing a crib. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built, with firmly fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, make sure it meets 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 on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys away from the crib since they can be choking or dangers of suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely anchored. Don't place any blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Avoid using old cribs because they may have outdated features that could cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it may have slats that are not wide or be missing some hardware. Additionally, old cribs may contain lead-based paint or have loose and dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.