Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing that is less than 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four mattress height settings and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is essential that the crib is built to last because babies will spend most of their time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations set 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 parts or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.
Look for a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close together as they could pose a risk of death from suffocation. Also, look for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these features can be a hazard to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they 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 smaller footprints to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that might get stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in a variety of rooms. It's only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats as the other cribs listed in this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other options on this list, but it has a sleek design and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being extremely easy to assemble. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than other cribs. However, it's a good choice if you're planning to have your baby 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 put together. They're usually ready for use straight out of the package, and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some even come with an integrated toddler bed conversion kit which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Be sure to pay attention to the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could result in broken threads or wood cracks. Find solid wood cribs as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs with easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who aren't used to working with furniture pieces. A good manual should include a list of supplies, like washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is another factor to consider. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not too big that it won't fit through a standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs may not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great option for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices that are on the list. Some customers also complained that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last through the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that converts into a daybed or a full-size bed. If you're looking for a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-sized bed or daybed. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child develops.
While most cribs which convert into full-size beds are considered an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it with an extended rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be turned into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimalist and looks great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers for a seamless look.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests, and it could occupy more space in your nursery than the less expensive options, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. It's simple to put together and sturdy even for parents who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position, which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents looking for a crib that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which can be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are 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 contain harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs tend to be constructed of solid wood, renewable and sustainable materials, and feature a minimalist design. They are easy to set up, convert and some even include a dresser or changing tray that is attached. This can help save space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. Whatever their conversion capabilities, they should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
Bloom Alma crib is a excellent example of an eco-friendly crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that offers an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which has a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and secured hardware. Also, make sure it is in line with 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) and no cutouts with decorative designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything in between poses an opportunity for strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. If you're considering using a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that is clear of sight that doesn't interfere with your view. Also, ensure that all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets, or positioning devices in the crib. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown away by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Also, do not use tots and cots because they could have construction elements that are outdated and can cause injuries. Even if a crib appears in good condition, the slats could be too wide or could be lacking hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimal look. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.