Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It comes with four different mattress heights and is constructed of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is built to last since a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Find cribs that comply with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, cots 4 tots should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Choose a solid frame, and avoid slats that are too close together, as this could increase the danger of suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts, or drop-sides since these options could be harmful to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as these could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose a crib with a minimal footprint, since it can save space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It's easy to clean, doesn't have any exposed hardware that could be caught on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't include a toddler rail, or as many slats as the other cribs in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list but it is a perfect fit for our requirements and is simple to put together. It also has only three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs, however it's a good choice in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a while and want it to last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs do not require an entire day of assembly, unlike some larger cribs. They are ready to use out of the box, and take around 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some even have a built-in toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is firmly assembled without gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. Be sure to be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can lead to stripped threads or cracking wood. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is thought to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have easy and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video, which is helpful for those who may not be used to working with furniture parts. A good manual will include a list with the necessary supplies, such as washers and screws.
Beyond design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough for your child, but not so large that it cannot pass through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs might not meet current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed of durable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It has more exposed metal hardware than other options that are on the list. Some users also noted that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to put together.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if you want a crib to last long into toddlerhood. This will help you save money as well as space, making it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are a last resort and you have to remove the side and replace it with a longer rail, Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be converted into bed frames. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and is a great addition to any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than others in our tests, and it could take up more space in your nursery than the less expensive options, but it's a beautiful piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and sturdy, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a low position which is easy for parents to manage 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, and is great for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, which eliminates the need to buy the rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be an issue for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing a safe sleep environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, and also toxic substances like PVC, phthalate MDF and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and many are minimalist in design to minimize the impact on the environment. They are typically easy to assemble and convert, and some come with a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs changing into a toddler bed, daybed, or full-size bed. Some cribs might have additional features, such as an integrated changing tables or storage compartments. Regardless of their ability to convert they should be strong and durable to withstand regular use and regular cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for children are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coatings.
A great example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. It is constructed of sustainable birchwood, and it is free of toxic finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a good choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib with an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option that offers an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be connected to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when selecting the right crib. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Also, make sure it meets the 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 container), no decorative cutout designs in the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. If cots 4 tots planning to use baby monitors, select one with a clear line of sight that does not block your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your child and securely attached. Never place pillows, blankets, or positioners inside the crib. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown away by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old, as they could have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib appears in good condition, the slats may be too wide or could be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous bolts or screws.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a great price, but it may be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.