Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is sturdy and safe. You should look for sturdy construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong because babies will spend the majority of the time in it. Look for cribs which meet the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Also, search for a crib that doesn't include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, as these features can be a hazard to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Pick a crib with a small footprint to minimize space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib as it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawback 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 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 mattress levels which is less than other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for several years it might be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
In contrast to larger cribs most modern mini cribs do not require a whole day to put together. Most are ready to use right out of the box and only take 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
Of course, you must ensure that the crib is securely assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could snag your baby. Also, be aware of the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Be sure to tighten them securely but not too much because this could cause the wood to crack or tear the threads. Choose a solid wood crib as it is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that needs assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list with the necessary items, such as screws and washers.
In addition to design, size is another consideration. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it can't be accessed through the 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 choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It is made from sturdy and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress options. It is more exposed to the elements than some of the other options on this list, however, some users found it more complicated to assemble than necessary because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. cots and tots
If you're looking for a crib that will last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider an adjustable crib if you want a crib to last long into toddlerhood. This will save space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your baby grows.
Most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail -- Oeuf has designed a stylish high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
The crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests, and it may use up more square footage of your nursery than some of the other cribs, but it's a beautiful piece that will stand the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who don't have the skills. It also comes with three different mattress heights you can adjust which means you can start your child in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and then raise as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is great for parents looking for an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler rails that convert, eliminating the need to shop for the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could 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 encouraging sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have a minimalist design. They are simple to put together or convert, and some have a dresser or a changing tray attached. This can reduce space.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child and convert to a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable enough to stand up to regular use and regular cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
Bloom Alma crib is a great example of a eco-friendly crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood and does not contain harmful components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a good choice for parents who want an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats are constructed 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 attached to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when selecting a crib. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with well-fitting and secure hardware. Also, ensure it complies with the current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's about the width of a soda can) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything in between poses a strangulation risk.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose dangers of choking or even 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 that all cords are out of reach of your child and are securely anchored. Don't keep any pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These items could pose suffocation and choking risks and could be thrown off by your child or pushed down by older siblings.
Avoid using old cribs because they may have outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats that are not wide or may be missing hardware. Also, old cribs could contain lead-based paint or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it might be too much for people who want a minimal look. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Carter's 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.