Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and sturdy. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our favorites. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made from renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in the crib, so it's important to find one that is sturdy enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which focus on structural integrity. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your child.
Look for a solid frame and stay clear of slats that are too close as this can pose a risk of being suffocated. Also, look for a crib that doesn't feature decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these features can be an hazard for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can 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 tiny footprint to help save space and reduce dust build-up in your nursery.
Baby Crib is a great choice for a solid crib, since it is a good fit for the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in most rooms. Read Full Report 's only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats like other cribs in this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than some of the other options on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three levels of mattress which is less than some other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a long time it might be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They're usually ready for use right from the box, and take only 30 minutes to put together with the tools included. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch babies. Be aware of the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much as this can cause the wood to crack or strip the threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers include an instructional video, which is helpful for those who might not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide will include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not too big that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not meet 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 is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to metal hardware than other choices on the market. A few users also mentioned that the instructions and the incorrectly labeled pieces made it difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that can last through toddlerhood and beyond, consider one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're looking for a crib which can last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought - you simply remove the side and replace it with a wider rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek high-quality crib that can transform into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a seamless design.
The crib is much more sturdy than the other cribs we tested in our tests. It might take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for a long time. It's easy to set up and durable, even for parents who don't have the skills. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your child in a low position, which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This crib is more of a traditional style than the other two on this list, which is great for parents looking for a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which might be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs create the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable practices for the environment. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that can be found in other cribs, as well as toxic substances like PVC, phthalate, MDF, 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 and convert, and some include a dresser or a changing tray built-in. This can reduce space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They must be durable and sturdy to withstand the rigors of daily usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic and non-toxic materials. They also come with a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood and has no toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety requirements. It is a great choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to clean and also green.
Namesake is another option, with a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. 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 attached to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes less than 2.375 inches between the slats; no decorative cutouts in the headboard or the footboard, and corner posts that are either flush with the end panels of the crib or very tall. Anything in between is the possibility of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one that has a clear line of sight, so it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your child's reach and are securely attached. Don't keep any cushions, blankets or other positioning devices in the crib. These can pose dangers of suffocation and choke and could be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs as they may have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats could be too wide or could be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint, or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, however it may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist look. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.