Recommended Cribs Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our favorite picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress height settings and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend a lot 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 focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough areas which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs with slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Also, search for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, since these can pose a hazard to your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) because they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. Choose a crib certified with Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select the crib with the smallest footprint, since it can make room in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy baby crib because it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could be caught on clothing or toys. It also looks fantastic in most rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have a toddler rail, and doesn't have as many slat levels as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to put together. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs, however it might be preferable when you're planning to let your baby use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require a full day to assemble. They are ready to use straight out from the box, and require approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the tools provided. Some even come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you the expense and hassle of buying separate pieces later.
Of course, you must always ensure that the crib is firmly built with no gaps or rough spots that could hurt your baby. You should also be attentive to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely however, don't over-tighten them, which could result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Choose solid wood cribs as it is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're looking at a crib that requires an assembly, look for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers include an instructional video that can be helpful for those who might not be used to working with furniture components. A good manual will include a list of essential tools, like washers and screws.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough to accommodate your child but not so big that it will not pass through a standard opening. Be cautious when using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than other options on this list however, and some customers have complained that it was more difficult to set up than they needed to due to the mislabeled components and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with a lot of "features." However it doesn't mean that parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors like design, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. If you're seeking a crib that will last into toddlerhood and beyond, consider buying one that can convert into a full-size bed or daybed. This will save you money as well as space, making it easier to change the mattress as your child develops.
Most cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like a gimmick--you just remove the side and replace it with a larger rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, minimal, and can be incorporated into almost any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle cot beds for sale or dressers to create a seamless design.
The crib is larger than the 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 stunning piece that can stand the test of time. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together even for those who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your baby in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they get older.
This crib is more of a traditional look than the other two cribs on this list, which is perfect for parents who want a crib that will look stylish in a grand nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to buy these separately. The only downside is that it has some exposed hardware, which could be a problem for certain.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful chemicals and emissions, and harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually constructed from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and many have a minimal design to minimize the environmental impact. They are easy to assemble and convert, and some have a dresser or a changing tray built-in. This can reduce space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. They might also come with additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand frequent use and clean. The best cot beds eco-friendly baby cribs are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coating.
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 components. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents who want a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and also eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable cost. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib has an optional reflux foot that can be connected to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, security should be the primary priority. Make sure that the crib is strong and well-constructed with well-fitting and secure hardware. Check that it meets the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or the footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels of the crib, or very tall. Anything that is in between poses the risk of strangulation.
Additionally, keep all toys out of the crib because they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you're considering using baby cots online monitors, select one that is clear of sight, so it does not block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your baby's reach and are securely attached. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets, or cheap baby cots cribs with positioners. These items can pose suffocation and choking risks and can be kicked off by your baby or pulled down by older siblings.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that can cause injury. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide or it might be lacking hardware. In addition, cribs that are old may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimalist style. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1 have similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.