Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You want a crib that's sturdy and safe. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
One of our top choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress height settings and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail that is included.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, so it's important to choose a crib that's strong enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on structural integrity. Avoid cribs that have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your child.
Find solid frames and avoid slats which are too close together as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Also, you should look for a crib that does not include decorative cut-outs, or drop sides, since these can pose dangerous for your child.
Also, stay clear of finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Instead, choose cribs that are certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a tiny footprint to help minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for babies as it meets most of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing, and it looks great in all rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't come with an infant rail and does not have the same amount of slats as some other cribs on this list.
Another recommended crib is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other cribs, but it meets all of our criteria and is simple to put together. It has just three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs. However, it might be preferable in the event that you plan to let your child use the crib for a while and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together unlike larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight out of the package, and only take 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves the cost of buying separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to the baby. Be sure to check the quality and quantity of hardware such as screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them securely but not too much, as this can cause the wood to break or strip threads. Choose solid wood cribs as it is thought to be more secure than metal.
Find cribs with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers include a video tutorial, which is helpful for those who might not be used to working with furniture parts. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like screws and washers.
Size is also important. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not too big that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of cribs that are older because they may not be in compliance with the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a sleek and modern crib. It has three different mattress heights and is made of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list though, and some users found it more complicated to assemble than needed because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're seeking a crib that will last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that converts into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib to last well into toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, as well as make it easier to change 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 an actual bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
The crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square footage of your nursery than some of the less expensive options, but it's a beautiful piece that can stand the test of time. It's simple to put together and sturdy even for parents who don't have the skills. It also has three adjustable mattress heights, which allows you to start your baby in a low, comfortable position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they grow older.
Full Statement has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is ideal for parents who want a crib that will look elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to put together and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails, which eliminates the need to buy those separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win for everyone. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child and promote sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs contain harmful emissions and chemicals, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are usually made from solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to reduce the impact on the environment. They are generally easy to build and change, and some include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs that can be converted into a toddler bed or full-size bed. Some cribs may have extra features such as a built in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand the rigors of daily use and clean. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with a low-VOC coating.
A great example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has a sleek, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another option is the Namesake crib, which comes with a timeless style and high-quality construction for a low 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 connected to the side to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is built well and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Verify that it complies with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes having less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are either in line with the ends of the crib or extremely tall. Anything that is in between poses the possibility of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib as they can pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you're planning to use a baby monitor, make sure you choose one that has a clear line of sight, so it doesn't block your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of reach of your baby and securely connected. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets or baby cribs with positioners. These items can cause dangers of suffocation and choke and may be pushed down or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using older cribs because they could have outdated construction features that could result in injuries. Even if the crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide, or they might be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it may be too much for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.