Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and durable. Make sure you choose a solid wood crib and slat spacing under 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 of sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
- Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to find one that is sturdy enough. Look for cribs that meet safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, think about avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough spots that could cause harm to your child.
Choose a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together, as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides because these can be harmful to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It is also beneficial to select a crib with a minimal footprint, as it will reduce the space in your nursery and limit dust accumulation.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy baby crib as it meets most of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could get caught on clothing or toys. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. It's only downside is that it does not include a toddler rail, or as many slats like other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's a bit more expensive than other cribs on this list, but it has a sleek design and meets nearly all of our requirements, including being incredibly easy to put together. It only has three mattress levels which is less than some other cribs. However, if you plan to use the crib for a long time it could be better suited to your requirements.
- Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not require a full day of assembly unlike larger cribs. They're ready to use out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to assemble using the included tools. Some have a built in toddler bed conversion kit that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you must always check that the crib is firmly assembled with no gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Pay attention to the quality and quantity of hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure they're tightened securely, but don't over-tighten them, which could lead to broken threads or wood cracks. Choose a solid wood crib as it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, search for one that comes with easy and simple instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list with the essential tools, like washers and screws.
Size is also important. A crib must be big enough to accommodate your child, but not too big that it will not fit through a standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs, as older cribs might not meet the latest 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 made from 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.
- Convertible
In contrast to car seats and strollers cribs don't come with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't take into consideration other factors such as aesthetics, price, and how long the crib will last. Consider a convertible crib if want a crib that lasts long into the age of toddlerhood. This will help save space and money, and make it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
While most cribs which transform into full-size beds are a last resort, you simply remove the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be turned 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 or dressers for a seamless look.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it'll last for years. Parent testers say it's sturdy and easy to assemble, even for those who don't have the skills. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights that means you can start your child in a low spot that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, and is perfect for parents who want an option that looks stylish in a grand nursery. It is also easy to assemble, 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 could be a problem for certain.
- Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child while promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as harmful substances such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed from solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have an elegant design. They are typically easy to build and convert, and a few come with a changing tray or dresser attached that can save space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs, which are designed to grow with your child changing into a daybed, toddler bed or a full-size bed. Some cribs can come with additional features such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be sturdy and durable to withstand the rigors of daily use and clean. The best eco-friendly cribs are made of non-toxic, organic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
An excellent example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made from sustainable birchwood, and it is free of harmful finishes or components. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to clean and green.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which has an elegant design and top-quality construction for a low cost. Its sturdy slats are made of high-quality hardwood, and www.cots4tots.Co.uk its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also comes with an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies with reflux.
- Safety First
When you are choosing a crib safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure that it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: Less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's about the width of a soda container) and no cutouts with decorative designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, since they pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Choose a baby monitor that has a clear line-of-sight so it does not hinder your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your baby and securely connected. Also, do not keep pillows, blankets, or positioners in the crib. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks and could be kicked or pulled down by your child.
Avoid using old cribs, as they could have outdated features that can cause injuries. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, the slats might be too wide or it might be lacking hardware. Old cribs can also have lead-based paint, or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but may be too much to those who prefer a minimal style. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1 have a similar style but less bells and whistles.