Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is both safe and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our top picks is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress sizes and is made out of renewable and sustainable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes a toddler rail included.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations formulated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Avoid cribs with loose components or rough surfaces that could cause harm to your child.
Choose a solid frame and avoid slats which are too close together as this can pose a risk of suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts, or drop-sides as these features may be harmful to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also helpful to choose the crib with the smallest footprint, since it will reduce the space in your nursery and reduce dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great option for a sturdy and solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our requirements. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that can be in the way of toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in the majority of rooms. The only drawback is that it does not include a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more costly than the other cribs on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than some other cribs. If you plan to use the crib for several years, it may be better suited to your requirements.
2. Easy to Assemble
Many modern mini cribs do not require the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They are ready to use out from the box, and require just about 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. 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 properly assembled and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could be a danger to babies. Also, be attentive to the quality of hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which could result in stripped threads or cracking wood. Find a solid wood crib as it is thought to be safer than metal.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that requires assembly, look for one with simple and straightforward instructions. Some manufacturers offer an instructional video for those not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of needed tools, including screws and washers.
Size is also crucial. A crib should be large enough for your child but not so large that it cannot fit through an opening of a standard size. Also, 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 choice for those who are looking for a modern and sleek crib. It comes with three mattress heights and is made of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It's got more exposed hardware than the other options on this list, however, some users found it more difficult to put together than they needed to due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib that will last until the age of toddlers and beyond, look into one that can be converted into a full-size bed or daybed. Consider a convertible crib if would like a crib that will last long into toddlerhood. This will free up space and money, making it easier to replace the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs that can be converted into a full-size bed seem like a gimmick--you just take off the side and replace it with a wider rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and is a great addition to any nursery. Plus, you can bundle it with the trundle bed that matches and dresser to create a more seamless look.
This crib is more substantial than other cribs in our tests. It could take up more space in your nursery, but it's going to last for years. The parents who tested it say it's durable and easy to put together, even for those who don't have the skills. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This allows you to start your baby in a seated position which is simple for caregivers to handle and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This convertible crib has more of a traditional design than the other two cribs on this list, which is ideal for parents who want an option that looks nice in a stately nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. It does have some exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best of both worlds, providing an environment that is safe for your baby while promoting sustainable practices for the environment. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions, as well as toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable 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 save space.
Some brands offer eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or a full-sized bed. most recommended cribs could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table or storage compartments. Regardless of their conversion capabilities they must be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and come with a low-VOC finish.
A great example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. This model is made of sustainable birchwood, and is free of toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is an excellent choice for parents looking for a crib with a sleek design that is easy to maintain and eco-friendly.
Namesake is another option, offering an elegant design and top-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats made of high-quality hardwood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low chemical emissions. The crib comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When choosing a crib, security should be the primary priority. Be sure that the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, with solid hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, ensure that it is in line with current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between slats (that's approximately the size of a soda bottle), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or extremely tall. Anything between is an opportunity for strangulation.
Likewise ensure that all toys are kept out of the crib as they could pose choking and risk of suffocation. If you want to use baby monitors, select one with a clear line of sight, so it doesn't interfere with your view. Also, make sure all cords are not within reach of your child and are securely attached. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These items can pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Beware of cribs that are older, as they could have outdated features that could cause injury. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it could have slats which are too wide or lack hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose and hazardous bolts or screws.
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 4-in 1 have a similar look but with fewer bells and whistles.