Top 5 Recommended Cribs
You need a crib that is both safe and durable. Look for solid construction and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our favorite choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It comes with four different mattress heights and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand pinewood. It includes a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
A baby spends most of their time in their crib, which is why it's crucial to choose a crib that's solid enough. 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 are focused on structural integrity. Avoid cribs with loose parts or rough surfaces which could hurt your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, as this could cause suffocation. Choose a crib with no decorative cutouts or drop-sides, as these features may be dangerous to your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) as they can affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Instead, select a crib that is certified with Greenguard Gold and uses non-toxic materials. Select a crib with a smaller footprints to minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent choice for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets all of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that might get snagged on clothing or toys, and it looks great in most rooms. The only downside is that it does not have a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs listed in this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we recommend. It's more expensive than other cribs on this list, however it's sleek and stylish and meets nearly all of our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It has only three levels of mattress which is less than other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a longer period of time it could be better suited to your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, most modern mini cribs do not require an entire day to assemble. They are ready to use straight out of the box, taking approximately 30 minutes to assemble with the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
It is essential to ensure that the crib is assembled properly and that there are no gaps or rough surfaces that could snag the baby. Also, pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which can cause stripped threads or cracking wood. Look for a solid wood crib as it is considered to be safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide will include a list of required tools, including screws and washers.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib must be large enough for your child, but not too big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Be wary of cribs that are older, as they might not meet the current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those who want a sleek, modern crib. It is constructed from sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three mattress options. It is more exposed to the elements than the other choices on this list, however, some users noted that it was more difficult to set up than necessary due to mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. Convertible
Unlike strollers and car seats cribs don't come with many "features." However, that doesn't mean parents shouldn't consider other factors such as aesthetics, price and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that can last until toddlerhood and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
Although most cribs that transform into full-size beds are a last resort they can be removed from the side and replace it by an extended rail. Oeuf has designed a stylish crib that can be converted into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and can be incorporated into almost every nursery. You can also bundle it with matching trundle beds or dressers to create a cohesive look.
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 sturdy, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a seated position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib has more of a traditional look than the other two on this list, and is great for parents who want an option that looks elegant in a formal nursery. It's also easy to set up and comes with a set of toddler-sized rails that convert, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for certain people.
4. cots 4 tots -Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They provide a safe sleeping environment for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful emissions and chemicals that are found in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are typically made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally easy to assemble and convert, and some have a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands offer eco-friendly cribs that are designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to a toddler bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like an integrated changing table or storage compartments. No matter what their ability to convert they must be strong and durable to withstand regular use and frequent cleaning. The best eco-friendly baby cribs are made of organic materials that are non-toxic with low-VOC coating.
A great example of a green crib 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 for low chemical emissions and is compliant with all safety standards. It is a great option for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and is green.
Namesake is another option, offering timeless design and high-quality construction for a reasonable price. The sturdy slats are constructed of high-quality wood, and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib is equipped with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing the right crib. Make sure that the crib is sturdy and well-built with firmly-fitted and secure hardware. Also, ensure that it complies with 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 bottle) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs on the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are flush with the end panels or very tall--anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they pose choking or suffocation risks. Choose a baby monitor with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't hinder your view. Also, make sure that any cords are not within your child's reach and are securely connected. Finally, never keep pillows, blankets, or baby cribs with positioners. These items can cause choking and suffocation risks, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old as they could be equipped with outdated features that could cause injury. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide or it might be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur offers a lot of features at a low price, but it may be too much for people who prefer a minimalist design. 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.