Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you buy a crib, you want it to be safe and sturdy. You should look for solid wood construction and slat spacing less than 2.4 inches wide.
One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It has four different mattress sizes and is made from sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. cot sales comes with a toddler's bed.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is sturdy because babies will spend the majority of their time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and concentrate on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas which could cause harm to your little one.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts, or drop-sides because these can be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they could influence your baby's breathing and sleeping. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has tiny footprint to help minimize space and reduce dust accumulation in your nursery.
DaVinci Kalani is an excellent option for a sturdy crib for your baby because it meets the majority of our requirements. It's easy to clean, doesn't include any exposed hardware that might get caught on toys or clothing and looks fantastic in most rooms. The only downside is that it doesn't have a toddler rail or as many slats as the other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib that we highly recommend. It's a bit more expensive than the other options on this list, however it's stylish and meets almost all our criteria, including being super-easy to assemble. It only has three mattress levels that 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 needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
A majority of modern mini cribs don't require the time of a whole day to put together unlike some of the larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to put together with the included tools. Some include a built-in toddler bed conversion kit, which saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
Of course, you should always check that the crib is firmly built without gaps or rough areas that could catch your baby. Also, be aware of the quality of the hardware, specifically bolts and screws. Be sure that they are securely tightened but don't over tighten them, which could result in broken threads or wood cracks. Find a solid wood crib as it is considered to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires assembly, search for one that has simple and easy instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those not used to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should include a list with the necessary supplies, like screws and washers.
Besides design, size is another aspect to consider. A crib should be big enough to accommodate your baby, but not so large that it will not fit through the standard doorway. 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 durable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than the other options on this list however, some users found it more complicated to assemble than needed because of 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 will last. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last until toddlerhood. This will help you save money and space and will make it easier to swap out the mattress as your child grows.
The majority of cribs that convert into a bed of a larger size feel like an afterthought--you simply take the side off and replace it with a longer rail, the Oeuf design is a sleek quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, simple and will look great in any nursery. Additionally, you can combine it with an equivalence trundle bed and dresser for an even more seamless look.
The crib is larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could take up more square footage of your nursery than some of the less expensive options However, it's a gorgeous piece that will stand the test of time. It's easy to set up and durable, even for parents who aren't handy. It also has three different mattress heights you can adjust which means you can start your child in a low position that's easy for caregivers to lift and then raise as they get older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib that can fit in a formal nursery. It is also simple to put together, and comes with a set of toddler conversion rails. This eliminates the need to buy them separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer the best of both worlds, providing a safe and secure sleeping environment for your child while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Other cribs can contain harmful emissions and chemicals, and toxic substances like PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the environmental impact. They are simple to put together or convert, and some have a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can help save space.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be converted into an infant bed or a full-sized bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand frequent use and clean. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are made of non-toxic organic materials with a low-VOC coating.
An excellent example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic finishes or parts. It is Greenguard Certified for low chemical emissions and it meets all safety standards. It is a great option for parents looking for an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and is environmentally friendly.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at a reasonable price. The sturdy slats of the crib are made of high-quality hardwood and its non-toxic finish is Greenguard Gold certified for low chemical emissions. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be added to the side of the crib to create a gentle incline for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the primary priority when choosing a crib. Make sure the crib is well-constructed and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and fittings that are securely fitted. Also, ensure that it meets current CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) guidelines: less than 2.375 inches of space between the slats (that's approximately the size of a soda can), no decorative cutout designs on the footboard or headboard and corner posts that are flush with end panels or very tall--anything between can pose an opportunity for strangulation.
Keep all toys away from the crib, as they can pose the risk of choking or suffocation. If you want to use a baby monitor, choose one with a clear line of sight so that it doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are kept away from your baby's reach and securely attached. Never place pillows, blankets or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to the risk of suffocation or choke, and can be pushed or kicked by your child.
Beware of cribs that are older because they may have outdated features that can lead to injury. Even if a crib is in excellent condition, the slats may be too wide, or they might be missing hardware. Old cribs can also be painted with lead or unsafe screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur has a wide range of features at a great price, but it might be too much for those who want a simple design. Other options, such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 or the DaVinci Carter's Colby 4-in-1, sport the same style, but without all the bells and whistles.