Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be secure and durable. Make sure you choose a solid crib and slats that are less than 2.4 inches apart.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. It has four different mattress heights and is made of renewable and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It comes with a toddler's rail.
1. Sturdy
It is crucial that the crib is sturdy because a baby will spend a lot of his or her time in it. Find cribs that meet the safety standards and regulations established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and focus on the structural integrity of the crib. Also, consider avoiding older cribs that may have loose parts or rough areas that could harm your baby.
Avoid cribs with slats too close together, as this can cause suffocation. Also, you should look for a crib that does not have decorative cut-outs or drop sides, as these could pose a hazard to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they can impact your baby's breathing and sleep. 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 build-up in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it fulfills the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't include exposed hardware that could get stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks great in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't have an infant rail and does not have the same amount of slats as other cribs on this list.
Another crib that we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than other options on this list, however it has a sleek design and meets almost all our requirements, such as being incredibly easy to put together. It has just three mattress height levels which is less than some other cribs. However, it could be a better option in the event that you plan to let your baby use the crib for a few years and wish to have it last longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Unlike some larger cribs, many modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to assemble. Most are ready to use right out of the package, and require only 30 minutes to put together using the included tools. Some even have built-in toddler bed conversion kit which will save you the cost and hassle of purchasing separate pieces later.
You should always make sure that the crib is properly assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could snag babies. You should also pay attention to the quality of hardware, particularly screws and bolts. Be sure to tighten them up securely, but not too much because this could cause the wood to break or strip threads. Look for solid wood cribs as it is believed to be safer than metal.
If you're considering a crib that requires an assembly, search for one with simple and straightforward instructions. affordable cots provide videos that provide instruction which can be useful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture components. A good guide will also include a list of necessary supplies, such as screws and washers.
Beyond the design, size is a different factor to consider. A crib must be large enough to accommodate your child but not too big that it cannot fit through a standard opening. Also, be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs might not meet the latest safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a fantastic option for those looking for a modern, sleek crib. It is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand Pinewood and has three different mattress settings. It is more exposed to the elements than the other choices on this list, though, and some users have complained that it was more difficult to set up than necessary because of mislabeled parts and confusing instructions.
3. Convertible
As opposed to car seats and strollers cribs aren't equipped with a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and how long the crib lasts. If you're looking for a crib that can last until the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a full-size bed or daybed. This will help save space and money, making it easier to change the mattress as your baby grows.
While most cribs that transform into a bed of a larger size feel 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 is GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and will look great in any nursery. You can also combine it with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
This crib is a little larger than the other cribs in our tests. It could occupy more square footage of your nursery than some of the other cribs however, it's a stunning piece that can stand the test of time. It's easy to assemble and durable even for parents who aren't skilled. It also has three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you begin your baby in a low position which is easy for caregivers and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
This crib that converts to a convertible is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents seeking a crib that will be a part of a formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with toddler conversion rails. This makes it unnecessary to purchase the rails separately. The only drawback is that it does have some exposed hardware, which could be an issue for some.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer a win-win scenario, providing an environment that is safe for your baby while encouraging 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 typically made from solid wood or sustainable and renewable materials, and a lot of them are designed to reduce the impact on the environment. They are typically easy to build and convert, and a few include an adjustable dresser or changing tray attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to grow with your child, converting to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They could also include additional features, such as a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand frequent use and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs for babies are constructed of non-toxic organic materials with low-VOC coatings.
A fantastic example of an eco-friendly crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed from sustainable birchwood and 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 looking for an eco-friendly crib with modern, sleek design and is easy to clean.
Namesake is another option, offering a timeless design and high-quality construction at a reasonable cost. 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 comes with an reflux foot that can be affixed to the side to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
When selecting a crib, safety should be the top priority. Make sure the crib is well-built and sturdy, with secure hardware and firmly fitted fittings. Make sure it is in compliance with the current CPSC guidelines. This includes: less than 2.375 inches between the slats, no ornamental cutouts in the headboard or footboard and corner posts that are either in line with the ends of the crib or very tall. best infant cribs that is in between poses a risk of strangulation.
Likewise, keep all toys out of the crib because they could pose choking and suffocation hazards. If you're considering using baby monitors, select one that has a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that any cords are out of your child's reach and are securely attached. Don't place any blankets, pillows or positioners inside the crib. These can lead to dangers of suffocation and choke and could be pushed or kicked by your child.
Do not use cribs that are old, as they could have outdated features that can cause injury. Even if the crib is in excellent condition, it could have slats which are too wide or be missing some hardware. Old cribs can also be painted with lead or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur comes with a variety of features at a low price, but it could be too much for people who want a simple design. Other options such as the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 offer a similar design but without the bells and whistles.