Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib, you want it to be secure and durable. You should look for sturdy construction and slats less than 2.4 inches apart.
One of our most favored choices is the Stokke Sleepi Crib. It includes four mattress heights and is made of sustainable and renewable New Zealand Pinewood. It also includes an infant rail.
1. Sturdy
It's important that the crib is strong since a baby will spend most of his or her time in it. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with the safety standards and regulations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Product Safety Commission and emphasize the structural integrity of the crib. Also, you should avoid cribs with older models that could have loose parts or rough spots that could harm your child.
Avoid cribs that have slats that are too close to each other, since this can cause the child to suffocate. Look for a crib without decorative cutouts or drop-sides as these features may be dangerous to your child.
Also, avoid finishes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they could affect your baby's breathing and sleep. Select a crib certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. Choose a crib that has a small footprint to minimize space and dust accumulation in your nursery.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a solid crib, since it meets the majority of our criteria. It is easy to clean and doesn't have exposed hardware that could be stuck on toys or clothing. It also looks beautiful in all rooms. The only drawback is that it doesn't include a toddler rail or as many slats as other cribs on this list.
Stork Craft Tuscany is another crib we would recommend. It's a bit more costly than the other cribs on this list, but it's sleek and stylish and is a perfect fit for our requirements, such as being extremely easy to assemble. It also has only three mattress heights, which is less than some other cribs. However, it's a good choice if you're planning to have your child use the crib for a while and would like it to last for longer.
2. Easy to Assemble
Modern mini cribs don't require a full day of assembly unlike some of the larger cribs. They're usually ready for use straight from the box, and require only 30 minutes to put together using the tools included. Some come with a built-in toddler bed conversion kit that spares you from the need to purchase separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't any gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware including screws and bolts. Make sure you tighten them properly, but not too much because this could cause the wood to break or strip threads. Also consider a solid-wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
Look for cribs that have simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers offer videos that provide instruction that can be helpful for those who may not be accustomed to working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list of supplies, like washers and screws.
The size of the crib is also important. A crib should be large enough for your baby but not too big that it will not fit through the standard doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs as older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3 in 1 is a great option for parents looking for a modern and sleek crib. It has three different mattress heights and is constructed of sturdy and sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It has more exposed metal hardware than other choices on the market. Some customers also complained that the instructions and mislabeled pieces made it more difficult to assemble.
3. Convertible
If you're looking for a crib which can last through toddlerhood and beyond, think about one that can be converted into an adult-sized bed or a daybed. If you're seeking a crib that will last into the age of three and beyond, think about purchasing one that converts into a bed that is full size or a daybed. This will reduce your costs and space, and 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 a gimmick--you just take off the side and replace it with a larger rail--Oeuf designed a stylish quality crib that can be transformed into a bed frame. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified minimal and looks nice in almost every nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a seamless design.
This crib is a little more substantial than others in our tests. It may use up more space in your nursery than some of the smaller options, but it's a beautiful piece that can stand the test of time. Parents have praised it as sturdy and easy to put together, even for those who aren't skilled. It also comes with three adjustable mattress heights that means you can begin your baby in a low position which is easy for parents to lift and raise as they get older.
This convertible crib is more traditional than the other two cribs on this list. It's ideal for parents who are looking for a crib to fit into the formal nursery. It is also simple to set up and comes with a set toddler conversion rails. This means that you don't have to purchase rails separately. It does feature exposed metal hardware, which may be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs are a win-win situation. They offer a safe and secure sleeping space for your child, while also promoting sustainable environmental practices. Some cribs are contaminated with harmful chemicals and emissions and toxins such as PVC, MDF, phthalate and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are constructed of solid wood, sustainable and renewable materials and have simple designs. They are easy to assemble or convert, and some include a dresser or changing tray built-in. This can save space.
Some brands make eco-friendly cribs designed to adapt to your child's needs, converting to an infant bed, daybed or a full-size bed. They may also have additional features, like a built-in changing table, or storage compartments. They should be durable and sturdy to withstand the rigors of daily usage and cleaning. The best eco-friendly cribs are constructed from organic, non-toxic materials and have a low-VOC finish.
A great example of a green crib is the Bloom Alma crib. The model is constructed 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 an excellent choice for parents who want an elegant crib design that is easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.
Namesake is another option, with a timeless design and high-quality construction at a low cost. The sturdy slats that are constructed of high-quality wood, are Greenguard Gold certified to have low emissions of chemicals. The crib also features an optional reflux leg that can be affixed to the side of the crib to create a gentle slope for babies suffering from reflux.
5. Safety First
When you are choosing a crib safety should be your top priority. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy, equipped with secure hardware and well-fitting fittings. Also, make sure best crib newborn 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) There should be no cutouts or decorative designs in the footboard or headboard, and corner posts that are flush with 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 can pose dangers of choking or even suffocation. Select a monitor for your baby that has a clear line-of-sight to ensure it does not hinder your view. Also, ensure that all cords are out of the reach of your child and are securely connected. Never place pillows, blankets or even positioners in the crib. These can lead to the risk of suffocation or choke and could be pushed or kicked by your child.
Also, avoid using old cribs because they could have construction elements that are outdated and could result in injuries. Even if the crib appears in excellent condition, it may have slats which are too wide or may be missing hardware. Old cribs could also have lead-based paint or loose, dangerous screws and bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is an excellent value, but might be too expensive for those who prefer a minimalist design. Other options, like the Dream On Me Ashton 4-in-1 and the Carter's by DaVinci Colby 4-in-1, sport similar styles, but with less bells and whistles.