Top 5 Recommended Cribs
When you purchase a crib you want it to be secure and sturdy. Look for solid wood construction and slat spacing under 2.4 inches wide.
Stokke Sleepi Crib is one of our most favored. 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
The majority of a baby's time is spent in their time in their crib, so it is important to choose a crib that's sturdy enough. Make sure that the crib you choose is in compliance with safety regulations and standards set by the American Academy of Pediatrics and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which are focused on structural integrity. Also, you should avoid older cribs that might have loose parts or rough areas that could cause harm to your baby.
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 since these options could be dangerous for your child.
Avoid finishes that contain volatile compounds (VOCs) because they may affect your baby’s breathing and sleep. Select a crib that is certified by Greenguard Gold that uses non-toxic materials. It's also beneficial to select a crib that has a small footprint, since it can reduce the space in your nursery and minimize dust accumulation.
The DaVinci Kalani is a great choice for a 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 great in all rooms. The only drawbacks are that it doesn't come with a toddler rail and it doesn't have the same number of slat levels as some other cribs on this list.
Another crib we recommend is the Stork Craft Tuscany. It's more expensive than the other cribs on this list, but it fulfills all our criteria and is easy to put together. It has only three levels of mattress, which is fewer than other cribs. However, if you intend to use the crib for a long time, it may be more suitable for your needs.
2. Easy to Assemble
Contrary to some of the larger cribs, the majority of modern mini cribs don't require a whole day to put together. 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 that saves you from having to buy separate pieces.
You should always make sure that the crib is well-assembled and that there aren't gaps or rough surfaces that could catch a baby. Be aware of the quality and quantity of the hardware, especially bolts and screws. Make sure they're securely tightened however, don't over-tighten them, which could cause broken threads or wood cracks. Also look for a solid wood crib, which is considered safer than metal.
Find cribs that come with simple and clear instructions. Some manufacturers provide a video tutorial for those who are not familiar with working with furniture pieces. A good guide should also include a list with the necessary supplies, like screws and washers.
Beyond the design, size is a different consideration. A crib should be big enough for your baby but not so large that it won't fit through an ordinary doorway. Be wary of using hand-me-downs because older cribs may not be up to current safety standards.
The Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 is a great choice for those looking for an elegant, modern crib. It has three mattress height settings and is constructed of sturdy, sustainable New Zealand pinewood. It is more exposed to the elements than the other choices on this list, however, some users found it more complicated to assemble than needed because of mislabeled parts and unclear instructions.
3. online cots
In contrast to car seats and strollers, cribs don't have a lot of "features." However this doesn't mean that parents shouldn't be thinking about other aspects like design, cost and the length of time the crib lasts. Consider an adjustable crib if you would like a crib that will last long into the age of toddlerhood. This will help you save money and space, and make it easier to change the mattress as your child grows.
While most cribs which transform into full-size beds are an afterthought, you simply remove the side and replace it by a wider rail. Oeuf has created a stylish crib that can be turned into bed frames. It's GREENGUARD Gold-certified, minimal and looks great in any nursery. It can also be bundled with matching trundle beds and dressers to create a cohesive look.
The crib is much more sturdy than other cribs in our tests. It may take up more space in your nursery, but it will last for a long time. It's simple to put together and sturdy, even for parents who aren't handy. It also features three adjustable mattress heights. This lets you start your child in a low position, which is easy for parents to manage and then raise the mattress as they grow older.
The convertible crib is more traditional than the other cribs on this list. It's perfect for parents looking for a crib to fit in the formal nursery. It's also simple to assemble and comes with a set of toddler-sized conversion rails, eliminating the need to buy these separately. It does include exposed metal hardware, which could be a problem for some people.
4. Eco-Friendly
Eco-friendly cribs offer a win-win scenario, providing a safe sleep environment for your child while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices. They are free of harmful chemicals and emissions that are found in other cribs, and also harmful substances such as PVC, phthalate MDF, and lead. Eco-friendly cribs are generally made of solid wood or renewable and sustainable materials, and a lot of them are minimalist in design to reduce the environmental impact. They are generally simple to put together and change, and some have a changing tray or dresser attached to them, which can free up space in the nursery.
Certain brands have eco-friendly cribs which can be transformed into a toddler bed or full-size bed. They might also come with additional features, such as an integrated changing table or storage compartments. They should be durable and strong enough to withstand repeated usage and cleaning. The most eco-friendly cribs are made of organic and non-toxic materials. They also come with a low-VOC finish.
A fantastic example of a crib that is eco-friendly is the Bloom Alma crib. It is made from sustainable birchwood and does not contain toxic components or finishes. It is Greenguard Certified and meets all safety standards. It is a great choice for parents who are looking for an eco-friendly crib that has an elegant, modern design and is easy to clean.
Another alternative is the Namesake crib, which offers an elegant design and top-quality construction at an affordable price. The sturdy slats are constructed 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 of the crib to create an easy slope for babies with reflux.
5. Safety First
Safety should be the top priority when selecting the crib. Make sure that the crib is well-built and sturdy with firmly-fitted and sturdy hardware. Also, make sure it meets 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 end panels or very tall--anything between can pose the risk of strangulation.
Be sure to keep all toys out of the crib, as they can pose choking or suffocation risks. If you want to use baby monitors, select one with a clear line of sight that doesn't block your view. Also, make sure that all cords are not within reach of your child and securely connected. Do not place blankets, pillows, or positioners inside the crib. These items could pose the risk of choking or suffocation and could be thrown off by your infant or dragged down by older siblings.
Also, avoid using old cribs since they could have outdated construction features that could cause injuries. Even if a crib is in good condition, the slats might be too wide or may be missing hardware. Additionally, old cribs may have paint that contains lead or have loose, dangerous screws or bolts.
The Stork Craft Evolur is a great value, but could be too much for those who prefer a minimal design. Other options like the Dream On Me Ashton 4 in 1 or the DaVinci Collby by Carter 4-in 1 have a similar style but less bells & whistles.